2009 Dodge Ram Review
The Dodge
Ram single-handedly changed the face of the full-size truck market in 1994,
introducing big rig styling and general good looks to an otherwise humdrum
selection of vehicles. Now in its 4th generation, the Ram keeps its
big rig theme and adds a more aggressive-looking front grille and sleeker
headlights. The exterior dimensions of the 2009 Ram are roughly the same as the
previous
generation, but the big news is the new crew cab model, which replaces
the outgoing Mega Cab body style.
Being the first crew cab Ram offered by Dodge, it’s clear
they wanted to make it a good one. With the new RamBox storage system, which
allows for 4.3 cubic feet of lockable, weatherproof, drainable and illuminated
storage space in each bed rail, the new crew cab Ram has plenty of places to
put your extra odds and ends. RamBox also includes a bed extender and cargo
rail system with four sliding, adjustable cleats.
Also available on the Ram are
creature comforts such as the pair of optional in-floor storage bins with removable
liners, perfect for keeping your drinks on ice. Other new features include heated
and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a Sirius-equipped backseat TV, a
premium audio system, and Chrysler’s MyGIG multimedia entertainment and
navigation system with a 30-gigabyte hard drive to hold songs, pictures and map
information.
Engine options for the 2009 Ram
include a 3.7-liter V6, 4.7-liter V8, 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel 6-cylinder
and the new and improved 5.7-liter HEMI V8. The HEMI engine, now with 390
horsepower and 407 lb-ft of torque, is available in several trim levels and
will allow the ram to tow over 9,000 lbs. Depending on the engine chosen, there are two automatic transmission options available on the 1500 series. The V6 models get a 4-speed automatic and the two V8 options offer a 5-speed transmission. For those who are looking at a 2500 or 3500 series, there is also a manual transmission option for the diesel powered Rams.
Two 4
wheel-drive systems are offered on the Ram. One is the part-time system that
can be disengaged on dry pavement and the other is an on-demand system that you
can leave engaged on any surface. Both systems include low-range gearing.
With strong
competition from Ford, GM and
the Ram has a pretty tough audience to please. But with all of the improvements
Dodge has made, it puts the Ram in a strong position to once again revolutionize
the market.
Can the 2009 Dodge Ram compete with the Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado?