Today, trucks are more than just vehicles that haul and tow. For many, the light duty truck has to be both workhorse and family vehicle. Staying in tune with this, the fully redesigned 2009 Dodge Ram offers many versatile features in a truck that is actually priced less than the previous model.
The new-look Ram has a more aggressive grille and headlights, and a new hood that bares resemblance to that of the Dodge Challenger SRT8. Out back the tailgate has been thickened to incorporate a spoiler to keep the back end down at high speeds. The factory installed dual exhaust fits seamlessly into the rear bumper arches.
Engine choices for the '09 Ram are 3.7-liter V6 that puts out 210 horsepower and 235 pound feet of torque, a 4.7-lite, 310 horsepower V8, and a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 that churns out 335 horsepower and 375 pound feet of torque. The big V8 is equipped with a multiple displacement system that shuts down 4 of the 8 cylinders at cruising speeds to save fuel. The V6's are mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission, while both V8's route power through a 5-speed automatic. All models come in either rear-wheel or shift-on-the-fly 4-wheel drive with low range.
Fuel economy ranges from 13 miles per gallon city with both V8's up to 19 miles per gallon highway with the V6.
Our Laramie Quad cab model came equipped with 20-inch wheels.
Storage options include the all-new RamBox. It is a lockable, drainable storage compartment mounted one either side of the truck bed. Additional storage compartments can be found in the cabin, beneath the front seats and recessed into the floor of the back row.
Our test truck came outfitted with touch-screen navigation, soft-stitched dash, power sunroof, and leather seating with heated and cooled front seats.
Safety equipment on the Ram includes 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, electronic stability control, and a full array of front and side curtain airbags.
Base MSRP for the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 is $21,270- $200 less than last years base price. A fully loaded Laramie model can top out at $50,000. The Ram is backed by an impressive lifetime powertrain warranty.
With updated styling, and much more kit for the dollar, the 2009 Ram has the makings of success, whether at work or at home, in the always-competitive light duty truck market.