2018 RAM 1500 pickup. 5th generation
The RAM 1500 is a full-size cargo-passenger pickup produced by Stellantis NV (former Fiat Chrysler Automobiles), which owns the RAM brand. It is a four-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive body-on-frame vehicle. It is available in two-cab and 1.5 cab versions. In 2021, the fifth generation of the 2018 model was available on the market.
As compared to the previous generations of the Dodge RAM 1500, the modernized 2018 RAM 1500 pickup has a smaller size, greater aerodynamics, better interior and exterior design, but is still as powerful as other cars of this brand.
Engines and chassis
The fifth generation is standardly equipped with a 3.6 liter V6 engine producing 305 hp and a 5.7 liter V8 (395 hp) engine. There is a new 3-liter turbocharged EcoDiesel 6-cylinder engine.
Apart from the 6-speed automatic transmission, all engines come standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission. All engines are equipped with coil spring rear suspension. The engines make it possible to transport 1,403 kg, with the towing capacity of 5,697 kg.
Restyled in 2020, the all-wheel drive double-cab version of the 2018 RAM 1500 has the NHTSA’s highest 5-star safety rating.
In 2020, the fifth generation RAM 1500 was equipped with the eTorque hybrid system, which significantly reduced fuel consumption. It is a mild hybrid system with a 48-volt electric motor and a 0.4 kWh lithium-ion battery to power the options. The electric motor starts the truck and then turns on the 305 hp petrol engine.
Trim levels
The 2018/2019 RAM 1500 comes with seven trim levels: basic Tradesman, HFE, Big Horn (or Lone Star for Texas), off-road Rebel, premium Laramie, Long Horn and Limited. Most trim levels imply a 4-seater cab.
The most powerful V8 engines come standard on the Laramie, Long Horn and Limited models. New 260 hp diesel engine is available for any trim level except the HFE.
Trim levels:
- HFE: A 4-seater cab vehicle, equipped with a petrol V6 engine and rear-wheel drive. The HFE features 20-inch chrome wheels with rolling resistance tires, side steps.
- Tradesman: 18-inch steel wheels, 5-inch touchscreen, 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and engine start button. There is also a damping function for the trailer chassis.
- Big Horn and its Lone Star version: 18-inch aluminum wheels, fog lights, 12-inch touchscreen monitor.
- Rebel: Off-road version, electronically locked rear axle and four underbody protection plates, modified for off-road driving at top speed.
- Laramie: 8.4-inch screen, 20-inch wheels, mirrors and a power rear glass. The front seats are heated, ventilated and power adjustable. There’s also forward collision warning and lane departure warning systems.
- Longhorn: The luxury options of the Laramie are complemented by additional upholstery and control options. The Limited version is fitted with chrome trim and standard quad air suspension.
As usual, RAM developers have additionally introduced countless packages of features and options, including the most popular Built to Serve in military style with 4×4 Off-Road Group package, 20-inch wheels and matching body colors and Black Edition and Night Edition packages, which are, in fact, premium versions, but with different shades of black.
Safety
All the 2018/2019 RAM 1500 models received the NHTSA’s 4-star overall rating. Restyled in 2020, the all-wheel drive double-cab version has the NHTSA’s highest 5-star safety rating.
Active safety functions are available in all trim levels of the 2020/2021 RAM 1500, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go function, active lane control, lane departure warning system and automatic high beam headlights.
