RAM TRUCKS

Diesel Delight: Ram 1500 Rebel

June 30, 2020 by admin Leave a Comment

We get behind the wheel of a diesel-powered Ram 1500.

The 2020 Ram 1500 comes in two cab configurations and offers three engine choices.

All-new for 2019, the 2020 and fifth-generation Ram 1500 returns with new or updated trim and options packages. The big news is that the available turbo-diesel engine has more horsepower, torque, and towing capacity that rivals the optional V8 gas engine. Importantly, the diesel model remains the most efficient full-size pickup truck on the market. Happily, a 1500 Rebel with the turbo-diesel was supplied by Ram for a week’s worth of driving fun.

2020 Ram 1500 Review

Ram offers the 2020 1500 in seven trims. It is available in Quad and Crew Cab styles, with standard rear-wheel drive and available four-wheel drive. The base Quad Cab model has a six-foot-four-inch bed and is priced from $32,145 to $45,400. The roomy Crew Cab with a five-foot-seven-inch bed starts at $34,945 and reaches $53,195. Add $3,500 for four-wheel drive and another $1,695 for the destination fee. Our Crew Cab Rebel model with the diesel engine option and equipped with various package upgrades pushed this model past $70,000.

Exterior

The current-generation Ram 1500 has lost its big-rig look, which was a design common to the model line dating to the mid-1990s. Think “Peterbilt” and you understand. Although the 1500 trades those burly looks away for a sleeker tapestry, it remains an imposing canvas nonetheless.

You can’t find a regular cab 1500 model these days, but that’s no surprise. The take rate was under 5 percent and that’s too low to justify building one. Instead, customers have a choice of two four-door options – Quad and Crew Cabs. Both offer four hinged doors with the former’s rear doors about 75 percent the size of the latter.

Like the atypical pickup truck, the Ram has slab sides. Beyond front fascia styling, the look is nearly identical. Ram, though, gives customers choices on what to do with their trucks, by offering various package upgrades, including chrome bumpers and grille surround, painted aluminum wheels, and a sport hood. Wheel choices include 17-, 18-, 20-, and 22-inch designs. Special badging, brush guards, and decaling offer distinction. And like other models in this class, customization is the key for many customers.

Interior

The Chrysler Corporation has a history of supplying premium and luxury models, something that has continued under an earlier tie-up with Daimler and the current one with Fiat. Although the Chrysler brand itself cannot be considered a luxury brand, the eponymous marque has a history of supplying well-appointed vehicles. This trend sometimes spreads to the company’s other North America brands.

Ram, on the other hand, is new to the luxury game. Separated from Dodge in 2011, the Ram truck brand has attempted to distinguish itself by raising interior quality. Happily, the fifth-generation 1500 nails it, especially on the upper trim models where soft-touch materials, real hides, and chrome trim dominate. And they’re not just placed haphazardly – Ram took special care to consider this design without tempering with its mission as a work or recreational truck.

Luxury appointments aside, the Ram excels in all things storage. Here, you’ll find a large, configurable center console, roomy in-floor bins, and locking Ram Box compartments built into the side of the bed. We know pickup truck owners put an emphasis on payload and towing, but the Ram sets the mark for storage, making this model a compelling choice.

Safety

Every trim comes with the required rearview camera. This one includes dynamic guidelines with centerline detection. Available on the three top trims is a surround-view camera system.

If you want blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-path detection and trailer detection, it is available on all trims. Other driver-assist features include forward collision mitigation (also known as adaptive emergency braking) and lane departure warning. Along with parallel and perpendicular part assist, this trio of safety features comes bundled in the Advanced Safety Group Package.

Technology

All Tradesmen, HFE, Big Horn/Lone Star, and Rebel trims come with a standard 5-inch color display. It’s too small for our tastes and that’s why the available 8.4-inch screen is simply the better choice.

But there is also available a 12-inch screen available in the Laramie Longhorn and Limited or at least that’s how Ram lists it. Our Rebel had the 12-inch screen, even though it’s not listed in the press material.

Huge in any model, the largest of the Ram’s three screens is absolutely stunning. It not only is simple to read, but it is easy to use – the Uconnect system is one of our favorites. We like it more than Ford’s with the GM duo coming in second.

Move up through the trim ranks and Ram adds satellite radio, HD Radio, and multiple USB ports scattered throughout the cabin. A 6-speaker audio system is standard, while some models offer 9 or 10 speakers. On the top tier, a 19-speaker audio system is available. Other features optional include a wireless charging pad.

Performance

Ram offers three engine choices or four if you count the eTorque version of the V8. With eTorque, Ram supplies a mild hybrid drivetrain, which helps power certain key components while adding some boost. Each Ram engine works with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The standard engine is a 3.6-liter V6 with 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. An upgraded 5.7-liter V8 gas engine delivers 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. This one adds $1,495 to your cost.

If you have $4,995 to spare, then the 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 is worth considering. This one produces 260 horsepower and a whopping 480 pound-feet of torque and nearly matches the 12,750-pound pulling chops of the V8. Importantly, it’s also the most fuel-efficient model, delivering a remarkable 22/32 mpg city/highway for the two-wheel-drive model.

