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.