Jan 09, 2017 09:26 AM EST
2016 Dodge RAM 1500 Review: The Off-Road Beast That Rides Like an SUV

The 2016 Ram 1500 is one of the top-rated pickup trucks in America. Who wouldn't love a pickup truck that rides like an SUV? With so many models to choose from, it is a perfect pickup for just about anyone.

Pros and Features. The pickup features smooth-riding coil spring read suspension which also enables air-suspension option. It has three excellent engine choices. It offers a smooth and efficient eight-speed automatic transmission.

The cabin is modest but attractive. The interior has straightforward audio and controls.

Cons. The pickup truck's maximum tow rating is below most of its competitors. Its diesel engine's up-front cost is very pricey. Additionally, its unique rotary shifter takes some getting used to.

What's New? The upgraded center console with connectivity features and a phone/tablet mount is now the standard for all Ram pickups. This was only offered in its predecessor's Laramie Limited and Rebel models. Additionally, there are now more colors and models to choose from.

Models. The 2016 Ram 1500 is available in the following cab styles: regular, extended ("Quad Cab"), and crew cab. The regular cab can seat three and is available in either a 6-foot-4-inch or 8-foot cargo bed. The Quad Cab can seat up to six and comes with a 6-foot-4 bed. The crew cab is available with either a 5-foot-7 or 6-foot-4 bed.

The Dodge Ram comes in a diverse 11 models: Tradesman, Express, HFE, SLT, Big Horn/Lone Star, Outdoorsman, Sport, Rebel, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn and Limited.

The base Tradesman comes with standard 17-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, and locking tailgate. It also has vinyl upholstery, cruise control, and a decent six-speaker sound system.

The Express has bigger 20-inch wheels, fog lights, carpeted floors, and floor mats. The HFE (high fuel economy) has an automatic engine stop-start, a feature only available in this model. The SLT has chrome exterior trim, heated mirrors, and other power and high-tech features.

The Big Horn has a power outlet and a 10-way power driver seat. The Sport adds a V8 engine and more tech and performance features. The Laramie has the same features as the Sport except it reverts back to the V6 engine. The Laramie Longhorn has the V8 and unique styling features.

The Limited has monotone paint, side-step bars, keyless entry and ignition, and other fancy upgrades. The Ram is an off-road beast that comes in Outdoorsman and Rebel. The Outdoorsman has the same features as the Big Horn but adds the complete works to it. The Rebel is sportier and built for off-road adventures.

Verdict. With nearly three dozen configurations, the Ram will please just about anyone. It's big and powerful but still maintains a smooth ride. It was built thinking out-of-the-box and is a very clever off-road companion.

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