Overview & Reviews

Ram is a recently formed subdivision of Chrysler. Its lineup consists chiefly of full-size pickups that were formerly called Dodge Rams. This offshoot brand was created in 2009 as part of a reorganization by Fiat, Chrysler's new owner, to increase awareness for the company's trucks. It all became official for the 2011 model year. The slightly renamed vehicles didn't change, and as such Ram trucks and vehicles are well suited for both work and play.

The Ram name itself was first used back in 1981 on Dodge's then-redesigned pickup trucks. Previously, Dodge pickups had more typical (and mundane) naming conventions, with a letter indicating drivetrain, and numbers indicating capacity. For example, a Dodge D150 was a two-wheel-drive ("D"), half-ton ("150") pickup, whereas a Dodge W150 was a four-wheel-drive ("W") half-ton pickup.

Though the Dodge Ram offered cab styles (standard and extended), powertrain options (inline-6,, V8, turbodiesel) and features similar to its Ford and Chevy competitors, it always trailed them in the sales race. A complete redesign for 1994 gave the Ram pickup line a huge boost in image and popularity. The aggressive styling -- featuring a big-rig-style grille and flared fenders -- was a huge factor in the Ram's increased appeal. Highlights for this generation included the debut of the popular Quad Cab with its reverse-opening rear doors that eased the loading of passengers and cargo. The Quad Cab (along with more luxury features) also signified the ever increasing use of pickup trucks as daily drivers and family vehicles.

Another redesign of the Ram pickup took place for 2002 (2003 for the heavy-duty models), giving sharper edges to the truck's already macho styling, which was backed up with the debut of the burly 5.7-liter Hemi V8. The current version of the Ram 1500 was introduced for 2009, boasting a much-improved interior as well as a unique coil-spring rear suspension. The latter offers notably more refined handling and ride characteristics compared to the more traditional leaf-spring setup used on the Ram's rivals.

In addition to the popular full-size Ram pickup lineup detailed above, the Ram brand also incorporates the midsize Dakota pickup as well as the Dodge Grand Caravan-based Ram C/V (Cargo Van).

User Reviews:

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  Ram Limited 4x4 - 2012 RAM 1500
  By efs101 - June 15 - 11:01 am

  This is the first true truck(non-SUV) I"ve owned. Got it for towing, but needed something appropriate for office. Man does this thing fit the bill. Sharp and functional. Fantastic, smooth ride, and it responds almost effortlessly when you hit the accelerator. As comfortable as most luxury cars. After test driving Ford and GMC equivlents, for me this was an easy choice. This is simply a better looking, more comfortable ride. Yes I gave up a few 100 lbs towing capacity to other choices, but premium ride is worth the trade-off.

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  2011 Ram Hemi Express - 2011 RAM 1500
  By 2011hemiexpres - March 7 - 2:02 pm

  Bought 11 Hemi Express 2WD new at Dealership 3 mos ago.(9/2011) Was Ad truck at @ $19,500 with ST package on top of Express Package. Does not have limited slip or carpet. Has 3.21 rear gear. Have 6k miles. Typically get 16 mpg combined. High of 17.7 low of 14.2 Its been great so far, Im a big dodge fan after owing a 06 SRT8 charger & 02 2500 4wd V10 The truck is tight and lacks any rattles or moans. Hemi has lots of performance and with 5 speed auto with VVT and 2nd Gen. Cylinder De Activation its a seemless and modern power plant. Perfect platform for customizing thanks to Ram group and Stacy David of Gearz for the inspiration. Disc brakes are great and interior is quiet & comfortable.

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  Great Truck - 2011 RAM 2500
  By kymidnight - December 2 - 7:13 pm

  Mine is a Cummins 6.7L, w/ 6sp A/T but I couldnt find that as an option on the drop down menu. I love this truck. Its big and sits up high, but doesnt drive or feel unwealdy. Fits nicely in the lane and tracks down the road. Ride is a little bouncy, but for a heavy duty truck, is the best Ive ever ridden in. The interior is simple but nice and well thought out. Im currently getting around 16MPG mixed city/highway, which is pretty good for a truck of this size. I got the truck for work, not for a commuter, but I enjoy driving it so much, I look for an excuse to take the truck.

