(Ram)
The 2013 Ram 1500 has both muscled and finessed its way to the top of our full-sized pickup truck ratings. The updated truck delivered impressive performance in our tests, balancing work capability and refinement in a way that sees it outscore established domestic- and foreign-nameplate competitors.
For 2013, the Ram got a lighter and stiffer frame, a revised interior with a new infotainment system, and updated powertrains. Consumer Reports tested a four-wheel-drive Ram 1500 Crew Cab, with the most popular engine option—the 5.7-liter Hemi V8—and the new, efficient eight-speed automatic transmission. The combination delivers seamless power and still returns a class-average 15 mpg overall in CR's own fuel economy tests.
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A unique coil-spring rear suspension gives it a smooth ride and the interior is whisper-quiet—unless you lean-in on the gas pedal a little harder and want to hear the symphony coming from the Ram's twin pipes. Continued interior and powertrain improvements make the Ram a particularly well-rounded choice.
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The Ram 1500 earned a 78-point overall road test score (out of 100 possible points). This is second only to the Chevrolet Avalanche, a Suburban-based truck that entered 2013 with limited offerings and ceased production in April.
Other tested full-size pickups include, the Toyota Tundra (69 points) and the iconic Ford F-150 (68 points). But the hyper-competitive pickup market doesn't stand still for long, thanks to continual updates and redesigns of the major players. Consumer Reports is evaluating the redesigned 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and will announce findings later this summer. First impressions are that the Silverado is a comfortable and refined truck that could possibly challenge the Ram in our Ratings. Ford's F-150 will be redesigned for 2015.
Bottom line:
Impressive, class-leading performance in our tests means that the Ram deserves a closer look from more buyers.
Check out the video below for more highlights, and read our complete Ram 1500 road test for the full details.
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