2008 Dodge Ram 1500: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 gets a more powerful V8 engine and is scheduled for a redesign due in calendar 2008 as a 2009 model. This large pickup truck offers a 2-door regular cab and two 4-door 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-foot cargo beds; Mega Cab uses the 6.3-foot bed. Regular cabs seat up to three passengers, the others up to six.

Ram 1500 is available with three engines: a 215-hp 3.7-liter V6; a new 310-hp 4.7-liter V8; and a 345-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V8. The 310-hp V8 replaces a 235-hp 4.7. The V6 and 4.7 V8 are available with manual or automatic transmission; the Hemi has an automatic only. Ram's maximum towing capacity is 3400 lb with V6, 7300 with 4.7 V8, and 8750 with 5.7. ST, SXT, SLT, and top-line Laramie trims are offered. 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 a low-range gear for off-roading. Available safety features include ABS, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. Also available are 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, Ford F-150, GMC Sierra 1500, and Toyota Tundra.