Ram 1500

The Ram 1500 truck is our highest rated light pickup since the launch of this latest generation in 2019. It sets the bar very high in terms of technological integration, quality of interior materials  and ride comfort, offering strong towing and hauling capabilities at the same time. For 2021, however, the competition is significantly tougher - the 2021 Ford F150 has been completely redesigned. Ram doesn't just give up his crown without a fight. This year's 1500 receives optional new technology features like a driver's head-up display, an available digital rearview mirror, a new performance and readings via the 12 inch touchscreen and a trailer reverse control system that drives the truck for you as you steer your trailer into your parking lot. Small potatoes, you say? OK, what about the all new Ram 1500 TRX? It features a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 that produces 702 horsepower and 650 pounds of torque. It's a lot of rust. Ram says the TRX can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds - a surprising number for a rugged pickup  like this. But that's not all. The TRX also features wide fenders, 35-inch tires,  specialized suspension, a reinforced chassis, and a 2-inch lift frame, all for enhanced off-road performance at high speeds.

With a potential price tag approaching $ 100,000, a fully loaded TRX is definitely not for everyone. Then again, that's the beauty of a full-size truck - there is a version to meet virtually any need, want, and budget. Do you want  to know more? Check out our expert review below for our team's full review of the 2021 Ram 1500's performance, comfort, towing capacity and more.

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds bought a Ram 1500 and drove it for two years and nearly 50,000 miles. To learn more about our experiences, read our long-term review of the Ram 1500. We cover everything from seat comfort to  fuel economy and real-world durability. Note that we tested a 2019 Ram 1500 but this and the 2021 truck are  the same generation so most of our observations still apply.

Our verdict    8.4 / 10

The Ram 1500 offers exceptionally smooth ride modes thanks to its distinct rear suspension design. In addition, the  exclusive interior is highlighted by the optional 12-inch infotainment screen. Both V6 and V8  are  solid choices, but the re-introduced second-generation EcoDiesel V6 has even more.

How does the 1500 drive?  8.5

Our test truck had the V8 engine and an eight-speed transmission. They work so well together that we can only recommend this truck on this basis. It is strong and  easy to ride in almost any situation. Much of the same can  be said for the recently reintroduced EcoDiesel powertrain, especially if you appreciate the pulling power of the diesel pair. But the Ram isn't limited to solid powertrain choices. We've tested plenty of Ram setups and they all impress us with their consistent steering, safe braking and safe handling. Ram's 10-year decision to ditch leaf springs and switch to coil-spring rear suspension continues to pay off. We are surprised that no one has followed his example.

How comfortable is the 1500?    8.5

Wind and road noise is minimal, especially with higher trim levels. Even the rumble of the V8 only provides  a calming soundtrack unless you decide to open it up. The Ram 1500 skillfully soaks up various road imperfections and does so without the rough ride you normally expect from a lightweight pickup. The front seats are well designed to provide comfort and support over long distances, and this is also true for the entry-level Tradesman. The rear bench seat also has a nice back angle and tilts surprisingly in the top trims. We also like the Ram 1500's efficient air conditioning system, which offers central rear air conditioning vents even though you have three transverse front seats.

How’s the interior?    8.5

The interior of the Ram 1500's double cab is a pleasant place to spend some time. The doors open wide for an easy entry and all four doors have their own sturdy, well-placed handles. For the driver, there are easy-to-access controls and an unobstructed view of the road. Passengers in any seat will find plenty of head, leg and shoulder room. The cabin is spacious, and the Ram has more  legroom and rear foot room than competing trucks. Even though the rearview mirror is a bit small, the  large windows and clever hood design of the Aries contribute to the overall outward visibility.

How’s the tech?    8.5

The optional 12-inch touchscreen is a dazzling addition to any vehicle, let alone a pickup truck. It offers a huge map and crisp graphics. The 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system is also impressive and offers navigation. Both have multiple USB and USBC ports, as well as compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphones. Meanwhile, the Tradesman's 5-inch screen  has the basics. Ram unfortunately does not include any driver assistance functions as standard equipment. The Laramie model and beyond offer parking assist sensors, forward collision mitigation and lane departure. When equipped, adaptive cruise control does a good job of bringing the truck  to a complete stop.Automated parking assistance is available and  works very well.

How are the towing and storage?    9.0

The towing ratings, especially for  diesel, are sturdy for this class. With the V8 or  diesel engine, the most common configurations of the Ram 1500 can pull over 11,000 pounds, and some exceed 12,000 pounds. optional RamBox locking bins integrated into the side of the bed are useful for stowing tools or towing gear. There is also an optional two-way tailgate that can open down or out like the doors. 

Internal storage  is another area where the truck shines. Its center console is huge and highly configurable. The Ram can be ordered with storage compartments hidden  in the rear floor, under the rear seats, or in the back cushions themselves. The rear seat folds down into a room or  60/40 split top coverings.

How’s the fuel economy?    8.0

Ram's mixed city / two-lane gasoline financial system goes, for the most part, from underage to young adults through 20 years of age dependent on the engine and whether or not you have rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. But the EcoDiesel V6 is the  big name for the mpg here. With rear-wheel drive, it emits an expected mix of 26 mpg EPA. With the optional 33-gallon tank, it can cover approximately 1,000 dual-track miles on a single fill. Our 4WD control truck with the diesel comes in at 24.2 mpg common over 923 miles of mixed drive control.

