INTRODUCTION
Traditionally, Ram trucks have trailed Ford and Chevy. However, once RAM became separate from Dodge, each successive generation has gotten better while offering more bang for the buck. Within the last decade, the RAM 1500 has won Truck of the Year three times including this year. If you’re looking for a full-sized truck with the ride of a luxury sedan, the 2019 RAM 1500 might be it.
TOP FEATURES
The 2019 RAM 1500 has plenty to offer and here are some of the top features available:
- Best-in-class towing capable of towing an African bush elephant (12,750 lbs).
- A class-exclusive Active Level Four Corner Air Suspension, typically reserved for commercial buses and trains.
- The famed RAMBOX Cargo Management System which no other trucks offer. Dual covered compartments so you don’t have to soil your cab on a rainy day.
- The most rear legroom of any truck for when you and the boys are done with leg day.
- Unique in-floor storage with a removable container, where you can store your beer, guns, or boots.
- A 3.5L V6 Engine with up to 369 LB-FT torque (or the 5.7L HEMI® V8 with eTorque)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission.
- Push-Button Start.
- With the largest brake rotors of its class, stopping has never been easier.
TRIM OPTIONS
Tradesman
Starting at $31,795-$38,395
305-HP, 3.6-liter V-6 (or 5.7L HEMI® V8 with eTorque option)
Big Horn
Starting at $36,040-$42,540
305-HP, 3.6-liter V-6 (or 5.7L HEMI® V8 with eTorque option)
Laramie
Starting at $39,940-$46,440
395-HP, 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 (or 5.7L HEMI® V8 with eTorque option)
Rebel
Starting at $44,240-$47,740
305-HP, 3.6-liter V-6 (or 5.7L HEMI® V8 with eTorque option)
Laramie Longhorn
Starting at $50,640-$54,440
395-HP, 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 (or 5.7L HEMI® V8 with eTorque option)
Limited
Starting at $52,995-$56,895
395-HP, 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 (or 5.7L HEMI® V8 with eTorque option)
WHAT’S THE BENEFIT OF ETORQUE?
In the context of the powertrain options, it gives the V-6 a 90 lb-ft torque boost and the V-8 a 130 lb-ft kick. The main benefit is it adds low-end torque as opposed to peak torque which will help greatly when moving heavy loads from a standstill.
THE COMPETITION
F150
A main competitor to the 1500, the F150 offers 7 different trims and 4 powertrain options. Without counting the extravagant Raptor Trim, the options offered are on par with its rival in both power and price.
Silverado
Another major player with 8 trims and 3 powertrain options, this Chevy truck is another one to consider. But with unimpressive fuel efficiency and lack-luster powertrain options, it may perennially sit behind the other two.
Used
Many times you will look at the mileage on a car before anything else. Usually, this is a good idea as you can expect a new vehicle to go 200,000 miles if kept well. However, you are taking additional risks in purchasing a used vehicle. You’re never really sure how well the previous owner(s) have taken care of it. Even if you bring the car to a mechanic for a check-up, it’s possible that you’re still not able to catch everything. This includes certified pre-owned vehicles from dealerships.
CONCLUSION
It almost always comes down to the F150 and the RAM 1500 if you’re looking at a new full-size. Generally speaking, the RAM 1500 is known for its smooth ride and upscale cabin while the F150 excels at towing and fuel efficiency. The only way to know which one you want for sure is to come in for a test-drive.
