2022 Ram 1500 expands the variety of ways shoppers can get its half-ton pickup. the entry-level models aren’t lined with the luscious materials and upscale features of the priciest trims, but they still ride better than the fanciest alternatives thanks to its more sophisticated suspension, which can be made cushier with the available air springs. Ram also offers the 1500 with a massive 12.0-inch touchscreen, compartments built into the cargo bed, and a split-folding tailgate. Its roster of engines operate through a silky automatic transmission and include a 395-hp Hemi V-8 (with or without hybrid assistance) and an eco-friendly diesel six-cylinder with 480 pound-feet of torque. The strongest configuration can also tow 12,750 pounds.
The lineup’s new additions include a sporty G/T package for the Laramie and Rebel, a rugged BackCountry Edition, and an even more luxurious version of the top-flight Limited known as the 10th Anniversary Edition. The G/T is highlighted by a cold-air intake, unique exhaust system, paddle shifters, and a console-mounted shifter. The BackCountry Edition is essentially an off-road-oriented package for the value-minded Big Horn and Lone Star models. The 10th Anniversary Edition further elevates the Limited model with even richer interior materials, an exclusively available Blue Shade paint color, and special badging inside and out. Obviously, the Ram 1500’s capabilities ensure it won’t be confused for anything but a truck, but the fact that it can pass for a luxury vehicle is what makes it special.
The Ram 1500 has supremely functional cubby stowage and cavernous passenger space. Both the five-foot-seven-inch and six-foot-four-inch cargo beds are available, but the extended Quad Cab only pairs with the latter. Higher trims add upscale materials and creature comforts that make the Ram feel more like a luxury vehicle than a pickup truck. Most models can be equipped with upscale features such as heated and ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof, while the fanciest versions have premium leather surfaces and genuine wood accents. As with most full-size pickup trucks, the Ram 1500’s crew cab is supremely spacious. It also has vast amounts of interior storage and a unique split-folding tailgate.
The Ram 1500 has supremely functional cubby stowage and cavernous passenger space. Higher trims add upscale materials and creature comforts that make the Ram feel more like a luxury vehicle than a pickup truck. Most models can be equipped with upscale features such as heated and ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof, while the fanciest versions have premium leather surfaces and genuine wood accents. As with most full-size pickup trucks, the Ram 1500’s crew cab is supremely spacious. It also has vast amounts of interior storage and a unique split-folding tailgate. Both the five-foot-seven-inch and six-foot-four-inch cargo beds are available, but the extended Quad Cab only pairs with the latter.
Among its many trim levels, there are V-6 and V-8 gasoline powertrains that all pair with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Both engines are assisted by a 48-volt hybrid system, though the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 can also be had without the electric support. We’ve driven a couple models with the latter and appreciated the engine’s baritone exhaust note and expeditious acceleration. We’ve also driven Rams with the diesel 3.0-liter V-6 (called EcoDiesel) that develops 480 pound-feet of torque, which is more than similar diesel engines on the half-ton Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. Every Ram 1500 has an impressive ride thanks to a rear suspension that uses standard coil springs or optional air springs, unlike the traditional leaf-spring setup found on domestic rivals.
