The Ram brand has proven itself to be a reliable and popular full size pickup truck.
With several different variants of it available, it has a model that can fit the needs of just about every consumer – whether it is for a worksite or a camp site.
The Ram 1500 Limited 4X4 we tested has a base price of $84,145, but a number of options pushed the final price to $103,925. Some of the additional equipment were standalone options like a panoramic sunroof ($1,695), the RamBox Cargo Management System ($1,295), multi-function tailgate ($1,295), a class IV trailer hitch ($495), trailer brake control ($395) and an extra $395 for the Red Pearl exterior. It also featured the night edition package ($3,895) and Limited Level 1 Equipment Group ($6,195).
Powertrain: The powerful 5.7-litre HEMI V8 is no slouch, producing 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, which is all moved through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Our tester featured the eTorque mild-hybrid setup, which results in a combined fuel economy rating of 12.1 litres per 100 km.
The Ram 1500 also has a 4X4 system that can be set using a series of buttons in the dash as needed for your driving conditions.
The full-size truck has a maximum towing capacity of 5,783 kg (12,750 pounds).
Exterior: The Ram has been instantly recognizable for some time now and our tester was no different.
Featuring the ubiquitous front end, there is no mistaking what this vehicle is.
A few additional exterior features thanks to the Night Edition package helped our tester stand out, including black wheels, as well as black trims pieces including exterior mirrors, badging, the grille and grille badge, dual exhaust tips, headlamp surrounds and more.
The multi-purpose tailgate is a neat feature. In addition to opening normally to gain access to the truck bed, it can open laterally in two sections. The RamBox storage units built into the side of the bed are also welcome to keep things securely out of sight.
Interior: The cabin of the Ram 1500 is as far from what you would consider a work truck as possible. It is awash in luxury features and touches more in line with a high-end vehicle that a truck that will be put to the test on the job site.
The leather seating features contrast stitching and pipping, which helps elevate the look. They are very comfortable, and the back bench is extremely spacious, with the lower seats flipping up as needed for more storage space or offering the ability to hide items under it.
The front and rear seats are heated and ventilated, and the steering wheel is also heated.
Infotainment: As part of the Night Edition Package, we experienced an upgraded 19-speaker Harman/Kardon premium sound system in the Ram 1500.
The Ram 1500 features a 12-inch tablet style infotainment screen, powered by the Uconnect 5 NAV system, a very user-friendly setup.
It is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as offering satellite radio and wireless device charging.
Drive: The Ram 1500 delivers a very comfortable ride, at least in terms of a pickup truck.
Power from the engine is plentiful, and the transmission does an excellent job handling it all. Without the 4X4 system switch to all four wheels, the Ram can get a little sideways when the roads are snow-covered, so I was thankful for the system given the winter storm that blanketed home during our test.
The suspension does a good job of keeping the cabin isolated from the outside imperfections.
2023 Ram 1500 Limited 4×4
2023 Ram 1500 Limited 4×4
2023 Ram 1500 Limited 4×4
2023 Ram 1500 Limited 4×4
2023 Ram 1500 Limited 4×4
2023 Ram 1500 Limited 4×4
Conclusion: The Ram has been a popular truck for the brand for many years and is a mainstay in not only many company fleets, but also a favourite of everyday consumers who use them for camping, cottage weekends, boating and other activities.
The version we tested, equipped like a luxury model and with an enhanced exterior appearance, would certainly be the option that group would opt for. It can be your ride for a night on the town before taking you on a weekend in the mountains.
2023 Ram 1500 Limited 4×4
Price as tested: $103,925.00
Freight: $2,095.00
Configuration: Front engine/Four-wheel drive
Engine/transmission: 5.7-litre V8 HEMI with eTorque/ 8-speed automatic
Power/torque: 395 horsepower/ 410 lb-ft of torque
Fuel (capacity): Regular (98.4L)
Combined fuel economy ratings (L/100 km): 12.1 L/100 km
Warranties: 5-years/100,000 km (basic)
Competitors: Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ford F-150
Website: Ram Canada