Our four-wheel-drive Rebel model came with the diesel and that gave us an excellent opportunity to put it through its paces. Ram supplied our test model with the upgraded 33-gallon fuel tank, which means the Rebel’s range topped 800 miles. That means this Ram can travel from Raleigh to Detroit without refueling and still have at least 100 miles to spare. Simply remarkable!

The Ram diesel comes by way of one of Fiat’s engine divisions and was a proven workhorse then and now. It measures the same size as diesels offered by Chevrolet and Ford, but the Ram wins the fuel efficiency award.

Step-off acceleration is unremarkable, but that’s not uncommon in full-size pickup trucks with a standard V6 gas engine. It’s the V8 engines that offer the best off-the-mark acceleration, but at a price to fuel economy.

Once the diesel-powered Ram gets moving, the turbo quickly spools and all that wanted power kicks in low on the band curve (1,600 RPMs). That’s where you want to find it because anyone who knows how torque works, it serves as the principal motivator when accelerating and for pulling. To us, it seemed as if there was a big V8 gas engine under the hood. Instead, the muted rattle of the diesel reminded us otherwise.

Not only does the diesel supply the power, but the transmission is entirely suited for the job. It worked seamlessly and confidently – never once did we feel it wasn’t matching well with the required cog.

Beyond its robust performance, the Ram 1500 offers the best steering, handling, and ride among the large pickup trucks, in our opinion. Weighted steering, deft handling, and a thoroughly comfortable ride are its strengths, the latter imbued with a self-leveling suspension system that seems stolen from Mercedes-Benz, but likely comes by way of Alfa Romeo. We think the current Ram sets a new benchmark among its peers, which likely explains why it now outsells the venerable Chevrolet Silverado.

One more thought: is the Ram Rebel a direct competitor to the F-150 Raptor? In short, no it isn’t. They share some styling elements, but the Ford is designed to tackle Baja conditions, while the Rebel is best suited for nearly any other off-road pursuits. We didn’t take the Ram to Uwharrie National Forest, our favorite off-road destination, but we did play with it on gravel and dirt roads and also navigated not a few puddles and gullies. It acquitted itself wherever we took it, although its girth means we avoided some areas that are perhaps too tight for even smaller models.

Competitive Set

The Ford F-150 is the clear sales leader in the segment, holding its leadership since the late 1970s. That’s an amazing run and one unlikely to be overtaken anytime soon.

Inasmuch as the F-150 leads the segment, there have been years when the twin Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra have outsold Ford. But Ford now easily outsells the duo and will probably do so for the long haul.

Ram is certainly making strong inroads and that’s something to keep in mind when examining the segment or if you’re considering a slightly smaller midsize model. Although no longer made, the Ram Dakota may return in a few years, giving Ram a nice stablemate to consider. If you want a midsize FCA product, the Jeep Gladiator is worth a look.

Bringing up the rear of the segment in sales terms is the Toyota Tundra and the Nissan Titan. The Toyota is the more Ram-like of the two, while the Nissan reminds us of the Ford. Neither of these two offers a turbodiesel option, however.

Our Recommendation

Our pick is the Crew Cab simply for its outsized cabin. Stretching out your legs is a thrill typically reserved for stretch limousines. This one is the delight for both families and the work-crew set.

If your budget allows, then go all the way up to the Limited. Otherwise, the Rebel delivers a wonderful blend of grit and luxury. You’ll still pay well over $50,000 for one if you choose four-wheel drive and several of the options packages.

Should you consider the turbodiesel? The near-$5,000 investment may have some people balk at its cost, but a 50-percent-plus edge in fuel efficiency is hard to ignore. Also, a turbo is more durable than a gas engine and could easily outlast the truck – not that we think the Ram won’t last for decades, but the engine shouldn’t be a problem. We’d seriously choose one if towing and fuel efficiency were important considerations.

Deal Undone:
Fiat Chrysler Renault Merger

June 7, 2019 by admin 2 Comments

It was a merger of equals, bringing together automakers with a strong presence in Europe and the Americas. The deal seemed to emerge from nowhere and just as quickly it died. Whatever thoughts you had about a Fiat Chrysler Renault tie-up, it isn’t going to happen. At least not in the near future.

Fiat suddenly pulled out of the deal on Wednesday, reportedly weary of the delays it ultimately pinned on the French government. Renault itself was onboard — but the company is also partially owned by the French, thus government involvement was and is an important consideration in the manner the automaker is operated.

Ghosn is Gone

Apparently, the French were waiting on Nissan’s feedback, a company allied with Renault. Although not directly involved in the merger, Nissan would have a significant say in how the alliance would continue after the merger. At first, the Japanese automaker seemed indifferent to the merger, but the French were concerned that the alliance might unravel later. Further, where Carlos Ghosn once held Renault, Nissan, and Mitsubishi together, his leadership is no longer a factor. In fact, Ghosn is in legal trouble with Nissan and that dilemma extends to the Japanese government itself.

