Ram 1500 Classic 4WD
18 MPG The 2024 Ram 1500 Classic 4WD is EPA-rated at 18 MPG combined (15.5 city / 21.5 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 833 gallons, $2667 a year in fuel, or $0.178 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2019–2024 run it averages 18.2 MPG, falling by 1.3 MPG over 6 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.139 | $1389 | $2083 | $2778 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.167 | $1667 | $2500 | $3333 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.178 | $1778 | $2667 | $3556 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.194 | $1944 | $2917 | $3889 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.222 | $2222 | $3333 | $4444 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.250 | $2500 | $3750 | $5000 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.278 | $2778 | $4167 | $5556 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 18 MPG | 15.5 | 21.5 | $3750 | 501 | 2 |
| 2023 | 18 MPG | 15.5 | 21.5 | $3750 | 501 | 2 |
| 2022 | 18 MPG | 15.5 | 22 | $3750 | 501 | 2 |
| 2021 | 18 MPG | 15.5 | 22 | $3750 | 500 | 2 |
| 2020 | 18 MPG | 15.5 | 22 | $3750 | 501 | 2 |
| 2019 | 19.3 MPG | 16.7 | 23.7 | $3683 | 489 | 3 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 33 standard pickup trucks 4wd models tracked here, the Ram 1500 Classic 4WD ranks 10 on current figures, against a class average of 17.1 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: GMC Sierra 4WD (18.5), Chevrolet Silverado 4WD (19), Ford F150 Pickup 4WD FFV (19), Jeep Gladiator 4WD (19), Toyota Tundra 4WD (19).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 501 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 7.5 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Ram 1500 Classic 4WD get?
The 2024 Ram 1500 Classic 4WD is rated at 18 MPG combined by the EPA — 15.5 city and 21.5 highway. Across all 6 model years in the database it averages 18.2 MPG, ranging from 17 to 22 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Ram 1500 Classic 4WD cost in fuel per year?
At 18 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 833 gallons — roughly $2667 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.178 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2024 model is $3750.
Has the Ram 1500 Classic 4WD become more efficient over time?
No — it has actually gone backwards, from 19.3 MPG in 2019 to 18 in 2024. That usually reflects the model growing heavier, more powerful, or moving upmarket rather than the engineering getting worse.
Is the Ram 1500 Classic 4WD efficient for its class?
It ranks 10 of 33 in the Standard Pickup Trucks 4WD class on current figures, against a class average of 17.1 MPG. That is 0.9 better than typical for the class.
Compare with similar models
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.