The 2019 Ram 1500 is a Truck for the Next Generation

From its launch in 2009, the Ram 1500 has increased it’s share of the full-sized truck market from 16-22%. Truck owners are fiercely loyal. The 2019 Ram 1500 has a ton of improvements that will turn heads, and possibly change some minds.

Lighter, Stronger, and Better Towing

The new Ram 1500 dropped over 200 pounds, increased it’s towing capacity by 2130 pounds to 12,750 pounds. It increased also its payload capacity by 440 pounds, to 2320 pounds. This helps the 2019 Ram 1500 more efficient, and gives it incredible towing and cargo capacity, while decreasing the overall weight of the truck.

More HP and Torque and Hybrid Help

As in the outgoing model, the 2019 Ram 1500 is powered by a 305-hp 3.6-liter V-6 (called Pentastar) or a 395-hp 5.7-liter V-8 (Hemi). Both engines mate to an eight-speed automatic transmission. New for 2019 is the adoption of hybridization by way of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ eTorque system, which replaces the alternator with a motor/generator unit that can feed energy to a 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack. The technology is standard on Ram 1500 V-6 models and optional on 1500s with the pushrod V-8. Along with stop/start capability that should provide smoother and quicker starts than traditional systems, eTorque can provide a brief torque boost of 90 lb-ft to V-6 Rams and 130 lb-ft to V-8 models. Regenerative braking feeds energy to the small battery pack mounted behind the rear seats.

More Bed Options and Features

There are two available bed lengths: a 67.4-inch short box that’s exclusive to the crew cab and a 76.3-inch box that’s available with any cab configuration. (Ram isn’t talking about a regular-cab version or an eight-foot bed at this point.) The covered and lockable RamBox bedside storage areas return, but now with lids that are better integrated into the bedsides and an AC power outlet in the driver’s-side compartment. RamBox is available exclusively with the shorter-bed crew cab.

Better Safety Features

The Ram 1500 finally adds active-safety and convenience features. Including blind-spot monitoring, a 360-degree camera system, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Other features include automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beam headlights. LED headlights and taillights are available on almost every Ram 1500 trim, save for the lowly Tradesman and HFE.