Oh, what a tangled web we weave! (When first we practise to deceive!)

Although deception isn’t listed as one of the reasons for the failed merger (with apologies to Sir Walter Scott), a lack of trust certainly was. Indeed, the post-mortem showed much weariness on Fiat’s part in getting the French government’s approval, which again, was based on Nissan’s backing. An initial delay turned into a second delay, which soon morphed into a postponement of at least five days. That last setback was too much, so FCA officially canceled the deal.

Bigland Whistleblower Lawsuit

While all this was happening, another story emerged that might have helped scuttle the deal. On Wednesday, FCA’s head of Ram truck sales, Reid Bigland, filed a whistleblower lawsuit against his employer. This stunning development comes as the federal government continues to review the automaker’s sales figures.

In particular, the SEC noted that the company reported inflated sales, which could have an impact on investors. In his lawsuit, Bigland charged that FCA pinned the blame on him and withheld most of his compensation in 2018, in part to cover fines it attributes to the executive. The executive is seeking to clear his name and regain lost compensation, reportedly in the millions of dollars.

Bigland is also the only FCA executive to sell all his shares in the automaker. That said, CEO Mike Manley sold $3.5 million in company shares immediately after the FCA-Renault merger was announced. Exactly what the sales figures and share selling have to do with the aborted merger isn’t known, although it adds an interesting wrinkle to the story.

FCA: Moving Forward

With the failed merger now in its rearview mirror, FCA will have to address the Bigland suit and settle with the federal government. It is never a good thing when a top executive files suit, especially one from one someone so influential. Bigland is also the CEO of FCA Canada.

Besides the Bigland suit, the company must continue its focus on two core brands: Jeep and Ram. Jeep has become the company’s star player, driving sales and profits to bolster the company. The automaker plans to build a new manufacturing plant in Detroit, where it will produce a pair of full-size and upscale Jeep models.

The Ram brand is also thriving and delivers its own share of the profits. The redesigned Ram 1500 recently nudged the Chevrolet Silverado out of second place among full-size pickup trucks and continues to garner a larger slice of the sales pie.

Finally, FCA will have to plan a future without another automaker, at least not with Renault. Had it merged with Renault, it would have gained access to the French brand’s electric vehicle platform, saving the company billions of dollars. As it now stands, FCA will bear that cost alone along with the added expense of developing autonomous vehicles in-house.

Dually Prowess: 2019 Ram 3500

April 12, 2019 by admin

The Ram brand has been on an upward trajectory ever since it was separated from Dodge beginning in 2009. Ram Trucks represent a variety of utility-type vehicles, but its flagship product has always been its line of full-size pickup trucks, which are chiefly sold in North America.

Ram has steadily grown its brand with its big pickup trucks accounting for the majority of the growth. Indeed, the all-new-for-2019 pickups recently passed the Chevrolet Silverado line in U.S. sales, taking over second place behind the Ford F-150. The new trucks have received much praise for their styling inside and out, as well as for their updated powertrains and technologies.

2019 Ram 3500 Overview

Ram Trucks separates its full-size models into 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 Series lines. The 1500 is its light-duty line, while its 2500 and 3500 models represent its heavy-duty trucks. As for the 4500 and 5500, these ones are commercial grade vehicles — chassis cab models that are routinely upfitted into dump trucks, panel trucks, ambulances, and so forth.

There is one thing common to most 3500, 4500, and 5500 models — available dual rear wheels (DRW). Ram offers this arrangement with both its rear- (4×2) and four- (4×4) wheel-drive trucks. It supplies improved handling and towing, the latter raising Ram’s already lofty towing capabilities skyward.

For 2019, the Ram 3500 is available in Regular, Mega and Crew Cab configurations. Besides 4×2 and 4×4, you’ll find either six-foot-four-inch or eight-foot boxes. You also have a choice of either a 6.4-liter heavy-duty V8 HEMI gas engine or a 6.7-liter Cummins inline-six turbodiesel engine. Ram further separates the Cummins offering into standard and high-output options. The gas engine works with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel is paired with one of two six-speed automatic transmissions.

Five model choices are available, beginning with the Tradesman regular cab 4×2 ($36,540). From there, your choices include the Big Horn ($40,890), Laramie ($52,245), Laramie Longhorn ($59,545), and Limited ($67,685) models. These prices include the $1,695 destination charge. The Tradesman and Big Horn are offered in Regular, Mega and Crew Cab configurations, while the other three do not offer the Regular Cab. Further, the Mega Cab is available only as a 4×4 model.

Are you confused yet? It only gets more confusing, which is why we don’t break down the various trims, packages, and offerings as we do with other model types. Instead, a visit to the Ram Trucks configurator page is in order.

Notwithstanding the many possible build-it-yourself outcomes, we couldn’t resist playing with the configurator ourselves in an effort to max out features and pricing. Would you believe our final price came in at $88,315 for a Ram 3500 Limited Crew Cab 4×4 model with an 8-foot box? That’s more than $20,000 in upgrades punctuated by the high-out turbo-diesel engine.

