Performance
It wouldn’t be a Ram truck if it didn’t come with an incredible powertrain lineup. And the 2020 Ram 1500 is available with three powertrain options, and each one is competent enough to handle the tough jobs. So let’s pop the hood and see what’s inside.
Engines of the Ram 1500
The standard powertrain uses a 3.6-liter V6 engine along with RWD and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Pumping out 305 hp, it can haul up to 6,730 pounds. The gas mileage isn’t too bad either. This beast gets about 22 MPG combined (20 city/25 highway). If you want a diesel-powered motor, then you can opt for the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6. This engine can generate 260 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque and is great for folks who work in agriculture. Furthermore, it can haul up to 12,560 pounds (best-in-class). That’s about double the towing power of the standard powertrain. The last option is a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine. Generating 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque, this revolutionary powertrain is one of the best in its class.
We really need to take a moment to appreciate the incredible performance that the Ram 1500 models can provide. Each one comes with an active air dam that extends downward 2.5-inches when the vehicle reaches speeds over 30 mph. This feature was designed to reduce the amount of drag. Along with that comes and elevated hood design that helps improve aerodynamics via the enhanced air deflection. Other features that help optimize the vehicle’s performance include a rear spoiler and sculpted roof. Overall, this truck performs wonderfully, regardless of the engine.
Exterior
Whenever a Ram 1500 truck drives by, on-lookers automatically know which truck it is. Its iconic exterior styling makes this vehicle one of the most attractive trucks on the road today. And who doesn't want a vehicle that turns heads? Let's take a look at what makes the outer stylings of this truck so special, though.
The 1500's Exterior
The Ram 1500 Tradesman is the base trim. It rides on 17-inch steel wheels and features a black grille and bumpers. A stabilizer bar and several tie-down hooks for cargo have also been included. You may add the Chrome Appearance Package to this trim to achieve the famous shiny silver look. This all can be upgraded to much larger 20-inch wheels with chrome finishes. Plus, you can get side steps to help children, elderly, and disables passengers climb inside the vehicle with less difficulty. However, if you opt for this, the cargo tie-down hooks and the stabilizer bar are all removed.
Next in the lineup is the Bighorn model, which is practically identical to the Texan trim, the Lone Star. It comes standard with full chrome accents on the outside, including chrome grille, door handles, and bumpers. If you want a monochromatic look, then you can also add the Sport Appearance Package. The fan-favorite in the Ram 1500 lineup, though, has always been the Laramie. It gets several wheel options, including 22-inch forged aluminum wheels that have been painted black. It’s dripping in chrome, and it is the most customizable trim as far as exterior features go. The Laramie even gets its own signature badging. And if you want to achieve a darkened aesthetic, you can opt for the Night Edition Appearance Package.
Are you looking for something more suited to off-road expeditions? The Rebel is the way to go. This model comes with all-terrain terrain, tow hooks, LED lighting, and an electronic locking rear axle. To get a blacked-out look, you can add the Black Appearance Package. Stepping up to the Longhorn trim will add 20-inch aluminum wheels that can be replaced with 22-inch aluminum wheels. Front tow hooks have also been included as well as power running boards. These are retractable side-steps that disappear when they are not in use.
At the top of the lineup is the Limited trim level. This beautiful beast has undergone a facelift. It gets a new mesh chrome grille and unique badging. And while the Limited has the best of the best everything, any trim of the Ram 1500 has the potential to satisfy drivers. Each trim is special in its own way, and it is up to each driver to pick which best suits them.
Interior
The Ram 1500 Tradesman is the base model, but it is anything but basic. It comes with vinyl upholstery for easy clean-ups and plenty of storage compartments. The best thing about this model is the advanced infotainment system. Displayed on a 5-inch touchscreen, this interface works with Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and text messaging. It even has its own 4G LTE Wifi hotspot to keep you connected everywhere you go. As for accessories, there are three 12-volt outlets for you to hook up electronics.
Moving on to the Bighorn and Lone Star models, you will get a few technological updates, which could make a world of difference if you want a fully equipped interior. First, the touchscreen has been enlarged, and you can choose an 8.5-inch monitor or a 12-inch monitor. Compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto has been added as well for seamless audio/app streaming and integration. These are excellent additions that make driving and staying connected easy.
The famous off-roading Rebel trim adds several cool features to the mix including safety systems. This model gets heated seats for comfort during the winter months and rear parking sensors to assist with backing out of tight or crowded spaces. The sensors are also useful for parallel parking on the street. The popular Laramie trim gets leather-trimmed seats with power-adjustable front seats. Heated for the winter and ventilated for the summer, occupants can stay comfortable all year long. Also, the infotainment interface gets an upgraded 8.4-inch touchscreen, and the 9-speaker stereo delivers high-quality sound.
Entering the realm of luxury, the Longhorn trim level comes with premium leather upholstery throughout the cabin. The seats are, of course, heated and cooled. This model certainly gets the royal treatment. Finally, the top-tier Limited trim includes everything from the previous levels plus a lot more. Voice-activated navigation has been installed as well as a 19-speaker Harman Kardon stereo. For safety, parking sensors have been added to the front and back of the truck, and blindspot monitoring has also been included.
Stand-alone options include active noise cancellation and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof. You can even add up to four extra USB ports and a 7-inch driver information display. This larger screen uses 3D graphics for a more interactive experience. Whether you want a tech-centric vehicle or a simple ride, the Ram 1500 has something to offer.
