Introduction
Stellantis, the automotive manufacturer, has replaced the beloved 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine in some of its iconic models with the new 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged Hurricane inline-six engine. While the new engine offers improved power and performance, it surprisingly falls short in fuel efficiency compared to the older V8.
New Engine, Lower MPG
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently unveiled the official fuel economy ratings for the 2025 Ram 1500 lineup, which includes models with different engine options, such as a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 mild-hybrid, a standard-output Hurricane I6, and a high-output Hurricane I6. Despite having fewer cylinders and smaller displacement, the high-output Hurricane I6 consumes more fuel than the older V8 across city, highway, and combined driving cycles.
Fuel Efficiency Figures
The high-output Hurricane I6, boasting 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque, returns 15 mpg in the city, 21 mpg on the highway, and 17 mpg combined—less efficient than the previous V8. Additionally, this engine necessitates 91-octane fuel, increasing operational costs. However, it offers significantly more power compared to the old V8.
The Standard-Output Engine
Even the standard-output Hurricane I6 offers only marginally better fuel efficiency than the V8. With ratings of 17 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 19 mpg combined, it surpasses the V8 on the highway but lags behind in city driving. The EPA estimates that the standard-output I6 can save $2,000 in fuel costs over five years versus the V8 while still delivering 420 hp and 469 lb-ft of torque. Conversely, the high-output I6 will incur an additional $3,500 in fuel expenses over five years compared to the V8.
Consumer Preference
Most Ram owners are likely to opt for the standard-output I6, given its ample power for truck tasks and potential long-term fuel savings. The high-output engine is reserved for top-tier trim levels, where customers prioritize performance over fuel efficiency.
Conclusion
The new Hurricane I6 engine from Stellantis offers enhanced power and performance over the older V8; however, its thirst for fuel is a trade-off that consumers need to consider. While the I6 excels in speed, towing, and hauling capabilities, its fuel efficiency falls short, illustrating the balance between emissions reduction and cost optimization in vehicle design.
FAQs
Q: Are there any benefits to choosing the high-output Hurricane I6 despite its lower fuel efficiency?
A: Yes, the high-output I6 provides significantly more power than the older V8, catering to consumers seeking top-tier performance in their vehicles.
Q: Will the standard-output Hurricane I6 be a cost-effective choice in the long run?
A: According to EPA estimates, the standard-output I6 can save consumers $2,000 in fuel costs over five years compared to the V8, making it a favorable option for those looking to balance power and efficiency.
Q: Which trim levels offer the high-output Hurricane I6 engine?
A: The high-output engine is available in the pricier trim levels of the Ram 1500, including Limited, Limited Longhorn, and Tungsten, catering to customers who prioritize performance and are willing to accept higher fuel costs.
By balancing power and efficiency, Stellantis aims to provide consumers with a range of options tailored to their preferences and needs in the ever-evolving automotive market.
