Consumer Reports Confirms Ram EcoDiesel's Top Pickup-Truck Economy Status

A best-in-class fuel economy of 20 mpg overall and 27 mpg highway helped Ram 1500 EcoDiesel top the Consumer Reports ratings followed by the Ram 1500 V8 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT

Consumer Reports
Ram_1500_ecodiesel_pickup_truck

The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel climbed to the top of Consumer Reports’ full-size pickup truck ratings with an impressive performance in the organization’s fuel economy tests.

The EcoDiesel (82 point overall road test score) turned in a best-in-class fuel economy of 20 mpg overall and 27 mpg on the highway, to help it score better than the previously tested Ram 1500 V8 (81) regular gas version and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT (80).

“These are about the same fuel-economy numbers that we typically see in a mid-sized SUV. The Ram is currently the only truck to offer turbo-diesel technology. It will be interesting to see what impact it will have on the half-ton truck market,” said Jake Fisher, director of automotive testing for Consumer Reports. 

Consumer Reports engineers found the EcoDiesel to be as luxurious and refined as the previously tested V8 version. The EcoDiesel remains fully capable of doing dirty work when duty calls. A unique coil-spring rear suspension gives it a smooth ride, and the interior is whisper-quiet.

Consumer Reports noted some telltale diesel clatter at idle and low speeds, but the engine noise is well-hushed when cruising. Some buyers may like hearing the distinctive diesel engine note. The continued interior and powertrain improvements make the Ram a particularly well-rounded choice for most consumers.

(more on Consumer Reports full-size pickup truck ratings...)

Latest