The brand had grown so much like the days when it was under Dodge that it split off and became separate companies, focusing on trucks and work vans. The name has grown over the past decade, and their flagship truck, the Ram, has become a favorite among many truckers.
While the Ram name is known for having great trucks, it’s also known for offering trucks at very affordable prices, and that trend continues today, as there are still many 1,500 Ram trucks available that start at under $40,000. Here’s everything you need to know about the 2023 Ram 1500 trucks, which start at $40,000.
For 2023, the Ram gets some significant upgrades, including a 12-inch tubeless package, 22-inch all-terrain tires, rear-seat reminder alert, and with some trim levels, there’s a bacteria-killing UV-C glove box light.
The 2023 Ram 1500 comes with either a V6 or V8 engine connected to a 48-volt eTorque mild-hybrid system that delivers increased fuel economy on every trim level and powertrain option. At the high end, the Ram 1500 is capable of up to 703 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque in the option of the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8.
Ram 1500 models are under $40,000
If you’re looking to get behind the wheel of a Ram 1500 and you’re looking to save some cash, there are still a few options available to you, including the base model Ram 1500 Tradesman, which starts at $37,410.
You’re limited to a 3.6-liter V6 with automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive on this option. However, you still get a 6-foot-4-inch bed and a four-door cabin, which gives you plenty of room for transport and passengers.
If a Ram 1500 Tradesman isn’t enough for you, you can also get a Ram 1500 Tradesman HFE for under $40,000, at an MSRP of $39,047. The Tradesman HFE is a base Tradesman Ram with an emphasis on high fuel efficiency, which is what the HFE stands for in the model name.
The Tradesman HFE only comes in rear-wheel drive and is a 6-foot-4-inch quad cab style. The only engine options are the base 3.6-liter V6 found on the base Tradesman model and a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine to maximize fuel economy.
With the 3.6-liter V6, you can expect fuel economy of 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. As for , this truck can get up to 23 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. For the Tradesman HFE, there’s a $320 increase in sticker price over last year’s model.
What are the best Ram 1500 models?
According to and, the two top Ram 1500 models are the Ram 1500 Laramie and the Ram 1500 Rebel. Many have praised its smooth ride and incredibly quiet interior while driving. Even the mighty V8 engine is only a mild rumble under normal driving conditions.
The Laramie also comes standard with leather-trimmed seats, an optional 12-inch screen, an optional sunroof, and heated front and rear seats with the front seats also ventilated.
A better car and driver choice is the Ram 1500 Rebel, especially with the optional V8 engine and all-wheel drive. The Ram 1500 Rebel is also available with suspension, which includes selectable ride height. Also available is a 115-volt power outlet, remote start, adaptive cruise control, a multifunction tailgate, front and rear parking sensors, power-adjustable pedals, and hands-free entry.
No matter which 1500 model you choose, you can get a competent and impressive pickup truck for any budget.
