If you’re shopping for a new truck in 2023, you might consider the new 1500. This capable and well-executed half-ton truck has enough versatility to get the job done. With its sleek design, roomy cabin, smooth ride, and solid handling, it just might be the truck to buy.
However, depending on what you want and need in a truck, other considerations may push you past the 2023 Ram 1500. Let’s take a look at the latest Ram 1500 offerings and their drawbacks.
appearing on both its Best Trucks of 2023 list and its Top 10 Trucks and SUVs of 2023 list.
Whatever you need from a truck, the new Ram 1500 can handle some. While some competitors have better tow and tow numbers, the ability to tow up to 12,750 pounds and tow up to 2,300 is great for most shoppers.
It has an impressive list of engines, all of which are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbo diesel engine produces 260 horsepower and is great for towing. There’s a 3.6-liter V6 with 305 horsepower and an optional 5.7-liter V8 with 395 horsepower and the satisfying growl of an old-school engine. You get a decent amount of gas when you pair the V8 engine with the Ram eTorque 48-volt hybrid system. If you want more power for off-road driving, there’s the Ram 1500 TRX with a 6.2-liter V8 that makes 702 hp.
Most truck enthusiasts will appreciate the air springs that lower the truck for loading and trailer hitching. There are lockable storage bins in the bed walls, an optional separate tailgate to make life easier, and more great truck features.
Positives
While the 2023 Ram 1500 doesn’t offer a regular cab option, the selection of trim levels is impressive. The price rises quickly as you move through the different trims, but the variety of powertrains and features allows for some level of customization to match what you’re looking for.
You won’t find a similar interior design among its current competitors. It is comfortable, well equipped and spacious. If you have the money, you can opt for leather, metallic accents, and open-pore wood for the luxury you would expect in a luxury car. Across the lineup, there’s a thoughtful design with easy-to-use physical controls, sharp digital displays, and solid ergonomics.
What you won’t get here is an uncivilized bouncy ride. Unlike its peers, the Ram 1500 delivers exceptional ride quality with its coil spring rear suspension. Thanks to the coil spring rear suspension, the ride is smooth and rivals luxury brand SUVs.
Negatives
The 2023 Ram 1500 may not be a class leader in hauling and hauling numbers, but the only truck that can outpace it is the Ford F-150. Rams with a crew cab body configuration can’t tow as much as extended cab models but can still tow over 11,500 pounds. And as Car and Driver points out, if you need more in the field than what the Ram 1500 has to offer, a heavy-duty truck might be a better option for you.
Another downside to the new Ram is the number of optional safety features. Adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert are available, but not standard. There are also a wealth of other features available, such as a 115-volt power outlet, front and rear parking sensors, power-adjustable pedals, and passive hands-free entry when you purchase add-on packages.
