We drove a $63,000 RAM 1500 pickup truck to see why it's part of America's latest obsession â here's the verdict (FCAU)
OK, I look a little frowny. But I'm happy inside! I think it was just the awful Northeast weather of the past month weighing on my soul. Don't blame the RAM 1500!
This pickup is an absolute joy to drive, mainly because unlike the Ford and Chevy trucks that sell ahead of it, the RAM has a far more compliant suspension. In the case of our 1500 Limited tester, a four-corner air suspension that makes the truck feel as if it's floating on a sea of power. The Fords and Chevys still have tough leaf-spring suspension, and some truck owners prefer that. RAM went to something more easygoing a while ago, and for some folks, it will be preferable.
I sure liked it. But it doesn't make the truck feel overly domesticated. There is a big old iron-block Hemi V8 under the hood, and when you stand on the accelerator, that motor roars to life. Accelerating from 0-30 mph in the 1500 is as much fun as savoring the 0-60mph run, which passes is about seven seconds.
Brawn notwithstanding, it truly is the level of refinement that the RAM 1500 brings to the segment that helps it stand out, even as Ford and Chevy/GMC sell more trucks. RAM has carved out far more than niche at number three and isn't dropping the ball when it comes to what its loyalist expect.
The RAM 1500 Limited Crew Cab 4x4 proves that a truck lover can have it all: power, styling, capability, and comfort. We're very much looking forward to the all-new 2019 version.