A Matter of Style

What’s old is new again. Initially introduced as the Dodge Ram 1500 in 2009 before dropping the Dodge appellation beginning in 2011. Dodge continued to build its fourth-generation pickup truck in 2019, renaming it the Ram Classic for one year as it overlapped with the new model. Fiat Chrysler is offering both models in an effort to fill back orders as well as to make a smooth transition to the new one. This move has paid off as sales are up 15 percent for the first quarter.

As for the Ram 3500, the new model receives its own take on big Ram goodness. Ram lent me a 3500 Big Horn 4×2 dually for a week, which was the first time a “dually” media fleet model came my way.

Is the Ram 3500 imposing? Heck, yeah. From bumper to bumper this truck makes its appearance known, as it delivers a formidable presence. Up front, the big grille is amplified by oversized “RAM” lettering, which is honed in by wing-like trim that also matches the LED headlight treatments. A sizable lower-grille opening and a beveled hood round out this truck’s frontal expression.

Ram takes the truck’s slab sides and adds special touches, including vent ports, oversized wheel arches, and trailer mirrors. The most striking feature of all is the truck bed, which expands out at the rear axle. Most designs add a sheetmetal overlay. Here, Ram offers an integrated design, which flows naturally. From the rear, the truck features a centered step bumper and LED tail lamps. A ram insignia is centered on the tailgate.

Inside, the cabin is spacious, but especially so with the crew cab model. This model is slightly wider and longer than the outgoing truck, therefore interior space benefits accordingly. Indeed, five big workers can sit in comfort (six with the available front bench seat).

Ram sought to raise available opulence with the new 3500 and has largely pulled this off. Not only does it provide a generous amount of interior storage, but some models include leather interiors with real wood trim. As for storage, the sliding storage compartment ahead of the oversized covered compartment between the front seats is a difference maker. My Big Horn model came with generously bolstered front bucket seats and a split-folding rear seat.

2019 Ram 3500

Safety & Technology

Fiat Chrysler’s UConnect interface is easily one of the best in the industry. Yes, there are different levels to this system, ranging from basic services with a tiny screen to a full-fledged operating unit with a 12-inch screen, depending on the FCA model, trim and package.

As for the Ram 3500, the system includes satellite radio, HD Radio, and Bluetooth streaming audio. The base models have the 5-inch screen, while package upgrades supply an 8.4-inch screen and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Additional package upgrades bring in the 12-inch touchscreen display and add a 17-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, Android Auto compatibility, and GPS antenna input. You’ll find 4G Wi-Fi connectivity on some trims too.

The Ram 3500 was not crash tested, although the 1500 has been. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gives the 1500 its highest score in all test categories, although it reserves a “marginal” rating for headlight range and brightness, and “acceptable” for child seat anchors.

2019 Ram 3500

The list of standard safety features includes electronic roll mitigation, stability and traction control, hill start assist, trailer sway damping, and a rear backup camera. Some models add blind-spot and cross-path detection, front and rear park assist, and trailer brake control.

As for adaptive cruise control with full stop along with full-speed collision warning, you’ll find these features as part of an equipment group upgrade on select trims.

On the Road

The Ram 3500 is everything about power. The standard gas engine motivated my Big Horn test model and is rated at 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque. Ram pairs this engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This particular truck’s payload capacity is nothing short of outstanding — up to 7,680 pounds with the gas engine. By the way, the payload covers the added weight in and on the vehicle, including all fluids, people, interior storage, and bed cargo.

Inasmuch as the brawny V8 wins the payload capacity advantage (the Cummins peaks about 2,000 pounds under), it is the stout diesel that supplies the strongest comprehensive power — 370 horsepower and 850 pound-feet of torque. The Cummin’s 6.7-liter inline-six, however, trails the Chevrolet Silverado HD’s 6.6-liter turbo-diesel V8 (445 horsepower and 910 foot-pounds of torque) as well as the Ford Super Duty’s 6.7-liter turbo-diesel V8 (450 horsepower and 935 foot-pounds of torque).

This year, Ram also offers a high-output version of the Cummins engine, which delivers an even 400 horsepower and 1,000 pounds of torque. The latter number represents a new threshold, one that manufacturers fought to achieve for several years. Ram reached it first, although we expect Ford and GM to follow.

The battle under the hood translates into trailering bragging rights. Even then, the current Silverado is on top at 35,500 pounds followed by Ram at 35,100 pounds. Ford comes in with 35,000 pounds. These numbers cover fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing. Standard towing is considerably lower and falls to as low as 14,080 pounds with the gas engine, depending on the cab and drivetrain configuration. Still, the ability to pull somewhere between seven and more than 17 tons is simply stunning.

Two rear wheels are definitely better than one, especially for towing. But they’re also ideal for keeping this big truck planted when you’re not towing. That’s a big reason why DRW models are beloved by contractors, landscape architect crews, and anyone else prizing these attributes.

