2007 Dodge Ram 1500 in Sherman Oaks, California

For full-size pickup buyers, these are the good old days. Never before have trucks been more capable for hauling and towing nor more competent at coddling passengers. Moreover, today's trucks make bold styling statements. There is no mistaking a Ford F-150 for a Nissan Titan or a Toyota Tundra, or even a Chevrolet Silverado for a GMC Sierra. And every one of them would be a good choice from a consumer's point of view.

But it was the Ram that started the high-style-truck trend back in 1994 when Dodge took a risk with a bold, retro big-rig design. That truck transformed Ram from a bit player with staid styling to a big-stage event, and it's run with the big boys ever since, sometimes leading, sometimes trailing, but always solidly on the bill. Whether the '07 Ram is merely as good as the trucks listed above, or somewhat better, is more a matter of personal preference than anything else.

The light-duty Ram 1500 models are smooth and refined. Their cabs are comfortable and convenient, among the roomiest in their respective classes. The Quad Cab is handy for hauling friends and family but even the Regular Cab is roomy. Arguably, the Ram is the best-looking truck on the market. Its styling is bold and handsome, even more so in its latest incarnation.