At GDL Automotive we have taken a close look at the updated Ram 1500 and it is safe to say this one is a game changer. The biggest headline? Ram has retired its iconic V8 in favour of a new 3.0 litre twin turbo six cylinder “Hurricane” engine. On paper that sounds like sacrilege but in reality the new engine outperforms the V8 in almost every area with more power, more torque, better fuel efficiency and still strong towing capacity.
The Ram 1500 is launching here in two trims: the Laramie Sport and the premium Limited. Prices have climbed with the Laramie Sport sitting just over $140,000 AUD (roughly what the old V8 version cost) and the Limited close to $160,000 AUD. Both trims are packed with features including large alloys, advanced infotainment, dual digital screens, panoramic glass roof, massaging seats and of course the clever Rambox storage system that remains a standout practical feature.
Despite losing the V8 the Hurricane engine is an impressive upgrade. It is more refined, more responsive and delivers torque earlier which makes the big Ram feel surprisingly agile both around town and on the highway. The ride is superb thanks to air suspension and those massive wheels though the brake pedal feel is a bit unusual and takes some getting used to. Fuel economy is better than before but you are still looking at about 12.8 L/100 km in mixed driving which is no surprise given the size and weight of the truck.
Ram has stepped up the luxury in this model. The Limited trim in particular feels premium with a 14.4 inch touchscreen, a 12.3 inch digital cluster, a passenger side screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a thumping 19 speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Add in panoramic glass, massaging seats and heaps of interior space including the ability to fit three child seats across the second row and it is clear Ram wants this truck to be more than just a workhorse.
Utility has not been sacrificed. The 1.7 metre bed comes with a soft open and close tailgate, bed liner and partition system. Towing remains strong with the Laramie Sport rated at 4,500 kg and the Limited slightly less. Payload capacity is also solid. Combined with the Rambox storage the Ram 1500 keeps its reputation as a serious tow rig and work tool.
Safety tech is solid with autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise all available, but the exact features vary depending on trim. There is no ANCAP rating yet though it does hold a strong NHTSA score in the US. Warranty and servicing are a weak point with just 3 years or 100,000 km and no capped price servicing which is behind what competitors are offering.
If you cannot live without a V8 the Chevy Silverado with its 6.2L is the obvious rival. The Toyota Tundra brings a six cylinder hybrid setup and the Ford F150 remains a contender though it has had some reliability hiccups in its Australian remanufacturing run. Each has pros and cons but the Ram now sits at the premium end of the segment offering modern tech and luxury while still doing the heavy lifting.
From our perspective the new Ram 1500 represents a bold shift. The Hurricane six delivers more power and torque than the V8 it replaces and the overall package feels more refined, more modern and more luxurious. Yes the price has gone up and the warranty is underwhelming but for buyers who value a balance of power, comfort, towing strength and high end features this truck ticks a lot of boxes.
The loss of the V8 soundtrack will disappoint some purists but the Hurricane proves that downsizing does not have to mean compromise. In fact it feels like Ram has future proofed the 1500 making it a more versatile and capable full size pickup for today’s market.
