Founded in 1900, Dodge has been a long-standing automobile brand in America for over a century. Chrysler bought the company in 1928 while remaining true to its “Dodge” identity.
Then in the 1980s, Dodge began the Ram truck line. But in the 21st Century, Chrysler did some reshuffling to make a distinction between Dodge and Ram. Let’s learn more about what happened!
What Are Ram Trucks?
Trucks manufactured before 2010 are Dodge Ram trucks. Newer models produced after 2010 are Ram trucks. This is due to the restructuring Chrysler did in 2009 to separate Dodge from Ram. So if you’re looking for a Dodge Ram, you won’t find any new models coming out.
The Ram truck line-up consists of the Ram 1500, Ram 1500 TRX, Ram 1500 Classic, Ram 2500, Ram 3500, Ram Chassis Cab, and trucks for commercial use. The most popular truck, the Ram 1500, starts around $35,900 for the base model. The Ram 1500 Classic is the least expensive option, starting at around $29,515.
Does Dodge Still Make Ram Trucks?
In 2009, Dodge and Ram separated to become two different divisions. Although still produced by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Group (FCA), both are two different brands focusing on two different markets.
Dodge focuses on passenger performance vehicles like the Charger and Challenger, while Ram focuses on capability and commercial vehicles like the Ram 1500 and Ram ProMaster. Dodge will make a sedan, SUV, or passenger van. Ram will make a truck or commercial van.
Why Are Rams No Longer Dodge?
When Chrysler decided to separate the two brands and create unique divisions, it was best for the overall company and the individual brands. Now Dodge can focus primarily on building cars with increased performance and designing the “Hot Wheels” look of the Charger and Challenger and the sporty look of the Durango.
Known as the “Brotherhood of Muscle,” these three vehicles have seen a huge improvement since 2009, when Dodge was able to narrow down its focus.
By giving the truck line-up solely to Ram, this division could focus primarily on capability. Ram trucks and commercial vehicles provide the “workhorse” vehicle many owners need for towing and hauling.
Are Ram Trucks Good Quality?
Ram is the first truck-only brand to earn the number one in overall initial quality award by J.D. Power. Its heavy-duty truck line was recognized for its new vehicle quality in 2021. In 2022, Ram joined with (RED) to help fight healthy emergencies.
Every 2022 RAM 1500 Limited (RAM) RED edition truck supports this initiative. So not only is Ram producing quality, reliable trucks, but the brand is doing its part to serve others.
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What Is the Best Model of Ram Truck?
The most popular model is the Ram 1500 because it’s an everyday vehicle. Most truck owners don’t need the power or capabilities of the 2500 or 3500, so although they’re quality models, there aren’t as many sold.
When outfitted with the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine with eTorque, the Ram 1500 can tow up to 12,750 lbs. So if owners need to tow something every once in a while, the Ram 1500 is still very capable.
About the Ram 1500
At Ram, owners can select from six different trims: the Tradesman, Limited, Limited Longhorn, Laramie, Big Horn, and Rebel. The Tradesman trim is the least expensive option with fewer bells and whistles.
The Ram 1500 Limited starts at $61,695 and is the most expensive base price.
Specs
The Ram 1500 comes with your choice of five different engines: the 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8 engine, 5.7L HEMI V8 engine with eTorque, 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine with eTorque, and the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine. The Supercharged HEMI engine quickly gets you up to speed, achieving 0 to 60mph in just 4.5 seconds. The EcoDiesel engine provides 480 lb-ft of diesel torque and a diesel towing capacity of 12,560lbs.
The 98% high-strength steel frame helps the Ram 1500 achieve its max towing capacity of 12,750 lbs and max payload capacity of 2,300 lbs.
If you want a light-duty truck for towing, the new 2022 Ram 1500 comes equipped with a trailer 360-degree surround-view camera and trailer hitch light to see everything you need to see for safe towing. You can also add the trailer reverse steering control feature.
Features
Safety features include electronic stability control, trailer sway control, electronic roll mitigation, and hill start assist. Another unique feature available to add to your Ram 1500 crew cab is the Active-Level Four Corner Air Suspension. It automatically lowers the truck once it achieves highway speeds to reduce drag and improve efficiency.
Ram 1500 models come with a five-year or 100,000-mile Diesel Powertrain Limited Warranty or a five-year or 60,000-mile Gas Powertrain Limited Warranty. In addition, owners receive a five-year or 100,000-mile Rust-Through Limited Warranty and roadside assistance for that period.
Additional exterior features include power running boards, a multifunction tailgate with 60/40 split swing-away doors, and the RamBox Cargo Management System, including additional storage above the wheel wells and a power outlet. Interior features include a digital rearview mirror, an air filtration system, over 45 inches of rear legroom, and a ten-square-foot panoramic sunroof.
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Are Ram Trucks Worth It?
Ram trucks are some of the best-designed and most reliable trucks today. Because the brand can focus solely on building better trucks and commercial vehicles, it produces top-quality models.
Equipped with the right engine, the Ram 1500 can easily tow a lightweight travel trailer or a flatbed trailer with your landscaping equipment. If you’re looking for a vehicle to get your fishing boat to the lake every weekend this summer, check out the Ram 1500.
Will you go with the luxurious Limited or save a few thousand and buy a Tradesman? Tell us in the comments!
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