Make no mistake: this Ram’s sheer size is intimidating — for drivers and other vehicles alike. The gas engine is certainly up to the task, even as it moves more than three tons of girth. This truck’s step-off acceleration is robust — the only caution is to ensure the rear wheels have enough room to leave a driveway without taking down shrubbery or a mailbox. There is ample power at all times and the transmission shifts with precision. Under hard acceleration, this burly truck presses onward with authority. On two-lane roads, it takes some getting used to driving — the rear wheels and side mirrors stick out far enough to where concern for cyclists is an issue.

The brakes are strong, but you’ll need to allow for extra stopping time. Of course, this is especially important if you’re pulling anything. But you knew that, right? As for the ride, you won’t find anything more comfortable, likely due in part to the dual rear wheels. Perhaps the most significant challenge lies with the turning radius as you’ll need all the room you can get.

2019 Ram 3500

Auto Trends Recommends

Four rear wheels are better than two, right? In some cases, this is definitely true. I can see anyone who needs to tow a massive amount of cargo opting for a dually as the wider stance increases stability under these conditions. You’ll enjoy the supplemental benefit of a decreased risk in overloading. Braking is also better, while the extra set of tires comes in handy if you lose one during a blowout.

As for a recommendation, a crew cab offers maximum passenger capacity, which is a priority for many work crews. My test model was rear-wheel drive and is likely sufficient for most. It also offers a slightly better benefit in towing, so only opt for four-wheel drive if you think you’ll need it.

Lastly, the Cummins option is enticing, but it does come at a sizable cost: $9,100 for the standard one and $11,795 for the high-output version. Regardless of your choice, added pulling power is a big reason to upgrade as well as a diesel’s durability and longevity.

Ram and Caterpillar — A foreboding sky and the outline of a majestic tree provide
a fitting backdrop for two powerful machines.

2019 Ram 3500 Crew Cab 4×2

Sticker price from $43,650 (plus $1,695 destination fee)
Price as tested: $57,065
Seats 5 or 6 occupants
Engine No. 1: 6.4-liter gas V-8
410 horsepower @ 5,600 RPM
429 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,000 RPM
8-speed automatic transmission
Engine No. 2: 6.7-liter Cummins turbo-diesel I-6
370 (400 high output) horsepower @ 2,800 RPM
850 (1,000 high output) foot-pounds of torque @ 1,750 (1,800 H.O.) RPM
6-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 169.1 inches
Length: 260.8 inches
Width: 83.5 inches
Height: 77.2 inches
Passenger volume: NR
Storage volume: 6-feet-6-inch-or 8-foot bed
Towing capacity: Up to 35,100 pounds
EPA: NR
Unleaded regular gasoline or low-sulphur diesel
Fuel tank: 31 or 32 gallons
Curb weight: From 6,037 to 7,326 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Not rated
Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/100,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Warren, Michigan

Ram Trucks

2019 Ram 3500

Ram Gets a Midsize Pickup Truck

September 17, 2018 by admin 4 Comments

A Dakota replacement is in the works.

Dodge Dakota — The Dodge Ram was the first midsize pickup truck.

Once considered a dying segment, the midsize pickup truck market is showing fresh signs of life. Much credit is due to GM for releasing a pair of new trucks in 2015 — the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. Those trucks lifted sales among such competing models as the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier, and rejuvenated the segment.

Honda Ridgeline, Ford Ranger Return

Early in 2019, the Ford Ranger returns after an 8-year hiatus. About the same time, the Jeep Scrambler joins the market, the first pickup truck from this SUV brand we’ve seen in decades. Honda has the Ridgeline, a crossover pickup truck based on the architecture underpinning the Honda Pilot.

The segment isn’t done yet. A new model from Nissan seems imminent and the Tacoma will likely see a significant overhaul in the next year or two as Toyota seeks to defend its top position in the segment. Next up is a Ram pickup truck, an expected all-new model recently confirmed for production as reported by Automotive News.

2019 Ford Ranger — The Ford Ranger returns in early 2019.

From Dodge To Ram

Not much is known about the Ram, which replaces the Dodge Dakota last produced in 2010 (it was sold as the Ram Dakota in 2011). What we do know is that the Ram will be built at the same Toledo, Ohio, manufacturing plant as the Jeep Scrambler. Both models are traditional body-on-frame and will likely have multiple powertrain, cabin and bed choices available.

But the Ram, like the Jeep, will not be a high volume model. The segment has supported about 500,000 units annually, which is a far cry from the 2.4 million full-size pickup trucks sold every year in the U.S. alone.

Manufacturers, however, may look at midsize pickup trucks as the key to improving overall fuel economy. Yes, full-size pickup trucks from GM, Ford and Ram earn up to 30 mpg highway when motivated by a turbo-diesel engine. But those engines represent only a small portion of the motors powering pickup trucks.

2019 Ram 1500. — 2019 Ram 1500 Rebel (l) and Limited editions (r).

Hybrid Pickup Trucks

Ram is the first manufacturer to introduce hybrids, utilizing mild hybrids in some models. They’re not full-blown hybrids, but they do bring vehicle electrification along with the enhanced power to the segment. We’ll soon see plug-in hybrid pickup trucks, which will only enhance fuel efficiency.

