2013 Ram 1500 Gets Updated with an Eight-Speed Automatic and Start-Stop System

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The 2013 Ram 1500 pickup is getting updated with an emphasis on fuel efficiency and new technology. For starters the new 3.6L Pentastar V6 is now available in the Ram 1500 and a new eight-speed automatic transmission and start-stop system also help the new Ram 1500 stay away from the pump longer.

“The new 2013 Ram 1500 is the most capable, best-looking half-ton pickup in the world and delivers best-in-class fuel efficiency, new technology and new features while upgrading the interior and exterior,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO of Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico – Chrysler Group LLC. “We changed every area of the truck – from a newly designed frame with air suspension, to a new eight-speed transmission to a new interior with the next-generation Uconnect system.

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The new 3.6L V6 packs 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft. of torque. It features 42 percent more horsepower, 13 percent more torque and at least 20 percent better fuel economy when compared to the previous 3.7-liter V-6 powertrain. The 5.7L Hemi V8 has 395 horsepower and 407 lb-ft. of torque. The V8 is at least 20 percent more fuel efficient than the current version. The new eight-speed automatic transmission is standard on V6 models and available on the 5.7L V8 equipped models. The exclusive new transmission is operated by an innovative, dash mounted rotary e-shift dial, which enables quick blind-shift transitions from “Reverse” to “Drive” when towing or navigating out of mud, snow or busy parking lots.

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Another segment exclusive with the eight-speed transmission is a new thermal management system that is designed to quickly raise engine and transmission fluid temperatures. By raising fluid temperatures, parasitic losses resulting from high-viscosity engine oil and transmission fluid can be reduced, improving fuel efficiency by 1.7 percent. Adding to industry firsts in a pickup truck is the application of stop-start, another fuel saving feature available on select 2013 Ram 1500 models. This new system improves fuel economy by up to 3.3 percent, an increase of about one mile-per-gallon to the truck’s city drive cycle.

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The 2013 Ram 1500 gets a revised front fascia with a larger Ram grille, a new front bumper and improved quad headlights. The interior has been updated with material upgrades, new HVAC controls and multimedia systems, and an improved fit and finish.