2023 Ram 1500

Differences between trims are in the details. Look for chrome, color-matched trim, or even unpainted trim, depending on the version, plus wheel sizes that grow from 18 to 22 inches. 

The cabin is a true standout and remains arguably the best on the market. The dash has plenty of small storage spaces but a no-nonsense look that works well compared to the flashier Toyota Tundra. 

Base Tradesman models live up to their work-ready billing with plenty of black plastic. Spend more and Ram starts to swap in soft-touch materials with contrasting stitching and more luxurious trim finishes. A Laramie Limited borders on Western kitsch, but manages to look just right.

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.

Extended cabs have small rear doors that reveal a tight bench with an upright rear seatback. Crew cabs have true stretch-out space. 

Bed lengths include a 5-foot-7 option and a bigger 6-foot-4 box in select configurations. As standard, Ram simply paints the bed. You’ll pay extra for covers, spray- or drop-in liners, lighting, and additional tie-downs. A trick tailgate option can either drop down conventionally, swing open as a single unit, or open in two pieces via a non-centered split. It’s neat, but maybe not all that useful for some drivers. Storage bins integrated into the bed sides are also optional.

Other options typically reserved for costlier trucks include blind-spot monitors, adaptive cruise control, head-up display, and active lane control. Ram does not offer any hands-free assistance tech.

The Ram starts at around $39,000 in Tradesman guise, but it’s worth noting that there’s no regular cab truck as in some competitors. That model comes with cloth seats, power features, and a 5.0-inch touchscreen.

A 3-year/36,000-mile warranty is par for the big truck course. 

Which Ram 1500 should I buy?

Most buyers will probably step up to the Big Horn (known in Texas as the Lone Star) for closer to $44,000. It’s worth the splurge thanks to its 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, alloy wheels, and chrome trim, plus it’s the gateway to various other niceties.

We’d load ours up with a limited-slip rear differential, power front seats and rear window, heated seats, and a package containing automatic emergency braking. With four-wheel drive, that puts the Ram 1500 at around $55,000. 

A Ram 1500 Lariat isn’t that much more, though, if you want leather seats and access to high-zoot audio, adaptive cruise control, and a few other features. It doesn’t take too long to top $70,000, though. 

How much is a fully loaded Ram 1500?

Work your way through myriad trim levels and you could find yourself with a loaded $105,000-or-so Ram 1500 TRX. 

Ram fuel economy ratings can vary greatly based on the trim level, body style, and individual options, so shop carefully.

Models with the 3.6-liter V-6 are rated as high as 19 mpg city, 24 highway, 21 combined with four-wheel drive, or 22 mpg combined with rear-wheel drive. The 5.7-liter V-8 checks in at 18/22/19 mpg with four-wheel drive. TRX models average just 12 mpg combined, Ram says.

The automaker says to use premium fuel in a TRX and recommends mid-grade for the 5.7-liter V-8.