The smaller, lighter midsize trucks may prove the most efficient models as these come with standard four-cylinder engines. Just as Ram has the first hybrid trucks, we’ll see that technology spread to Jeep and to the Dakota replacement, as both brands are owned by Fiat Chrysler.

The Jeep Wrangler, for instance, will soon boast a plug-in hybrid model, arriving on the market about a year after an available turbo-diesel engine debuts next year. It seems likely that whatever the Wrangler gets will head to the Scrambler. And because the Scrambler and midsize Ram share the same architecture, ditto for the Dakota replacement.

2017 GMC Canyon Denali Crew Cab 4×4 short bed.

Ram Pickup Truck Aspirations

Although there isn’t much known about the new Ram pickup, there are a few things we can deduce. For starters, extended cab and crew cab configurations along with two bed size choices are a given.

FCA’s venerable 3.6-liter V6 and a turbo-charged 2,0-liter four-cylinder engine should kick things off. One or both will be paired with a six-speed manual transmission or to an available 9-speed automatic transmission (standard with four-wheel drive). Segment-leading technologies, including infotainment and driver-assist features, will dominate the top-end trims.

In all, the upcoming Ram should only burnish the brand. Given that, the Ram is only possible because of the Jeep Scrambler, which is based on the popular Wrangler. Together, the three models should deliver the profits the automaker requires to justify such models.

Sport Truck: 2017 Ram 1500 Night Edition

July 25, 2017 by admin 2 Comments

Black embellishments add pop to the Ram 1500.

2017 Ram 1500 Night Edition Crew Cab 4x2. — 2017 Ram 1500 Night Edition Crew Cab 4×2.

It was four years to the week when a second Ram 1500 entered my press fleet rotation. That’s a long time between drives, especially as multiple copies of competing models from Ford, Nissan, Chevrolet, Toyota, and GMC came and went.

I cover pickup trucks probably as much as most other body styles, except for crossovers. The big number of crossovers found in press pools is understandable as we’re in the midst of a transition away from cars to utility vehicles. Manufacturers are simply responding to customer demand, although I absolutely long for the days of hot coupes and sport sedans gracing my driveway. Did I say I own a crossover?!

The current-generation Ram 1500 started out as the Dodge Ram 1500 in 2009, transitioning to a “Ram” brand unto itself two years later. Nine years is a long time to stick with the same model, but that fact hasn’t hurt Fiat Chrysler. Indeed, June 2017 US auto sales had Ram outselling the Chevrolet Silverado, the perennial second-place full-size pickup truck to the Ford F-Series. There’s a chance Ram may overtake Chevrolet for the year and that would be amazing as the Silverado is five years newer than the Ram. In any event, the next-generation Ram 1500 isn’t expected before 2019.

2017 Ram 1500

Taking Back the Night: 2017 Ram 1500

A 2017 Ram 1500 Crew Cab 4×2 Night Edition was my test model. This special version advances a commonly recurring theme amongst manufacturers — black embellishments on a white, black or other-colored body.

In this example, the 1500’s night package brings a black grille surround, black RAM tailgate stamping, 20-inch black aluminum wheels set within black sidewall all-season tires, and related badging.

Inside, you’ll find high-back heated cloth bucket seats with 10-way power adjustment. Rounding out the features are power-adjustable pedals and dual-zone automatic climate control.

Five exterior color choices are available: bright silver metallic, bright white, brilliant black, flame red, and granite crystal metallic. My test model was bright white, supplying this truck with an ideal contrast.

2017 Ram 1500

A Matter of Style

So, what sets this sport truck apart from the Ram 1500 pack? Everything mentioned earlier. If the style seems familiar to you, it should as it first appeared on the 2013 Ram 1500 Black Express package.

Other features include a body color fascia, body-color rear bumper, dual chrome exhaust tips, body-color power-folding mirrors and door handles. Take a close look the headlights too, as you’ll find black-bezel bi-functional projector headlamps with LED marker lights as well as black-bezel tail lamps.

You can have the Night Edition in regular, extended or crew cab body styles and your choice of 2WD or 4WD as well as standard and extended bed lengths.

Optional features include a performance hood with scoops, black running boards, RamBox cargo management, and a dual-purpose bed extender/divider. My test model had each of those features.

2017 Ram 1500

Safety and Technology

Both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) put the Ram 1500 through extensive safety testing.

The NHTSA tested all three cab styles and both 2WD and 4WD versions. In each case, the Ram received four out of a possible five stars overall. In most cases, it achieved a 3-star rating for rollover, 4 stars for frontal crash and 5 stars for side crash.

The IIHS was similarly tough on the 2017 Ram 1500 as it awarded the truck its top score of “good” in three categories — moderate overlap front, side, and head restraints & seats, but “marginal” in small overlap front and roof strength. This truck also got dinged for its headlights and child seat anchors.

