The mid-size category is getting a fresh start; we are getting the 2024 RAM 1500 with a Hurricane engine. This has been rumored for quite a while. We saw a trend of pickup powertrains becoming smaller and smaller. Not weaker, mind you, but simply smaller caliber. This is done in order to decrease the carbon footprint they leave in their wake.
But with better technology and design, they are more powerful in spite of their smaller size. The RAM 1500 is one of the top sellers in the mid-size category. And if RAM wants to keep it that way, they need to make it more appealing. A lot of new competition arrived, and old rivals updated their pickups. Well, RAM isn’t going to sit around and wait for something to happen.
Rumor has it that they are blessing their flagship with a brand-new engine. This should improve power and torque and also improve mileage. Other than that, we can expect changes on the interior as well as the exterior. Some bigger updates are bound for the cabin. Updating the style of the interior should give it some visual appeal. The exterior should receive a bit of touch-up as well. Let’s look at the whole picture concerning the new RAM 1500.
Interior Changes
The inside of the 2024 RAM 1500 will get some noticeable updates. The seating should be improved. After all, this is a workhorse, which means drivers will be sitting in it for prolonged periods of time. There will be brand new leather upholstery with contrast stitching as well as heating and ventilation in the seats. There will be enough space for five passengers to sit comfortably.
New cushioning is implemented, but lower trims probably won’t have the massaging feature. There will also be new technology that will make driving much safer. Both for pedestrians and people inside the vehicle. There is a pedestrian detection system, lane change alerts, automatic brakes, and numerous sensors around the vehicle. There will be hands-free driving this time around. It is just a question of how many roads will be covered by it.
Exterior Facelift
The new 2024 RAM 1500 will resemble its predecessors. The rugged and sturdy look should still be present. There will be a big front fascia with shiny pieces. Enough air intakes to cool everything under the hood.
Ground clearance is improved on all models so nothing gets stuck under the vehicle. Cargo beds are standard length. Running boards are on both sides, so it makes getting in and out much easier.
RAM 1500 Specs
The new 2024 RAM 1500 will have a similar powertrain offer as the previous version. This is not a bad thing, as the previous offer was outstanding. As mentioned, there will be several engines on offer so different niches can get filled. Both a V6 and a V8 are available. Both have an eight-speed automatic transmission and are available in gasoline versions. They also benefit from a moderate hybrid system with a 48-volt capacity.
However, our 5.7-liter Hemi V8 does not receive the same level of care. The 2023 version still offers the diesel option. We are disappointed to learn that it will no longer be available starting in January 2023. But before that happens, some models will offer the 260-horsepower V6 diesel. The Laramie, Big Horn, Tradesman, Lone Star, Limited Longhorn, and Limited are a few of these.
A Rebel trim is available for people who enjoy off-road driving and is designed for rugged terrain. It has a bit more muscle and the appropriate equipment for off-roading excursions. All RAM 1500 variants have an upgraded rear suspension with coil springs as standard and air springs as an option.
This provides a significant comfort improvement over the outdated leaf springs. The new adaptable air suspension versions also offer adjustable ride height, which can enhance off-road handling and fuel efficiency. It also prevents anything from becoming stuck underneath the truck.
I6 Hurricane Engine Specifications
There are also indications that the renowned Hurricane inline-6 engine will start being used in the Ram 1500. Electrification has not yet been mentioned. With good cause, certain trucks are going green. But RAM is still choosing not to do it. Maybe that’s the direction the 1500 truck line will take. But in the event that they do, we anticipate a larger battery that can equal the power of conventional engines.
This implies using at least 150 kWh, which would also greatly increase the battery’s range. The Ram 1500 can pull up to 12,750 pounds and carry a payload of at least 2,320 pounds. It is able to haul much more than other pickups in the same category, even when it is all put together. It’s anticipated that the 3.0-liter, twin-turbo “Hurricane” engine will eventually take the place of the 6.4 and 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engines.
The 5.7-liter V-8’s 392 horsepower is slightly outperformed by the engine’s 420 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque. The use of this engine by Ram is still uncertain, but its strength offers advantages. It would provide a fantastic alternative to diesel engines, which we already know will no longer be produced.
Fuel Economy
The upcoming 2024 RAM 1500 will have a decent economy with fuel. It can achieve 26 mpg in combined driving with the hybrid version. The V6 and V8 get 23 and 20 mpg combined. Not bad for a big pickup.
2024 RAM 1500 Price and Release Date
The upcoming pickup will arrive on the road during the last quarter of 2023. The 2024 RAM 1500 has a lot of trims that dictate the price. There is a tradesman estimated at $39000, HFE at $40000, Big Horn at $44000, and Laramie at $54000. We also have Rebel at $55000, Longhorn at $61000, and Limited at $65000.