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  THE Best Truck on the Market Today - Bar None!!! - 2015 RAM 1500
  By jammer10 - November 11 - 12:22 am

  I ordered my 2015 Ram 1500 Laramie, 4x4, quad cab with the V6 Pentastar motor and I have had it since February 2015. I have air suspension, Ram boxes, convenience package, sunroof, skid plates, navigation and 3.55 gears in the rear axle. I love this truck! I did a ton of research on all truck brands and it came down to this truck or the 2015 F150 with the 2.7L V6. In my opinion the configuration of this truck - the V6 Pentastar with 3.55 gears, and 4x4. Is the best drive train on the market. With 4,600 miles on the truck I am averaging 32 MPH and 19.6 miles to the gallon!!!

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  ram express - 2012 RAM 1500
  By express74 - September 15 - 2:21 pm

  I just picked up this 2012 ram 1500 with express package last week. Power windows, locks, st package with cloth 3.55 gears. I am completely impressed with this truck. My last 3 cars a 2004 mustang gt, 2005 mustang gt and 2009 vw gti. in comparison this truck is FASTER than the 04 gt and the gti while getting similar mileage. mds works great, i would never notice the switch between 8 and 4 if not for the little eco light on the dash. the ride and handling are excellent as is the refinement. interior design is well thought out and materials are high quality nearly equal to the gti(they are known for interior quality) the sound system is amazing for a "basic" truck, good sound quality and volume, low distortion. there are lots of cubbies and storage areas that my last cars lacked. 7 cup holders up front! the styling is very aggressive and handsome. I have modified most of my past cars but i cant think of anything i would change. the 20" wheels look great but may be hard to keep clean. I am blown away at the value of this truck. its amazing you can purchase this combination for such a low price. a few years ago a ford lighting offered similar performance, power to weight ratio for literally double the price or more, yet lacked the comfort and refinement available in this ram. if you havent driven one GO NOW TO THE DEALER! every other truck on the market rides like a horse and carriage and none of them have the HEMI.

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  2500 Diesel - 2011 RAM 2500
  By 2500_diesel - April 7 - 2:25 am

  Best 3/4 ton on the road. Comfortable, Nice styling cues, Ergonomic designed cabin. Everything is at your finger tips, Great in cabin storage as well. Not to mention you do NOT need DEF Fluid, Fuel mileage on this monster has been better than expected. It turns heads everywhere i go. Drive one and you will understand. This truck can handle the farm or a nice night out on the town. Its really hard to find a flaw with this new truck, Ram Trucks hit this one out of the ballpark.

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  Ram 1500 3.6L V6 10,000 Mile Review - 2014 RAM 1500
  By mjmahaffy - October 2 - 8:34 am

  I leased a 4 door, 4x4 Ram 1500 with the 3.6L V6 about 10 month ago. I drive it as my daily commuter to work and use it for small projects around our property. Average fuel economy is about 20MPG in mostly highway driving which I think is fantastic for a full size 4x4 truck. It hasnt been to the dealership for anything other than the initial oil change and tire rotation.

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  Exceeds My Expectations - 2014 RAM 1500
  By jbowen52 - July 31 - 6:33 am

  This is my first truck. Previously had a Cadillac SRX and other crossover type vehicles. Decided most of what we did was hauling stuff. We were surprised to end up with truck. It is just as described in the reviews. Comfortable, quiet, solid and gets better mileage than the SRX. Solid 23 MPG from Washington, DC to CT. Averages 20+MPG in daily driving, incredible for a full size truck. Being my first truck, the Fun To Drive category isnt really there. While good for a truck, it isnt up to the handling of the SRX. Still I knew that going in. The V6 does a great job, hauls my camper and boats. I tested the Hemi, but it didnt seem to need it. Very happy so far.

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  Ram Hemi Express 1500 - 2012 RAM 1500
  By bonham5 - July 11 - 11:47 am

  The Ram Hemi Express... What a deal! Purchased my deep cherry red Express during Dodge Truck Month. I wanted a sripped down version but when I spotted this loaded jewel on the lot I took it. $21,400 out the door! Best bang and performance for the buck one can find in a new vehicle. Blistering performance with the very potent Hemi. Most comfortable vehicle Ive ever owned. Flawless operation in 7 months and 7000 miles since purchase.

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  Excellent Truck! - 2013 RAM 2500
  By quicksilver10 - May 29 - 4:43 am

  Bought a new 2013 Ram 6.7L and love it supper over kill for my little boat but it does the job and more. I have had no problems up to now and gas mileage is around 20MPG in the San Antonio metro area not BAD! I will buy this truck again. Interior looks amazing they did skimp on the very fine details but its almost unnoticeable. Good truck probably the best for money and value.