The 2024 Ram 1500 is the probably last model-year of the “DS” body Ram Classic, and the pricier “DT” body series as well. It is also almost certainly the final Ram 1500 to have the 5.7 liter Hemi V8, though the Pentastar Six is to continue.
Big pickups have come a long way in fuel economy, but the 2025 Ram 1500 promises to make them even more efficient. Still, those who demand a V8, even at the cost of some power and efficiency, may want to buy a ‘24.
The 5.7 Hemi requires midgrade fuel (89 octane); fuel economy is rated at 18 city and 23 highway with rear drive, 22 with four wheel drive. V6 models have better mileage, with 20 city (RWD) and 26 mpg highway for the HFE, 25 mpg for the standard rear drive model. The 4xe turns in 19/24 ratings.
The worst economy, still better than the old Viper-powered Ram SRT-10, is the immensely powerful Ram 1500 TRX, which comes in four wheel drive and takes premium. It gets a 1960s-style 10 mpg city, 14 highway, but it also turns in sports-car acceleration times.
Annual cost, assuming 15,000 miles per year, 55% “city” traffic, and $3.47/gallon gasoline ($4.05/gallon midgrade, $4.40 premium), is $2,250 for the Ram 1500 HFE. Going to the normal 1500 adds $100, and four wheel drive adds another $150. The Hemi costs $3,050 per year with rear drive, $3,200 with 4xe; and the Ram TRX costs $5,500 per year, which is probably close to its annual insurance for many drivers.
