With its coil-sprung rear suspension and available air springs, the Ram 1500 can ride wonderfully. Its engine choices are also superb, helping net a 7 on the TCC scale.
All models except for the TRX come standard with rear-wheel drive. And all models except the HFE can be optionally equipped with four-wheel drive.
Ram offers a part-time transfer case on lower-end trim levels, while swankier models step in an automatic mode suitable for use on any kind of terrain.
Ram offers a few off-road packages that typically bundle all-terrain tires, additional drive modes that tweak traction control response, and skid plates.
How fast is the Ram 1500?
It’s decently quick. The 3.6-liter V-6 puts out 305 hp, but an on-board starter-generator adds a surge of torque to make it feel a little snappier off the line. The optional 5.7-liter V-8 is rated at a hearty 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque, and it benefits from the same mild-hybrid tech as the V-6. The V-8 delivers robust acceleration and a NASCAR-grade snarl, though it lacks the turbo punch found in Ford and Toyota competitors. The mild-hybrid tech helps run the Ram’s considerable electrical accessories.
Ram also offers a smooth 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6 rated at 260 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, but its $5,000-or-so price tag rise makes it a tough sell.
Ram TRX models swap in a fantastic 6.2-liter V-8, which bolts on a supercharger for 702 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. They’re raucous, to say the least. Mild-mannered, the Ram TRX is not.
Other models are far, far tamer–thankfully. Ram makes use of coil springs to suspend the solid rear axle, still a relative rarity among big pickups. The result is a planted ride more like a big SUV than a pickup, even when unladen. Air springs are optional on most versions, and they’re worth the spend especially if you consider big wheels a must-have.
Rams have quick, accurate steering and little body lean for such big vehicles. They’re not curvy road champs, but they feel more nimble than their big size would otherwise suggest.
Tow ratings vary by configuration, but a V-8 can be relatively easily equipped to lug as much as 12,750 pounds.
