The Ram Truck Ram 1500 has been fully redesigned for 2009 with a new-rear suspension design, updated styling, added power and up-to-date technology. The standard engine on the 2WD regular and Quad cabs is a 3.7L V6 that produces 215 hp and 235 lb-ft of torque with a 4-speed automatic transmission and fuel economy of 14 mpg city/20 mpg hwy and 16 mpg combined. 4WD Ram standard equipment on the ST and SLT models is a 4.7L V8 coupled to a 5-speed automatic transmission with 310 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque, while fuel economy with the 2WD is 14/19/15 mpg. Standard on the Laramie and optional on the SLT is a 5.7L V8 with a 5-speed automatic and cylinder deactivation technology. Output is 390 hp and 407 lb-ft of torque, while fuel economy with the 2WD is 14/20/16 mpg. Standard safety equipment on the 2009 Ram Truck Ram includes 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. The new Ram Truck Ram also features industry-first lockable, illuminated and drainable storage boxes built into the bed rails.
2009 model year changes
The Dodge Ram 1500 is redesigned for 2009. The new look is aggressive and efficient, with a distinct lip above the big, forward-leaning crosshair grille. Also new is more available power, plus a wealth of standard and optional comfort and convenience features including plenty of cool gadgetry.
Three engines power the Ram 1500: a carryover 215-hp 3.7L V6, a more powerful 310-hp 4.7L V8 with E85 capability and a 390-hp 5.7L Hemi V8, which ups the power ante from the 345-hp Hemi unit of 2008. Despite the added power, Chrysler claims a 10% increase in fuel efficiency.
The Ram 1500 rides on a fully boxed frame, and a revised rear suspension now features coils springs and multi-links with a solid axle--a first for American trucks. A conventional Crew Cab replaces the mega cab of years past and the models features the innovative RamBox storage system, with locking bins along the bed, as well as a bed divider that also serves as a bed extender.
The new Ram 1500 comes in several styles and configurations to cover all users' needs, and it's priced between $21,270 and $43,240.
Competitive comparison
Bold styling; unique RamBox feature; extensive standard features; excellent off-road capabilities; big towing capacity; powerful & efficient engines; great warranty
Special features for 2009
With its distinctive all-new look, the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 stands apart from the aging face of full-sized competition from Chevy and Ford. Two new, more powerful, more efficient V8s add plenty of grunt to the lineup, and the revolutionary RamBox storage system adds a level of functionality not found in any big Toyota or Nissan. The new Ram 1500 is a step up in the heavyweight truck class.
