2003 Dodge Ram 1500: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The midyear return of Chrysler's fabled Hemi V8 engine highlights 2003 for Dodge's full-size pickup. This report covers the half-ton Ram 1500 models, which offer two body styles: a 2-dr regular cab and the Quad Cab 4-dr crew cab. Both come in ST and uplevel SLT trim and with cargo beds of 6.3 ft or 8 ft. A 40/20/40 split bench is the only front seat available. Quad Cabs offer a folding 3-passenger rear bench. Front and rear curtain side airbags are optional for both cabs.

The base engine is a 3.7-liter V6. V8s of 4.7 and 5.7 liters are available. The 5.7 is the Hemi, named for its hemispherically shaped combustion chambers. Its ancestors were last used in early 1970s Chrysler muscle cars. Available as an option on all models, the 345-hp Hemi replaces a 245-hp 5.9 V8 in the Ram lineup. It comes only with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The V6 and 4.7 V8 offer manual transmission or a 4- or 5-speed automatic, respectively. All Rams are available with rear-wheel drive or 4WD that must be disengaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. 4WD Rams have independent front suspension. Four-wheel disc brakes with rear ABS are standard; 4-wheel ABS is optional. SLT models offer power-adjustable pedals with both manual and automatic transmission. Standard 17-inch wheels and optional 20s are available. New for '03: a Work Special package as a $400 credit option for ST models, an optional Off-Road Group for 4WD SLTs, and a name change from SLT Plus to Laramie for Ram's top-line trim-option package.

COMPETITION

With the advent of crossover vehicles, this segment has become less defined. Once the domain of work-related heavy-duty pickups, buyers are now demanding that their full-size trucks do double duty. Our Best Buys remain Chevy Silverado, Ford F-150, and GMC Sierra. These trucks offer a wide range of powertrain combinations, plenty of luxury accommodations, and ample towing power--though the GM twins are the only ones to offer full-time 4WD and convenient 4-wheel steering.

Big-rig-styled Dodge Ram matches the new Ford and GM models in most aspects but can't match their ride comfort or civility. We also like the expensive Toyota Tundra. What it lacks in brute strength, it more than makes up for with refined road manners.