Overview & Reviews

For decades, the Ram was Dodge's iconic full-size pickup. Starting in 2011, however, parent company Chrysler decided to make the Ram name an actual brand. So, yes, this truck's name is now just Ram, with 1500 added on to specify its status as the half-ton truck in the lineup. There are 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty models as well.

Current Ram 1500
The Ram 1500 is a full-size truck offered in three body styles -- regular cab, extended cab ("Quad Cab") and crew cab. The regular cab can be had with either a 6-foot-4-inch bed or an 8-foot version. The extended cab comes only with the 6-foot-4 bed. The Ram's crew cab model provides the most interior room but comes only with a 5-foot-7-inch bed.

There are three trim levels: base ST, midlevel SLT and top-shelf Laramie. The ST is pretty basic, but you still get air-conditioning and a full complement of safety features including stability control, antilock brakes and side curtain airbags. Naturally, moving up to the SLT or Laramie will get you more standard equipment. Notable options include "RamBox" storage bins mounted on the sides of the bed, a TRX off-road package and rear entertainment and navigation systems.

For engines, the Ram 1500 starts out with a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 215 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic is standard. The standard engine on the four-wheel-drive Ram ST and all SLT models is a 4.7-liter V8 coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission. Output is a healthy 310 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque. Standard on the Laramie trim and optional on the SLT is a 5.7-liter V8 with a five-speed auto. Output is 390 hp and 407 lb-ft of torque.

In reviews, we've found that this truck excels as a daily-use pickup. A major contributor to this is the truck's coil-spring rear suspension, which significantly enhances ride quality over broken pavement. Another benefit is the roomy and well-appointed interior. The crew cab's rear seat is very comfortable, offering loads of legroom and an agreeable seatback rake. There's also lots of storage space, and the optional RamBox storage bins are pretty cool, though in testing we've found them to be lacking in terms of durability. On the road, the Ram 1500 provides plenty of grunt for towing and hauling when fitted with either V8; the underpowered V6 should be avoided.

Used Ram 1500 Models
The new Ram 1500 name came into being for 2011. In reality, though, it's just the next model year of what was formerly the fourth-generation Dodge Ram. For more information on the Dodge version and its previous generations, please read our Dodge Ram review.

User Reviews:

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  New Truck Just Quit - 2013 RAM 1500
  By qaz2 - November 3 - 9:01 pm

  We bought the RAM 1500 in Feb 2013. It ran great for 9000 miles, averaging 22 mpg city/25 mpg highway. On a trip to the Florida Keys, the "check engine" symbol was displayed flashing and the truck automatically shut down while we were traveling at 60 mph on a busy highway. VERY unsafe condition. We finally were towed to a dealership. They replaced an ignition coil. Five miles later it happened again. Had to get towed once again. Dealership found that it was a short in the wiring bundle. Problem finally fixed. Overall cost to us - $400 (rental cars, hotels, etc.). Called RAM to see if they would provide some compensation, and they said sorry about that. Nice support there.

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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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  4th Dodge Ram in 8 years - 2014 RAM 1500
  By houdini1957 - February 24 - 4:56 pm

  I should be doing a commercial for Arrigo as this is the 6 vehicle I have purchased from them in 8 years. I had a 06 Ram 1500. Traded it for a 09 Ram 1500. I didnt like the truck. Loved the way it looked, hated the way it road. Talked to John Arrigo during my first oil change and I ended up buying a new (leftover) 08 3500 Diesel Dually. Loved the truck but wasnt using it for the things it was intended for enough. Sold it. Just purchased this truck a few months ago. Got the basic Tradesman with the 5.7 liter Hemi. Great truck! Pulls my 6x12 enclosed trailer with my HD Road King and gear like nothing is behind it at all. Quiet, well put together and made for work.

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  2011 dodge ram - 2011 RAM 1500
  By jarhead83 - February 16 - 12:57 am

  I have had my truck for 3 months have about 4700 miles on it truck gets good mileage 16-21 5.7 hemi 4x2 slt bighorn but for the bad news the truck has been in the shop 4 times since I have had it 2 for the paint 2 for my power back glass leaking still do not know if it is fixed waiting a few days to wash again but know it will be going back as soon as the shop opens go in this morning it started and no gauges worked windshield wipers came on and would not cut off windows will not roll down radio will only cut off if you turn it off even with switch off so this will make 5 times in 3 months of which I owned the truck I like the look the power but man at the problems Im having

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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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  Beware - 2013 RAM 1500
  By rexer - August 19 - 4:35 am

  I bought a brand new 2013 RAM 1500 and must admit that it was my first brand new purchase for a vehicle. I got a couple blocks away from the dealership when all of a sudden steam and smoke started pouring out from under the hood. I looked down at the temp guage and it was slightly below the red mark. I pulled over and popped the hood and found a rad hose not attached to engine. I called the dealership who sent a tech out to meet me (later found out that the hose is given a plastic peice at the factory to assit in assembly and it was never removed causing the hose to fall off under pressure). I spoke with the dealership and Chrysler Canada and was told too bad basically, your stuck with it.

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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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  Best Truck on the market. - 2012 RAM 1500
  By nclemons1985 - April 6 - 7:04 am

  Bought a Dakota 4.7L 4WD. Traded it in 4 months later for a 2012 4WD Ram with a Hemi. Right off the bat I noticed a huge difference between this truck and the others I have owned in the past. More power than I need. Which is a good thing. It accelerates and tows up a hill like it is not there. Very comfortable ride. I barely noticed bumps in the road I noticed with my Dakota. Its the smoothest shifting vehicle I have ever driven. My girlfriend didnt understand the big deal until she drove it herself. Now she wants a Ram. She hated trucks before she drove it. My favorite part: More power than Ford, Toyota, Nissan, GMC and Chevy yet priced better.

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  2011 Dodge Larimie - 2011 RAM 1500
  By Dave - February 15 - 2:00 am

  More decedent than any other vehicle I owned (have had several trucks, including 95 and 03 Dodge 2500 Diesels.) My main interest was the ram box, which limited my choices - crew only. From there I loaded it up cause I could. (A heated steering wheel is over the top, but being storing over 4200 songs on the HD is cool, since I have almost that many.) It fits a certain niche. Ram box allows me to store everything I need to carry in the boxes, and keep the cab clean. Managing about 16 mpg avg. Love the sun roof. Leather. This is an old mans truck (which I am). Better for towing (9500) than hauling (1200). Pretty and comfy - works for me. Only 750 mi so far, no mechanical to report.