i feel the same way i know of instances of electric steer failing (not a ram) the person had no steering control so until the put in multiple redundantcy into these system im not upgrading. i was a littlt annoyed with the dial shifter for 2013 as well i like mechanical links although the electronic throttle dosent bother me as i find it quite responsive

Anyone know if the new led taillights will fit on an earlier model 09-12?
Would they be plug and play? The housing looks the same

The only change in the 2013 I'd prefer over my 2012 Express is the armrest with the three cup holders. If anyone knows of an add-on or decent floor hump organizer/cup holder for the 2012 I'd love to hear about it.

From what I understand, the electric steering is electric ASSISTED instead of hydraulic so you still have a direct connection and if the electronics fail or you lose power you do still have steering.
As for the dial...I am not a huge fan either but will get used to it...ordering a 2013 soon. But from what I have read even the current (09-12) floor shift is NOT truly mechanically linked...it's also electrically linked they just place a mechanical "feel" into it so it has a more sturdy truck like feeling. Mechanical components require maintenance and do wear out...electrical not so much...