The always popular Dodge Ram pickup truck steps up its reputation in 2019. Car and Driver has named the Ram 1500 as the #1 full-sized pickup truck.
According to Car and Driver, “In its comfort, composure, and capability, the Ram 1500 is America at its best.”
The completely-redesigned Ram 1500 delivers solid performance when it comes to power and reliability. It features a practical yet luxury interior with spacious seating.
That combined with a high-powered engine and towing capabilities makes for superior ride quality.
Altogether, it’s the highest-rated truck in its class. Next, are eight reasons why America voted the Ram 1500 the best full-sized pickup for 2019.
History of the Dodge Ram Pickup Truck
Dodge originally introduced the Ram 1500 in the 1980s as the Dodge Ram 1500. However, the Dodge Ram pickup truck traces back to the 1920s. The original Dodge Ram 1500 was part of a larger truck line that larger models like the 2500 and 3500.
Engine choices were a six-cylinder, two V-8s, and a Cummins turbodiesel I-6, which was added in 1989. In 1993, a newer model replaced the first-generation Dodge Ram 1500.
The newer model had updated engines. In 1998, a six-speed manual transmission was added as an option. Buyers now had the choice of a three-speed automatic or four-speed manual unit.
In 2001, the third-generation Ram pickup was born (as a 2002 model). Dodge produced this one through 2008. Drivers remember the 2008 model for the four-door MegaCab body style.
The MegaCab was an extended cab with a larger cargo box. It also had more interior space, accommodating up to six passengers.
Later in 2002, the Ram SRT10 came out. This model was more or less a Ram 1500 that was powered by an 8.3-liter V-10.
What’s interesting here is that this engine was from the second-generation Dodge Viper. It produced 500 hp and 525 lb-ft of torque. Dodge manufactured this Viper-powered truck from 2004 through 2006.
In 2019, Dodge has once again re-designed the Ram, improving upon all of its best features. Let’s talk about a few of the features that make the Ram 1500 one of the best rides of 2019.
- Ram 1500 Performance
The Ram 1500 comes with a choice of two engines. The first is a formidable, 305-horsepower V6 base engine, and the other is a 395-horsepower V8.
For both engines, you can choose a mild-hybrid eTorque system, which can improve performance in some important areas. Both engines can handle and move the Ram without no issues.
Though, the V8 is the best choice for hauling and towing. Both engines come with an automatic transmission.
- Ram 1500 Ride and Handling
To put it simply, you won’t experience a better ride in any other truck. The Ram 1500 remains stable and smooth in most cases. Winding road and rough terrain? No problem for the Dodge Ram Pickup.
You can take the Ram 1500 off-road for a medium-to-rough ride. While Dodge didn’t design it for extreme off-roading, you can take the Ram off-road without worry.
Dodge recommends the Rebel trim for off-roading. However, there are several features available in every trim that can improve performance.
- Towing Capacity
The Ram 1500 tows up to 12,750 pounds and hauls up to 2,300 pounds. These totals are based on the Ram pickup being properly equipped for towing. The Ram won’t strain to haul these loads. It has ample stopping power when pulling a heavy trailer.
- Ram 1500 Cargo Space
The Ram 1500 pickup has the option of a six-foot, four-inch bed or a five-foot, seven-inch bed. Those options depend on the configuration of the cab.
An additional cargo feature is a deployable tailgate step. Another is the RamBox storage system. The RamBox adds storage compartments to the bed. It’s built into the side walls, which give you a lock box for your tools or other needed items.
- Ram 1500 Interior
The Ram 1500 offers spacious seating for all its variants, including the Quad Cab and Crew Cab models, which accommodates up to six passengers. Both rows have ample space.
The rear seats are the largest in their class. That means both headroom and legroom for adult passengers. The Ram 1500’s Quad and Crew Cab models also include two sets of car seat latch connectors.
Overall cabin quality is one of the new Ram 1500’s best features. Premium materials and high-quality trim lines the interior, mirroring that of luxury vehicles.
Ram designed the cabin with added insulation so that passengers are well-insulated from outside road noise.
- Ram 1500 Dashboard Technology
The following features are standard in the Ram 1500: a push-button start, three USB ports, and Bluetooth. It also includes the Uconnect infotainment system, which has a five-inch touch screen.
Other optional features are wireless device charging, a sunroof, satellite radio, and a Harman Kardon audio system. You can also upgrade the Uconnect system with an 8.4- or 12-inch touch screen.
Finally, you can select Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation/GPS. Regarding the Ram 1500’s infotainment system, it’s a fantastic, user-friendly system. The controls are easy to reach from the driver’s seat.
The touch screen has excellent graphics, especially the larger screen option. The Uconnect system menus are easy to navigate, with physical controls for many of the functions.
- Ram 1500 Safety
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reported its crash test results on the Dodge Ram 1500 series. The Ram 1500 Crew Cab models earned the highest rating of “Good” in six crash test categories.
The only lower score was a rating of “Marginal” for the headlights and how well they illuminated the road. The Quad Cab models received scores of Good score in all categories tested.
One pleasing standard feature of the Ram 1500 models is a rearview camera. Other available options are driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera.
Rear cross traffic alerts are additional options, as are forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, front and rear parking sensors, lane keep assist, and parallel and perpendicular park assist.
- Ram 1500 Gas Mileage
Even with all the extra towing and hauling capacity, the Ram 1500 models remain competitive with their counterparts when it comes to fuel efficiency. Ram has improved the fuel economy with the new Ram 1500.
With Ram V6 engine, the fuel economy estimates are 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. With the V8, they are 15 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
Those figures are similar to the ratings of other V8-powered makes and models.
See the Ram 1500 Pickup Truck for Yourself
The redesigned Ram Truck has more space in the cab, delivers excellent dash technology, and maintains its signature smooth ride. If you are in the market for a full-sized pickup truck, you owe it to yourself to test drive the Ram 1500.
If you have any questions about the Ram 1500, contact us or stop by our Millington showroom today.
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