We've got recommendations on which trim level to snag if you're looking to get the most bang for your buck when buying a Ram 1500 pickup truck.
The Ram 1500 is our top pick for a full-size, half-ton pickup. However, with a dizzying array of available trims (14 of them!), powertrains, and cab/box configurations, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming for some shoppers. That's where we come in. If you're eyeing a Ram 1500, there's one trim level we recommend above all others for most buyers, and we'll break down the major available options to help you make your decision.
For everyday folks looking for a truck to drive daily, the Ram 1500 Laramie hits the sweet spot. It strikes the perfect balance between capability, creature comforts, and luxury without breaking the bank and pushing you into a $90K+ machine. The Laramie kicks off at $64,075 for a crew cab with the 5-foot-7-inch box and rear-wheel drive. Under the hood, you'll find Ram's standard-output twin-turbo inline-six engine, churning out a healthy 420 horsepower. Standard equipment is impressive, featuring leather seats and steering wheel, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, a large 12.0-inch center touchscreen, a 10-speaker stereo system, power-folding mirrors, and stylish 22-inch aluminum wheels.
For those who need more rugged capability, there's the Rebel model, priced similarly at $67,645. It includes four-wheel drive and enhanced off-road prowess, making it a solid choice if you plan on tackling some mud and rough terrain with your Ram.
When it comes to configuring a full-size truck, the possibilities are nearly endless, so we'll focus on the most impactful options here. While four-wheel drive is an option on the Laramie, as is the less powerful Hemi V-8, we'd pass on the V-8. The six-cylinder engine is both stronger and more fuel-efficient, not to mention it comes standard. If you need more cargo room, a longer bed is also available. You can also upgrade with the Laramie Level 2 Equipment group for more tech features, and a suite of active safety features, including a hands-free highway driving system, can be added.
View Price on AmazonRam offers a few other notable options in the 1500 lineup. A more potent 540-hp version of the twin-turbo inline-six comes standard on the Limited, Limited Longhorn, RHO, and Tungsten trims. If you're a serious audiophile, a massive 23-speaker sound system is exclusively available on the Tungsten trim.
About the Author: Ever since David was a wee Car and Driver intern, he has kept a spreadsheet listing all the vehicles he’s driven and tested. David really likes spreadsheets. He can parallel-park a school bus and once drove a Lincoln Town Car 63 mph in reverse. After taking a break from journalism to work on autonomous vehicles, he’s back writing for this and other automotive publications. When David’s not searching for the perfect used car, you can find him sampling the latest in gimmicky, limited-edition foodstuffs.
Source: caranddriver.com
