An American Workhorse: The Ram 1500 From 2015 to Present

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Can you name one of the most iconic trucks in the American landscape? From cornfields and cattle ranches to oil fields, city streets, and bustling highways, the Ram 1500 is an integral part of American life and is a symbol of hard work and capability. This is why we’re proud to be your premier used Ram dealership in KY because it means that we get to share the Ram legacy with customers like you.

What exactly is the Ram 1500’s legacy, and how has the truck changed since its 2015 redesign? We’ll answer that and much more as we take a closer look at the relationship between Dodge and Ram that started it all. From there, we’ll dive into the Ram 1500’s updates over the years. Then, we’ll finish off with the all-new 2021 Ram 1500 TRX, which is the most rugged and adventure-ready truck in the lineup.

Dodge and Ram: The Make-Up and Break-Up

Dodge got its start in the truck business in 1917 and welcomed Ram into the lineup in the 1930s. By the 1980s, this union became even stronger when the Ram name was added to the Dodge truck and marked the beginning of a new chapter. The Dodge Ram story continued for decades until the new millennium when Dodge and Ram announced their decision to sever ties in 2009. Why the break-up?

While the 2008 economic recession hit Americans hard, there was no escaping the need for a reliable work truck, which led to growing loyalty to brands like Dodge Ram. By 2009, Chrysler knew it was time for a change and, within a year, decided to capitalize on its brand loyalty by doing the unthinkable. Separating the brands allowed Dodge to focus on its lineup of sedans like the Charger and Challenger while Ram could cater to the truck market. This proved to be a genius move as Ram re-established itself as one of the most popular truck brands in America.

The Ram 1500: 2015 to 2018

Ram redesigned the 1500 in 2015 to deliver a half-ton truck with outstanding power and the best fuel economy in its class at 21 MPG city and 29 MPG highway. Available in regular, crew, or quad cab, the 1500’s power comes from three engine options that make it the only truck in its class to offer gasoline, diesel, and flex-fuel options. These options include the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V8, and the exclusive 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel.

The Pentastar engine produces 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque with an average EPA rating of 19/20 MPG combined. For more power, look no further than the HEMI V8 that delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque with an average fuel economy of 16/17 MPG combined. The exclusive 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel ups this ante by delivering a combined 23/24 MPG, 240 horsepower, 420 lb-ft of torque, and a towing capability of up to 9,200 pounds.

Aside from its impressive powertrains, the 1500 is also available in the Rebel and Laramie Limited trims, both of which offer a suite of unique features. The Rebel is designed for adventures with a rugged off-road package that makes it ideal for taking off the pavement and on the trail. This package includes everything from powder-coated bumpers, skid plates, and tow hooks to high-durability seating.

In contrast to the Rebel, the Laramie Limited is the epitome of luxury and boasts a premium leather interior with real wood accents and unique badging. The interior also features distinct pinstriping, detailed patterns, and high-quality carpeting. When it comes to technology, the Laramie Limited delivers with its remarkable technology suite that includes a standard rearview camera and the Uconnect infotainment system with navigation and Bluetooth capability.

The Ram 1500: 2019 to Present

With the Ram 1500 consistently topping the charts in the truck industry from 2015 to 2018, Ram set out to make even more improvements to the truck for 2019. The goal was to make the 2019 Ram 1500 the “benchmark for durability, technology, efficiency, and convenience,” complete with a suite of features that were not yet offered in a truck. Ram did this and much more with the full-size 1500 capable of towing up to 12,750 pounds without breaking a sweat.

The 2019 Ram 1500 sits on the longest, lightest, and most efficient frame in the entire segment of half-ton trucks. Drivers can reap the benefits of the longer frame when opting for the short or long bed on the Crew Cab, both of which stretch four inches longer than previous models at 144.5 and 153.5 inches, respectively. The Quad Cab long bed stretches to 140.5 inches, and all configurations, regardless of cab size or bed length, are equipped with a new aluminum tailgate with lift assist and an electronic latch-and-lock mechanism that make the tailgate more accessible.

One of the most notable additions to the 2019 redesign is the inclusion of the Ram 1500 4X4 Off-Road Package that’s designed to attract drivers with a need for adventure off the beaten path. This package includes a 1-inch suspension lift and 32-inch off-road tires, as well as an electronic locking rear differential to improve handling on harsh terrains. Additional features include Hill Descent Control, skid plates, and tow hooks, as well as unique 4X4 badging.

Aside from the new off-road package and sturdy frame, Ram also adds the eTorque hybrid system to its powertrain lineup to improve performance, capability, and fuel economy. This update is found in the upgraded Pentastar V6 engine that comes standard on most 2019 models. Although the Pentastar delivers the same power as previous models (305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque), the eTorque system improves energy use and works in conjunction with the upgraded TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission that also improves the truck’s efficiency to save you money at the pump.

The Ram 1500 TRX: 2021

We can’t talk about the Ram 1500 without mentioning the all-new road warrior – the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX. Set to lead the pack of off-road trucks in America, the TRX delivers jaw-dropping power with its 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 engine that produces 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque with a top speed of 118 mph. No wonder Ram promises the TRX will set a new benchmark for power and performance!

Sitting 8 inches wider than the standard Ram 1500, the TRX is equipped with 35-inch all-terrain tires that beg to be taken off-road. Also featuring Launch Control to manage tire slip for quick acceleration, the TRX gives you the option to customize your experience behind the wheel with five dynamic drive modes. The modes – Auto, Sport, Tow, Snow, and Custom – customize the four-wheel drive system, transmission, suspension, steering, and throttle response to meet the demands of the terrain. Ram also throws in Mud/Sand, Rock, and Baja modes that allow you to optimize performance by selecting the right mode for the location.

Beyond its unique Launch Control and drive modes, the TRX is packed with features and interior amenities that make driving down any road, paved or dirt, an enjoyable experience. These features include innovative technology like a digital rearview mirror and 360-degree Surround View Camera system, as well as over 100 available advanced safety and security features. You also have the option to customize the TRX with over 100 factory-engineered Mopar parts and accessories that can take your TRX to the next level.

What’s Your Favorite Ram 1500?

How long have you been a fan of the Ram 1500? Did your loyalty start when the 1500 was part of the Dodge lineup, or are you new to the Ram family? Whatever the case, when you get behind the wheel of a Ram 1500, there’s no doubt that you’ll be impressed by everything the truck has to offer. After all, it’s why the Ram 1500 is an icon on American roads.

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