Standard safety equipment includes front and all-row, full-length air bags. You’ll also find a driver’s knee airbag. Available driver assist innovations include blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, forward collision warning, emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

Top tech features include UConnect voice-command telematics, Bluetooth, WiFi hotspot, an auxiliary input jack, and USB ports. A six-speaker audio system with satellite radio is standard. Also available are 7- or 10-speaker audio package, the latter with a subwoofer.

2017 Ram 1500

On the Road

Ram offers a pair of engine choices with the Night Edition. Happily, the standard V6 was not supplied with my test model. Instead, a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 making 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque provided a week of driving delight. That’s a much better deal than the 305-hp and 269 lb.-ft. of torque delivered by the 3.6-liter V6 — nothing against the junior engine, but if you want a raucous driving experience, it’s found in the HEMI alone.

2017 Ram 1500 There is a third engine Ram 1500 available, but not with the Night Edition. That would be the Fiat Chrysler 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6, what bangs out 240 horsepower and a robust 420 pound-feet of torque. Incidentally, FCA yanked the diesel from the market for several months this year in response to a federal investigation that the engine violated emissions regulations. The automaker has since resumed production even as it still awaits the EPA’s blessing to start selling the truck again.

Across the board, all Ram 1500 engines come paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. My test model added an anti-spin differential rear axle — that’s Ram terminology for a limited-slip rear differential. Here, if the drive wheel loses grip, the limited-slip differential transfers power to the other wheel to regain grip. You may notice this when cornering or if roads are wet.

So, I spent sufficient time on twisty roads to gauge just how well the 1500 handled. Steering feels light to the touch and is not especially engaging. Handling is about what you’d expect — you’re still dealing with a large, crew cab model and that means you’ll experience some body roll. On the twistiest of roads, I found it difficult at times to keep the truck in my lane. Of course, had I been driving slower, that wouldn’t have been an issue. I’m sure the regular cab would have offered an ideal driving experience.

As for the HEMI, it is everything enthusiasts want — huge, burly and powerful. The boisterous exhaust note is a wonderful complement to the engine, sending forth warnings to all that a HEMI is in the house.

Parting Thoughts

My test model came in just above $50,000 and that’s not an uncommon price for today’s full-size crew cab models. Its base price was about $10,000 less, the higher cost reflected largely by the engine upgrade ($1,250), RamBox management system ($1,295), and more than a dozen special features ranging from locking lug nuts ($60) to the sport performance hood ($775).

Of course, cab and bed sizes make a difference in price too. That said, some of the most generous incentives are on crew cab pickup trucks, with discounts of $5,000 or more easily within reach. All in all, the Night Edition garnishes the Ram 1500 without overdoing. Its already a masculine truck — the black embellishments are akin to a man adding mutton chop sideburns or a goatee to his face.

2017 Ram 1500

2017 Ram 1500 Night Edition Crew Cab 4×2

Sticker price from $40,395 (Crew Cab)
Price as tested: $50,245
Seats 3 or 5 occupants
Engine No. 1: 3.6-liter V-6
305 horsepower @ 6,400 RPM
269 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,175 RPM
Engine No. 2: 5.7-liter HEMI V-8
395 horsepower @ 5,600 RPM
410 foot-pounds of torque @ 3,950 RPM
8-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 140.5 inches
Length: 229 inches
Width: 79.4 inches
Height: 77.2 inches
Passenger volume: 125.3 cubic feet
Storage volume: 5-feet-7-inch-bed
Towing capacity: 12,350 to 15,950 pounds
EPA: 15 mpg city, 22 mpg highway (V8)
Regular gasoline
Fuel tank: 26 gallons
Curb weight: From 5,232 to 5,712 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Not rated
Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/100,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Warren, Michigan

2017 Ram 1500

Will the Ram Rumble Bee Sting the Ford Tremor?

August 22, 2013 by admin 2 Comments

A sport truck concept with an entombed bumble bee.

Car manufacturers like to respond to the pronouncements made by competing makes by answering with new and improved products of their own. In the 1960s, the Camaro was Chevrolet’s answer to the Ford Mustang. In the 1970s, Ford and Chevrolet partnered with Japanese manufacturers to supply small pickup trucks to them before embarking on a model campaign of their own. In the 1980s, Ford pushed back against the rising tide of midsize sedan competitors by launching the Taurus.

Ram 1500 Rumble Bee Concept.

Ram 1500 Rumble Bee

These days, battles are being fought across all segments from the tiniest city car to largest pickup trucks. Earlier this month, Ford announced that its all-new F-150 Tremor would go on sale this fall, a sport truck retailing from $38,000. Not to be outdone, Ram has rolled out its concept 1500 Rumble Bee pickup truck, a model that if built would challenge the new Ford truck. The Ram concept truck was introduced at the 2013 Woodward Dream Cruise in Detroit last week.

Fittingly, the Rumble Bee features a Drone Yellow finish with bee graphics on the exterior striping and inside on the seat covers. If the name sounds familiar it is — inspiration was taken from the Dodge Super Bee muscle cars of the 1960s. Moreover it marks the 10th anniversary of the original Rumble Bee, then a Dodge product.

