2023 Ram 1500 Review, Pricing, and Specs

Although the 702-hp Ram 1500 TRX (reviewed separately) diminishes the desirability of the Rebel, we still think it’s the half-ton Ram to get. We’d opt for the crew cab with four-wheel drive, and spend the money to get the V-8 over the standard V-6. We’d also add the available air suspension for its selectable ride height. As doing so requires either the Level 1 or Level 2 package, we think the latter’s the way to go, as it includes items such as remote start, a 115-volt power outlet, front and rear parking sensors, power-adjustable pedals, and passive hands-free entry. We’d also nab the 33-gallon fuel tank, which ought to noticeably improve the truck’s driving range (a 26-gallon tank comes standard). The only other options we’d recommend are the Safety and Convenience package (adaptive cruise, automatic high-beam headlights, lane-keeping assist) and the Multifunction Tailgate, which also brings a spray-in bedliner.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Ram 1500 offers V-6 and V-8 gasoline powertrains that pair with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Both engines are assisted by a 48-volt hybrid system, though the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 is also available without the electric support. A diesel is also available for 2023, though Ram intends to stop production of this engine in January 2023. Until then, the 260-hp diesel V-6 is available under the hoods of 1500 Tradesman, Big Horn, Lone Star, Laramie, Limited Longhorn, and Limited trims. For adventurous folk, the rugged Rebel model provides beefier looks and legitimate off-road capability. Every Ram 1500 has an impressive ride thanks to a rear suspension that uses standard coil springs or optional air springs, unlike the traditional leaf-spring setup found on domestic rivals. Models equipped with air suspension even have an adjustable ride height, which aids fuel efficiency and off-road performance.

Towing and Payload Capacity

The Ram 1500 can tow up to 12,750 pounds and carry a payload of up to 2320 pounds. Its maximum towing capacity exceeds all but the Ford F-150, which currently tops 13,000 pounds. Rams with the crew cab body style—including the Rebel model—as those with the extended cab. Nonetheless, the more passenger-friendly 1500 can still tow north of 11,500 pounds.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

With hybridized V-6 and V-8 engines, as well as a diesel option, the Ram 1500 lineup has varied fuel economy. The EPA estimates that the most efficient Ram, the rear-drive diesel, nabs a combined fuel economy rating of 26 mpg. The gas V-6 and V-8, meanwhile, top out at 23 and 20 mpg combined, respectively. A 1500 Rebel with the gas V-6 we tested returned 24 mpg on our 75-mph real-world fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen. That’s 6 and 4 mpg better than a V-8 Rebel and a V-8 Laramie, which lacked electric-assist, we tested. For more information about the Ram 1500’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Inside, the Ram 1500 has supremely functional cubby stowage and cavernous passenger space. Higher trims add upscale materials and creature comforts, making the Ram feel more like a luxury vehicle than a pickup truck. Most models are available with upscale features such as heated and ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof, while the fanciest versions have premium leather surfaces and genuine wood accents. As with most full-size pickup trucks, the Ram 1500’s crew cab is supremely spacious. It also has vast amounts of interior storage and a unique split-folding tailgate. Both the five-foot-seven-inch and six-foot-four-inch cargo beds are available, but the extended cab body style only pairs with the latter. Ram doesn’t offer the 1500 with a regular cab, though it does sell the prior generation truck, the 1500 Classic, with such a body style.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Ram trucks have had one of the best infotainment systems and connectivity features in the class for a while. That continues in the latest trucks, which have either a responsive 8.4-inch or an optional 12.0-inch touchscreen that is available on all but the base Ram model. Too bad we experienced a lot of glitches with the huge display during the course of our 40,000-mile long-term test. Both systems are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible, and even the larger touchscreen includes a handful of redundant knobs and buttons.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The Ram 1500 has a host of available driver-assistance technology that range from automated emergency braking to lane-keeping assist. For more information about the Ram 1500’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Available automatic high-beams headlights
• Available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Ram has a competitive limited and powertrain warranty that is only eclipsed by the Nissan Titan’s lengthier coverage. Likewise, the half-ton Sierra and Silverado as well as the Toyota Tundra offer complimentary scheduled maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers five years or 50,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

More Features and Specs