In an unexpected twist of economics, a V-6 pickup can now cost more to buy than one equipped with a larger V-8 engine. Such is the case with the 2014 Ram 1500 Tradesman, whose prices start at $24,610 when equipped with a standard 3.6-liter V-6 engine. Specify an optional 5.7-liter V-8 HEMI and the price drops by $640.
Traditionally, pickup-truck buyers viewed a V-8 engine—not a V-6—as the premium choice. However, national fuel costs flirting with $4 per gallon and a federal mandate for automakers to achieve an average fuel economy of 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025 have truck makers offering more fuel-efficient V-6 engines. Fleet owners stand to save operating costs from the broader power choices but will need to match trucks carefully to the desired application, suppliers advise.