

Most models are available with upscale features such as heated and ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof, while the fanciest versions have premium leather surfaces and genuine wood accents. Higher trims add upscale materials and creature comforts, making the Ram feel more like a luxury vehicle than a pickup truck.

Inside, the Ram 1500 has supremely functional cubby stowage and cavernous passenger space. For more information about the Ram 1500's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. That's 6 and 4 mpg better than a V-8 Rebel and a V-8 Laramie, which lacked electric-assist, we tested. A 1500 Rebel with the gas V-6 we tested returned 24 mpg on our 75-mph real-world fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen. The gas V-6 and V-8, meanwhile, top out at 23 and 20 mpg combined, respectively. The EPA estimates that the most efficient Ram, the rear-drive diesel, nabs a combined fuel economy rating of 26 mpg. With hybridized V-6 and V-8 engines, as well as a diesel option, the Ram 1500 lineup has varied fuel economy. Nonetheless, the more passenger-friendly 1500 crew cab can still tow north of 11,500 pounds. Rams with the crew cab body style-including the Rebel model-can't tow as much as those with the extended cab. Its maximum towing capacity exceeds all but the Ford F-150, which currently tops 13,000 pounds. The Ram 1500 can tow up to 12,750 pounds and carry a payload of up to 2320 pounds. Ram 1500 Gets a Rugged BackCountry Edition.Models equipped with air suspension even have an adjustable ride height, which aids fuel efficiency and off-road performance. Every Ram 1500 has an impressive ride thanks to a rear suspension that uses standard coil springs or optional air springs, unlike the traditional leaf-spring setup found on domestic rivals. For adventurous folk, the rugged Rebel model provides beefier looks and legitimate off-road capability. Until then, the 260-hp diesel V-6 is available under the hoods of 1500 Tradesman, Big Horn, Lone Star, Laramie, Limited Longhorn, and Limited trims. A diesel is also available for 2023, though Ram intends to stop production of this engine in January 2023. Both engines are assisted by a 48-volt hybrid system, though the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 is also available without the electric support. The Ram 1500 offers V-6 and V-8 gasoline powertrains that pair with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. The only other options we'd recommend are the Safety and Convenience package (adaptive cruise, automatic high-beam headlights, lane-keeping assist) and the Multifunction Tailgate, which also brings a spray-in bedliner. We'd also nab the 33-gallon fuel tank, which ought to noticeably improve the truck's driving range (a 26-gallon tank comes standard). As doing so requires either the Level 1 or Level 2 package, we think the latter's the way to go, as it includes items such as remote start, a 115-volt power outlet, front and rear parking sensors, power-adjustable pedals, and passive hands-free entry. We'd also add the available air suspension for its selectable ride height. We'd opt for the crew cab with four-wheel drive, and spend the money to get the V-8 over the standard V-6. With an impressive 12,750-pound max tow rating and a heavy bias for luxury, the Ram 1500 is our favorite full-size pickup available today.Īlthough the 702-hp Ram 1500 TRX ( reviewed separately) diminishes the desirability of the Rebel, we still think it's the half-ton Ram to get. Ram also offers the 1500 with a giant 12.0-inch infotainment screen for those really looking to show off. Ram's split-folding tailgate and lockable bed cargo boxes are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this half-ton's cleverness. For even more firepower, seek the 702-hp Ram 1500 TRX, reviewed separately. Three powertrain options fill its engine roster: a 260-hp diesel-drinking turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6, a 305-hp 3.6-liter V-6, and a 395-hp 5.7-liter V-8, all of which use an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Ram 1500 is the best driving and most comfortable pickup of the group. And yet, only the Ram celebrates a spot on our 10Best Trucks and SUVs for 2023. (Its predecessor, however, continues on as the Ram 1500 Classic.) Since then, the full-size pickup truck segment has seen updated entries from Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, and Toyota. The current-generation Ram 1500 debuted in 2019.
