Constant updates, bold styling, and a wide variety of trims and powertrain configurations have kept Ram’s 1500 at the top of consumers minds since this generation as introduced in 2009. From its available air suspension and coil sprung rear axle, to its active aerodynamics and available turbodiesel engine, it continues to take an innovative take to the traditional half-ton workhorse.
For 2016, Ram continues to improve the 1500 with a series of changes and a pair of new trim levels to increase its appeal to savvy truck buyers. A redesigned centre console is now standard on all models; it features a clever sliding bin with mobile tech mounts. Also new are LED lamps for the cargo box.
Ram offers the 1500 with a choice of three different engines. The 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 is standard on most trims; it makes 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. A 5.7-litre Hemi V8 is the only eight-cylinder on offer and it develops 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. While GM and Nissan offer diesel-powered trucks in the compact and three-quarter-ton segments, Ram is the only brand to feature diesel power in the half-ton sector. Its Italian-made 3.0-litre turbodiesel makes 240 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque – and gives Ram the title of the segment’s most fuel-efficient pickup. Both V6s use an eight-speed automatic; the V8 uses either a six-speed or an eight-speed automatic. All are controlled via a console-mounted rotary shift knob.
Body configurations for the Ram 1500 include regular cab with 6’4” or 8’ bed, Quad Cab with a 6’4” bed, and Crew Cab with a 5’7” or 6’4” bed. Towing capacity ranges from 1,891-4,826 kg; payload from 631-857 kg.
One of two new trim levels for 2016, the Laramie Limited is aimed at the modern urban truck buyer. It offers premium leather, Argento wood, navigation, heated rear seats, standard air suspension, automatic wipers and headlamps, chrome wheels, and a unique grille. It is available exclusively in the Crew Cab configuration with either the 5.7-litre Hemi V8 or the 3.0-litre EcoDiesel V6.
On the other hand, the Rebel is the bad boy of the family. Though not quite as potent as the F-150 Raptor, it is the most capable Ram 1500 off road with tough Bilstein shocks, thick skid plates, all-terrain Toyo tires, black fender flares, and a unique cloth and vinyl interior trim. It too gets unique visuals, including different bumpers, a bold grille, and a different hood. The Rebel is available with either the Pentastar V6 or the Hemi V8.
Ram prices start at $31,095 for the ST 4x2, and go up to $62,495 for the Laramie Limited.
