2007 Dodge Ram 1500: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

An available antiskid system and remote engine start top the list of 2007 additions to Dodge's large pickup truck. This report covers the half-ton Ram 1500 model. It offers a 2-dr regular cab and two 4-dr crew cabs--the Quad Cab and the Mega Cab. The Mega's cab is 20 inches longer than the Quad Cab's. Regular and Quad Cab offer 6.3- and 8-ft cargo beds; Mega Cab uses the 6.3-ft bed. Regular cabs seat up to three passengers, the others up to six.

Ram is available with three engines: a V6, a 4.7-liter V8, and Chrysler's 5.7-liter Hemi V8. In all models, the Hemi has Dodge's Multi-Displacement System cylinder deactivation. The V6 and 4.7 V8 are available with manual or automatic transmission, the Hemi V8 with automatic only.

ST, SLT, and top-line Laramie trim is offered. The high-performance SRT10 is discontinued for 2007. All Rams are available with rear-wheel drive or with 4-wheel drive that should not be left engaged on dry pavement. Optional for SLT and Laramie is all-wheel drive. The 4WD and AWD systems include low-range gearing. Rear ABS is standard; 4-wheel ABS is available. Curtain side airbags that cover all seating rows are optional. Also available: power-adjustable pedals, wireless cell phone link, DVD entertainment, and navigation system. Quad Cabs are available with power running boards.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Pickup Trucks are traditionally the vehicles of choice for heavy-duty hauling and towing. They offer an array of cab styles and bed lengths and usually feature powerful V8 or diesel engines. For personal use, consider light-duty half-ton models. For heavy-duty or commercial use, consider three-quarter- or one-ton models.

We have no Best Buys in this class. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Classic, Ford F-150, and GMC Sierra 1500 Classic.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Toyota Tundra.