Why It Matters
The current Ram 1500 has been on the market since 2009 with its only major update coming in 2013. Despite it being the oldest pickup from the Big Three, the Ram consistently rivals General Motors’ half-ton pickups, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500. Ford, of course, continues to lead sales thanks to its massive lineup of trucks included in its F-Series line.
2016 Chevrolet Silverado
2017 GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate
The Ram currently comes with three engines options: the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6, the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8, and the (currently being investigated by the EPA and therefore on hold) 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6. While the powertrain lineup is competitive, the Ram 1500 lacks a range-topping powerplant to compete with GM’s 420-horsepower, 6.2-liter V-8 and more fuel-efficient yet powerful gasoline engines available in Ford’s EcoBoost lineup. Updating its powertrain would certainly help Ram better compete with its cross-town rivals.
Ram does carry the leadership baton in several areas, though. For one, its multi-link, coil-spring rear suspension and available air-ride system provide the smoothest driving experience in the half-ton segment, especially when unloaded. Ram also boasts its exclusive RamBox cargo bed. The weather-tight, insulated, illuminated, partitioned, and electronically locking storage boxes seamlessly integrate into the truck’s aesthetics while providing tons of added utility.
Overall, the Ram 1500 pickup continues to blaze off dealership lots, but improvements can certainly be made. We’re excited to see what the future holds for Ram. And as always, any breaking news will be covered right here at TopSpeed.com.
References
Read our speculative review of the 2019 Ram 1500.
Source: Automotive News