Is the 1500 a good value?    7.5

The Ram 1500's build quality feels at first glance and looks great, especially in the more high-end trim levels like Big Horn, Laramie and beyond. However, after spending some  time in a long-term test truck, we saw some parts failing, revealing substandard quality than we initially perceived. However, the prices of rams remain quite competitive. The Ram's engine choices are largely independent of trim, so you don't have to spend more on a big engine if you want a fuel-efficient V6 in a well-finished truck. On the flip side, you can also buy the top notch diesel in something like a Tradesman work truck, a unique move that makes it a bargain on diesel over the competition. You won't find anything more than regular warranty coverage, but that's not a bad thing.

Wildcard    8.5

The Ram 1500 is a smart, civilized truck that drives like no other in its class, thanks in large part to its independent rear suspension, which makes it a pleasure to drive and  an unusual smooth ride. give you more off-road potential without a real loss of comfort.
 Once known for its big rig styling, the Ram 1500 is now more sleek and aerodynamic. , where the Ram impresses with a good appearance that is logically laid out and exudes quality. And the 12-inch screen and reclining rear seat never get old.

While we'd love to recommend the fully bonkers off-road TRX model to all Ram 1500 buyers, we know it's not the practical pickup that most buyers will need. Instead, the Laramie should work out well for most Ram buyers. It comes with some desirable standard equipment such as an 8.4-inch touchscreen and heated and ventilated front seats. It also gives you access to optional tech and safety features that aren't available on the Tradesman or the Big Horn.

A 3.6-liter V6 engine (305 hp, 269 lb-ft). It comes with Ram's eTorque system, which is a mild hybrid system that slightly improves fuel economy and smoother stopping and starting the engine. A 5.7-liter V8 (395 hp, 410 lb-ft) with or without eTorque A 3.0-liter turbocharged, V6 with diesel engine (260 hp, 480 lb-ft) A supercharged 6.2-liter V8 (702 hp, 650 lb-ft) ) exclusive to the new TRX) All Ram 1500s are equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission.For most part of the 1500s, the Reave reader is standard and the four-leaved clover is optional.60/40 split folding rear seat

Ram 1500 models

The real quantum leap with  Big Horn and Lone Star comes in the  available options, which include: 4-inch or 12-inch touchscreen Integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphones If you appreciate off-road capabilities, Rebel relies on  Big Horn equipment with: More aggressive styling LED exterior lighting Upgraded shocks and suspension  and larger off-road tires Hill descent control and four underbody skid plates RAM electronically locking rear axle takes a sharp turn to luxury with the Laramie saddlery.Standard equipment builds on the Big Horn and adds: 4-inch touchscreen Power mirrors and power rear window Leather trim Heated and ventilated front seats Front collision mitigation (warns  of an impending collision and applies  brakes in some scenarios) 
●    A 3.6-liter V6 engine (305 hp, 269 lb-ft). It comes with Ram's eTorque system, which is a mild hybrid system that slightly improves fuel economy and engine stop-start smoothness.
●    A 5.7-liter V8 (395 hp, 410 lb-ft) with or without eTorque
●    A diesel-powered turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (260 hp, 480 lb-ft)
●    Exclusive to the new TRX is a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 (702 hp, 650 lb-ft)

All Ram 1500s come with an eight-speed automatic transmission. For most 1500s, rear-wheel drive is standard and four-wheel drive is optional.

The real quantum leap with  Big Horn and Lone Star comes in the  available options, which include: 4-inch or 12-inch touchscreen Integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphones If you appreciate off-road capabilities, Rebel relies on  Big Horn equipment with: More aggressive styling LED exterior lighting Upgraded shocks and suspension  and larger off-road tires Hill descent control and four underbody skid plates RAM electronically locking rear axle takes a sharp turn to luxury with the Laramie saddlery.Standard equipment builds on the Big Horn and adds: 4-inch touchscreen Power mirrors and power rear window Leather trim Heated and ventilated front seats Front collision mitigation (warns  of an impending collision and applies  brakes in some scenarios) 

Meanwhile, the Longhorn increases the luxury quotient with: Side steps Heated reclining rear seats and compartment under the rear seat Navigator and satellite radioFront and rear parking sensors Spray in the bedspread and interior lighting The luxurious Limited receives the 5.7-liter V8 as standard and  adds all kinds of stylish equipment and accessories including: height) Charging mat wireless Premium leather bucket seats Electrically extendable footrests Blind spot monitoring (warns if a vehicle in the next lane  is in your blind spot) and rear cross traffic warning and # 40; warns you if a vehicle behind you is about to cross the path of your vehicle while it is in reverse and # 41;Right above the pile comes the all new TRX. While the Rebel is suited for off-roading, the TRX seems to have mud running through its veins. It is based on the Limited and standard equipment includes the 6.2-liter supercharged  V8 engine.

Bilstein adaptive shocks with remote reservoirs, 2-inch suspension lift 35-inch off-road tires, Upgraded brakes Dana 60 rigid rear axle Electronic locking differential, Five underbody protection plates Start control and real-time access to performance data via a 12-inch screen. Many features on the upper skins are available on the lower skins as an option. Other key optional features include:Reverse steering control (use of a dash mounted button controls the truck's steering wheel in a direction that will drive a trailer to a desired location) Digital rearview mirror Head-up display Wireless device charging RamBox luggage storage Dual-pane panoramic sunroof 33 gallons fuel tank 19 speakers. Harman Kardon audio system Finally, the optional Advanced Safety Group  package gives you: Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the Ram 1500 and the car in front)SourceView Video Camera System and N ° 40;