2019 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins MPG: Real-World Fuel Economy

by Alex Braham 57 views

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the fuel economy of the 2019 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins. If you're considering buying this beast of a truck, or already own one, you're probably curious about what kind of mileage you can expect. So, buckle up and let's get into the details.

Understanding the 2019 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins MPG

The 2019 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its impressive towing capacity and robust performance. The heart of this machine is the legendary Cummins diesel engine, which offers a blend of power and, surprisingly, decent fuel efficiency for its class. However, it's essential to understand that MPG figures for heavy-duty trucks like the Ram 2500 Cummins aren't directly comparable to those of smaller, lighter vehicles. Several factors influence the actual fuel economy you'll experience, and it's crucial to consider these when evaluating whether this truck fits your needs.

First off, let's talk about the engine itself. The Cummins 6.7-liter inline-six turbodiesel is engineered to deliver massive torque, which is what makes it so capable for towing and hauling. This engine produces around 370 horsepower and a whopping 850 lb-ft of torque in its standard configuration. However, all that power comes at a cost. Diesel engines, while generally more fuel-efficient than gasoline engines under heavy load, still consume a significant amount of fuel, especially in a vehicle as large as the Ram 2500.

Another critical factor affecting MPG is the truck's configuration. The Ram 2500 comes in various cab sizes (regular, crew, and mega cab), bed lengths (6'4" and 8'), and drivetrain options (4x2 and 4x4). Each of these variations impacts the truck's weight and aerodynamics, which in turn affects fuel economy. For example, a heavier crew cab 4x4 model will typically have lower MPG figures compared to a lighter regular cab 4x2 version. Additionally, the rear axle ratio plays a role; a higher ratio might improve towing performance but could reduce fuel efficiency.

Then there's the driving style and conditions to consider. If you have a lead foot and enjoy accelerating quickly, or if you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic, your MPG will suffer. Conversely, if you adopt a more conservative driving style and spend most of your time on the highway at a steady speed, you'll likely see better fuel economy. The terrain you drive on also makes a difference; hilly or mountainous areas will generally result in lower MPG compared to flat, open roads. Finally, the use of accessories such as air conditioning or four-wheel drive can also impact fuel consumption.

Real-World MPG Expectations

So, what kind of MPG can you realistically expect from a 2019 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins? Official EPA fuel economy ratings aren't available for heavy-duty trucks like the Ram 2500, as they fall outside the scope of EPA testing. However, numerous real-world tests and owner reports provide a good indication of what to expect.

In general, most owners report getting around 14-18 MPG in the city and 18-22 MPG on the highway. These figures can vary significantly based on the factors mentioned above. For example, if you're primarily using your truck for towing or hauling heavy loads, you might see MPG drop to the lower end of that range, or even below. On the other hand, if you're driving unloaded on the highway with a light foot, you might be able to achieve MPG figures closer to the upper end.

It's also worth noting that some owners have reported seeing even better MPG figures after performing certain modifications or adjustments to their trucks. These can include things like installing a cold air intake, using a fuel additive, or adjusting the tire pressure. However, it's essential to research any modifications carefully to ensure they won't negatively impact your truck's performance or reliability.

Here’s a breakdown based on common driving conditions:

  • City Driving: Expect around 14-18 MPG. Stop-and-go traffic and lower speeds will generally decrease fuel efficiency.
  • Highway Driving: You might see 18-22 MPG on the highway, especially if you maintain a steady speed and avoid aggressive acceleration.
  • Towing: Towing significantly impacts MPG. Depending on the weight of the load, expect anywhere from 8-14 MPG.

Factors Affecting Fuel Economy

Understanding the factors that influence the fuel economy of your 2019 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins is crucial for optimizing its performance and minimizing fuel costs. Here's a detailed look at the key elements at play:

  1. Driving Habits:
    • Aggressive Acceleration and Braking: Aggressive driving habits are among the most significant contributors to poor fuel economy. Rapid acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed to improve MPG. Smooth, gradual acceleration and deceleration can make a noticeable difference.
    • Idling: Excessive idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute, it's generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine.
    • Speed: High speeds increase wind resistance and require more power to maintain, leading to decreased fuel economy. Adhering to posted speed limits and using cruise control on the highway can help optimize MPG.
  2. Vehicle Maintenance:
    • Tire Pressure: Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check and maintain the recommended tire pressure regularly. Refer to the sticker on your driver's side doorjamb or your owner's manual for the correct pressure.
    • Air Filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, which can decrease performance and fuel economy. Replace the air filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
    • Engine Oil: Using the correct grade of engine oil and changing it regularly is essential for maintaining optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. Refer to your owner's manual for the recommended oil type and service intervals.
  3. Environmental Conditions:
    • Temperature: Extreme temperatures can affect fuel economy. Cold weather increases engine friction and requires more fuel for warm-up, while hot weather can increase the use of air conditioning, which also consumes fuel.
    • Terrain: Hilly or mountainous terrain requires more power to climb, resulting in lower fuel economy compared to flat terrain. Driving in areas with frequent elevation changes will generally decrease MPG.
    • Wind: Strong winds can increase aerodynamic drag, which reduces fuel efficiency, especially at highway speeds. Headwinds have a more significant impact than tailwinds.
  4. Vehicle Load and Towing:
    • Weight: Excess weight in the vehicle increases the amount of energy required to accelerate and maintain speed, leading to decreased fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the truck bed and cabin.
    • Towing: Towing heavy loads significantly reduces fuel economy. The added weight and aerodynamic drag require much more power from the engine. Reduce your speed and increase following distance when towing to improve safety and fuel efficiency.
  5. Fuel Quality:
    • Diesel Fuel: Using high-quality diesel fuel can help maintain optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. Some diesel fuels contain additives that improve combustion and reduce emissions.
  6. Modifications and Accessories:
    • Lift Kits and Oversized Tires: Installing lift kits and oversized tires can significantly decrease fuel economy by increasing aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance.
    • Roof Racks and Cargo Carriers: Using roof racks and cargo carriers increases aerodynamic drag, which reduces fuel efficiency, especially at highway speeds. Remove them when not in use.
    • Performance Enhancements: While some performance enhancements may improve power, they can also negatively impact fuel economy if not properly tuned or used responsibly.

Tips to Improve Your 2019 Ram 2500 Cummins MPG

Alright, so you're not thrilled with your current MPG? Don't sweat it! Here are some actionable tips to help you squeeze more miles out of every gallon:

  • Drive Smart: Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking. Smooth and steady wins the race, and it definitely wins when it comes to fuel efficiency.
  • Maintain Your Truck: Keep your tires properly inflated, change your oil regularly, and replace your air filter when needed. A well-maintained truck is a happy and efficient truck.
  • Lighten the Load: Remove any unnecessary weight from your truck. Every pound counts, especially when you're trying to save fuel.
  • Minimize Idling: Avoid idling for extended periods. If you're going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine.
  • Use Cruise Control: Engage cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and optimize fuel efficiency.
  • Monitor Your MPG: Keep track of your fuel economy to identify any changes or issues. There are many apps and tools available to help you monitor your MPG.

Conclusion

The 2019 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins is a powerful and capable truck, but it's essential to have realistic expectations about its fuel economy. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient vehicle on the road, it offers a good balance of power and efficiency for its class. By understanding the factors that affect MPG and implementing the tips above, you can optimize your truck's fuel economy and save money at the pump. So, go out there and enjoy your Ram 2500, knowing you're getting the most out of every gallon!