The arrival of the all-new, fifth generation Ram 1500 made big waves in the industry. At first glance on the model and equipment list, it was obvious that FCA made the step in the right direction and the job already paid out. The first quarter of the year is behind us the statistics are in a Ram’s favor against the redesigned Chevy Silverado 1500.
With a 16 percent decrease in sales for the same period last year Chevy sold 114, 313 Silverados while Ram with 15 percent increased sales reached 120, 026 units. GMC Sierra managed 40, 546 sold units and cumulative sales of GM’s half-ton twins are still better but the Chevy Silverado alone was in front the Ram 1500 for years until now. And yes, no one is close to the Ford yet.
The redesigned Ram 1500 is a more modern looking truck and equipped with the more efficient powertrains. FCA made the new generation truck lighter and larger and introduced the mild-hybrid technology as well. The interior of the truck is more comfortable and techier than ever and truck gained also advanced safety equipment.
As for the next 2020 Ram 1500, the things will mostly stay the same except the turbodiesel option should return. Ram hasn’t commented yet but reports suggest the return of the regular cab version for the 2020 model year as well. There will also be new color options and likely new package choices. FCA will also continue to sell the previous generation Ram 1500 Classic alongside the new-generation version.
2020 Ram 1500: Powertrains
The 2020 Ram 1500 should expand the powertrain range of the current version with the reintroduction of the turbodiesel option. FCA still hides details about the diesel unit but the fifth generation Ram 1500 should share the oil burner with the Jeep Gladiator and Wrangler SUV. A 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 should enter the diesel battle in the half-ton class with 260 hp and torque of 442 pound-feet at disposal.
If mentioned ratings prove to be correct, the Ram 1500 will fall behind Chevy Silverado Diesel which gets 277 hp and torque of 460 pound-feet from the 3.0-liter Duramax inline-6 turbodiesel. The Ford F-150’s 3.0-liter Power Stroke V-6 diesel would then be behind the Ram 1500 with 250 hp and torque of 440 pound-feet.
The next Ram 1500 will return with the standard 3.6-liter V-6 which makes 305 hp and 269 pound-feet of torque but gets additional 90 pound-feet of torque from the mild-hybrid system for better low-speed acceleration and reduced workload.
A 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 will produce 395 horsepower and torque of 410 pound-feet alone. When backed up with the eTorque, mild-hybrid system it will gain an additional 130 pound-feet of torque. The transmission system for all engines will be an 8-speed automatic unit. Buyers will also choose between rear- and four-wheel drive and different axle ratios.
Towing, Handling, MPG
Thanks to the coil spring rear suspension the Ram 1500 will provide a well-balanced ride and body motions. The Rebel version will get lifted and off-road tuned suspension and all versions will be available with air suspension.
The Ram 1500 will able to tow up to 12, 750 pounds with the most capable, petrol-powered configuration. The payload limit will be up to 2, 300 pounds. We will see the towing capability and EPA ratings of the diesel powertrain.
EPA rates V-6 eTorque setup to 22 mpg combined while V-8 manages 17 mpg combined without the mild-hybrids system.
2020 Ram 1500: Design
Although the fourth generation Ram 1500 (still available) has more character in its style, the fifth generation, light-duty Ram sports a modern-era style. FCA ditched the crosshair grille design and with the sleeker grille style and streamlined body, the truck looks more modern and has better aerodynamics. The high-strength-steel-intensive chassis and lightweight body contribute to weight loss while providing better performance and towing.
The 2020 Ram 1500 will stay the same visually and the diesel version will share the styling of the specific trim. The grille design will vary depending on the trim and there will be black, body color or chrome finish across the range. The truck will start with the 18-inch steel wheels and provide up to 22-inch alloy units.
Interior, equipment:
The interior of the model will continue in the same form and provide various material options and level of refinement depending on the trim version.
There will be three infotainment systems available with 5-, 8.4- and class-largest 12.0-inch center screen. The truck will also provide high-comfort features and the latest safety technologies. Buyers will also be able to get upgraded seats, premium leather surfaces, heated and cooled seats, unique trim accents, etc.
The safety equipment will cover modern technologies with systems like lane departure warning, active lane control, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, surround-view system, etc.
2020 Ram 1500: Availability, Price
The 2020 Ram 1500 should again start from around $32, 000. The model will be available in 2020.