Sport Truck Platform

The Rumble Bee is based on the Ram 1500 R/T, itself a performance truck. Under the hood is a familiar 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine rated at 395 horsepower and 407 foot-pounds of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed TorqueFlight automatic transmission, a ZF-supplied shifter. Its a two-door, rear-wheel drive model.

Ram sought to place the Drone Yellow color schema nearly everywhere — on the bumpers, the flares and on the Mopar ground effects kit. An all-new “Speed Bee” design is plastered on both sides of the Rumble Bee, set within a gloss black stripe that fades into honeycomb.

That black stripe flows from front to rear, around the top of the bed and over the Mopar tonneau cover to commemorate HEMI-powered vehicles that dominated the racing scene in the late 1960s to early 1970s. Gloss black, 24-inch Vellano VRH custom wheels and a 2-inch drop supplied by King Suspension enhances handing performance and improves overall appearance with the help of a reservoir shock at each wheel. A gloss black finish coats the grille, hood vents, badging, fuel door and the dual exhaust tailpipes, a theme found on both sides of the truck.

Bumble Bee Encasement

Back inside, the color and graphics schema include Drone Yellow leather sport mesh seats with two-tone yellow/light-grey stitching, while “Rumble Bee” lettering and Ram logos are affixed to chairs, the floor mats and on door bolsters.

There is also an interesting design choice that you haven’t seen before: an actual bumble bee encased within the transmission shifter knob. It is bathed in amber and the knob lights up to show both the bee and the honeycomb patterned background. The designers also installed a pair of buttons below the knob control exhaust cutouts to bypass the Mopar cat-back dual-exhaust system, what brings in the full sound of the engine at what Ram describes as loud and still louder decibels.

10th Anniversary Model

Ram says that the unique honeycomb pattern is shared with door trim and the dash, where a milled aluminum “10th Anniversary” commemorative badge serves as the truck’s identification. So, despite being a concept, we’re likely to see limited editions of this bright yellow Rumble Bee truck in Ram showrooms this fall. Your move, Chevrolet.

Photo courtesy of the Chrysler Group.

Light Duty Diesel Pickup Truck for the Ram 1500

February 15, 2013 by admin 3 Comments

Do you like diesels? This writer admits that he does although his experience with and brief ownership of a 1978 Rabbit Diesel does little to uphold his position that diesel technology is the way to go. For fuel savings. For reduced emissions. For less of a dependency on foreign oil.

2013 Ram 1500

Diesel Ambivalence

America’s flirtation with diesel technology died in the 1980s as an encounter with failed GM engines chased many consumers away. In recent years we have seen a revival with the German automakers bringing forth 50-state compliant engines while other manufacturers such as Chevrolet with its Cruze and Jeep with its Grand Cherokee jump into the game. Still, there is a dearth of diesel engines available, especially when you consider how prevalent these motors are in Europe.

Diesel engines have long been offered with heavy duty pickup trucks even when Americas love of diesel-powered cars grew cold. Such diesel trucks offer top of the range torque, enabling various Ford, Chevrolet, GMC and Ram pickup trucks to claim extraordinary towing capabilities while still delivering good, although unpublished fuel economy numbers. Diesels have remained popular with fleet buyer as well as with enthusiasts that appreciate the big towing edge.

Truck Duty

The one deficiency with diesel trucks has been light-duty availability. You can get a diesel with a Ford Super Duty, but it isnt available with the Ford F-150. That shortcoming has been going on for decades, but beginning this fall the Ram 1500 will offer customers a diesel option, effectively closing the gap.

On Thursday, the Chrysler Group announced that it will offer a 3.0-liter V-6 turbodiesel with the Ram 1500, pairing it with an eight-speed automatic transmission. That engine, supplied by Fiat, is already available in the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Although fuel economy ratings have yet to be announced, there is a very good chance that 1500 diesel-equipped models will get about 30 mpg.

Fuel Efficiency

Big news for the Ram 1500, the new engine will likely give Chrysler an important selling point that its competitors do not have. Toyota and Nissan do not offer diesels, while Ford and GM offer turbo-diesels, but only in their largest trucks. Essentially, Chrysler is throwing the gauntlet down, daring its competitors to match its offer. Likely, Ford will find a way with GM also mulling its response.

The new Ram engine will be the smallest offered among full-size truck producers, but diesel engines typically produce more power in a smaller footprint. There will most definitely be a distinction made between the Fiat-supplied turbo-diesel and the larger, 5.7-liter six cylinder turbo-diesel supplied by Cummins. The former will likely be positioned as the fuel economy leader, the latter as the brand workhorse.

Ram Trucks

Adding a smaller diesel to the Ram truck line will likely help Ram in its quest to produce and sell 300,000 units for 2013. Ram may trail Ford and General Motors in production and sales, but it does easily outdistance Toyota and Nissan. While its current sales are less than half of second place GM, it may have the best product line up in the market besides Ford. That advantage can help the Chrysler Group immensely as large pickup trucks are big on profits or what Chrysler needs to stay relevant in a tough new vehicle market.