2006 Dodge Ram 1500 Walkaround Review at Automotive.com
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2006 Dodge Ram 1500 Review: Exterior

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2006 Dodge Ram 1500 Review

Re-engineered with new frame and fresh styling.
Walkaround
The Dodge Ram presents a bold, distinctive appearance with its big horse-collar grille and Freightliner fenders. The basic look dates back a dozen years, but it received a major redesign for 2002, and now a more subtle makeover for '06. New headlamps cut back deeper into the fenders, and a flattened front bumper on Sport and Laramie looks even more big-rig-like than before. Dodge claims the new lights are improved 22 percent in intensity and 40 percent in beam spectrum. A slot in the front bumper aids engine cooling and air conditioner performance.

Ram's trademark front grille has been recontoured slightly to fit the new bumper, but it remains one of the most instantly recognizable front ends on the road. A thick band of chrome surrounds the grille on ST, SLT and Laramie; the band is body color on Sport models and grey on Work Specials. The broad, sloping hood has a pronounced crown that falls over the sides to the prominent front fenders.

Moving rearward, the Ram continues to present a robust appearance. A fast, raked-back windshield enhances aerodynamics and water management, while gracefully blending modern sleekness with Ram's retro lower body. The leading edge of the front door overlaps the A-pillar, creating a smooth transition from the front of the cab to the side. Everything is smooth and integrated. The big side mirrors, great for visibility, are mounted on platforms to minimize wind noise, and a channel has been specially designed to keep water off of the mirrors. A small spoiler at the top of the tailgate, new for '06, is said to improve fuel efficiency.

Rams sit relatively high off the ground, particularly the four-wheel-drive models. Tailgate load height is 34-1/2 inches on four-wheel-drive models, 33 inches with two-wheel-drive. That seems high when trying to heave heavy gear aboard. All beds are fitted with boat cleats designed to handle 1,000 pounds each.

SRT-10 features a body-color grille surround surmounted by a hungry-looking hood scoop. Additionally, SRT-10 boasts its own front bumper, which looks lighter and less truckish than the standard unit and features its own gaping, air-gulping opening. A body-color aluminum tonneau cover for the pickup bed, outfitted with a unique spoiler for aerodynamic efficiency, is standard for 2006. Gas struts help in raising and lowering the tonneau cover for easy access to the pickup bed, which features a bed tray for protecting bed and cargo. Next Page



2006 Dodge Ram 1500
  
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