The truck wars area definitely heating up at the Detroit Auto Show this year with the debut of the 2019 Chevy Silverado and the new Ford Ranger. Now Ram has unveiled the 2019 Ram 1500 pickup, which is ready to go head to head with the new Silverado and the refreshed Ford F-150.
The 2019 Ram 1500 has grown with its length increasing almost four inches to give it more interior volume than before. It’s also lower and wider than before, which gives it more refined and slightly sportier appearance than before. Even though its dimensions have grown, the 2019 Ram 1500 is going on a diet just like the 2019 Chevy Silverado. The 2019 Ram 1500 is 225 pounds lighter, with more than half that extra weight being cut from the frame and chassis.
In terms of styling, the 2019 Ram 1500’s styling doesn’t differentiate too far from the last generation. At the front one of the bigger updates is the deletion of the crosshair grille, which has been part of the truck’s face for years.
Inside the 2019 Ram 1500 has a more functional and spacious interior with more interior storage space and five USB ports. The dashboard is now dominated by a large 12-inch touchscreen.
When the 2019 Ram 1500 arrives it will initially be offered with a choice of two engines, either a 3.6L V6 or 5.7L Hemi V8. An eTorque 48-volt mild-hybrid system is standard on the V6, but it’s optional on the 5.7L Hemi V8. On the V6, the eTorque system adds 90 lb-ft. of torque, but it adds 130 lb-ft. on the V8. The 3.6L V6 generates 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft. of torque, while the V8 generates 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic. A diesel engine will eventually be added and there’s even a chance that a turbocharged four-cylinder could be offered later.
Buyers will be able to choose between rear- or four-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive buyers will be able to choose between two Borg Warner transfer cases that give the Ram 1500 either full-time or 4WD. There are three final drive ratios available, 3.21, 3.55 and 3.92. A Max Tow package is available on select two-wheel-drive models with the 3.92 final drive ratio.
The 2019 Ram 1500 will be offered in Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, Rebel, Limited, and Longhorn trim levels. The 2019 Ram 1500 will arrive by the end of March.
Source: Ram