No longer the third wheel of American pickups, the RAM 1500 has become especially competitive over the past few years. A strong engine roster and highly refined interior have certainly boosted its appeal, not to mention a dizzying array of trims and special packages.
What's New For 2015
The RAM 1500 is essentially unchanged this year.
Choosing Your RAM 1500
Like its competitors, the 1500 comes in multiple configurations. The Regular Cab seats three and is available with either a 6-foot-4-inch or 8-foot bed. The Quad Cab comes only with a 6-foot-4-inch bed and features narrow, front-hinged rear doors and a full-length backseat. The Crew Cab offers full-size rear doors and more rear legroom, along with your choice of a 5-foot-7-inch or 6-foot-4-inch bed.
The standard 3.6-liter V6 produces 305 horsepower and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Next up is a 395-horsepower 5.7-liter V8, which comes with a six- or eight-speed automatic depending on the trim level. For enhanced efficiency, RAM also offers a 3-liter turbodiesel V6 with 240 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, matched to an eight-speed automatic. Buyers who want four-wheel drive can choose a conventional part-time system or one with an automatic four-wheel-drive mode. Both systems feature low-range gearing. With the eight-speed automatic, gear selections are made using a dash-mounted rotary knob instead of a shift lever.
The V6 RAM 1500 can tow up to 7,450 pounds, and turbodiesel models top out at 9,200. The V8 offers the most pulling capability at 10,450 pounds.
The 1500 is available in no less than six trim levels:
The SLT strikes the right balance of comfort and affordability in our view. It's a sharp-looking truck that doesn't overdose on bling or require you to make costly upgrades.