2020 RAM 1500 Diesel Power: A Closer Look

Truck

The Ram has been on a sales roll as of late, moving over 600K units off the dealer’s lot last year, making it the #2 best selling truck on the market. Now that we have another engine option, it can only get better for the corporate bottom line, as well as the consumer who likes more choices. 

Text and photos by Chad Haire

Engine

The base Ram engine is a 3.6 liter V-6 rated at 305 horsepower, and 269 lbs./ft. of torque. Until now, the top offering was 5.7 liter V-8 Hemi, with 395 hp, and torque output of 410. Now we get a third option, a small 3.0-liter diesel. It loses in the horsepower department with only 260 ponies but wins big with a massive torque rating of 480 lbs./ft. As a bonus, it maxes out at a low 1,600 rpm. Not only does this make for easy towing, but better ability for off-road rock crawling at low speeds. Another bonus is a claimed fuel economy increase. The 5.7 is rated at 17/22 mpg with 19 overall in the 4x4 configuration. This new diesel says 21/29 with 24 mpg average in 4x4. Our truck's computer showed an average of 24.6 in 1,800 miles of testing.

>>Join the conversation about the 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel right here in the Dodge Forum.

Price

So how much does this diesel option cost? The entry fee over the 5.7 V-8 is $3,000 or $4,995 over the V-6 gas engine. The good news is Ram claims this is a standalone option, which means it is available in the lower trim levels. The bad news is most dealer-ordered diesels will be fully loaded with all options like this particular truck was. This Ram was offered with everything, so hit a tidy $75,305! Buyers who want the diesel option, but a low price tag, might have to special order. As always check with your dealer for nationwide inventory availability.

>>Join the conversation about the 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel right here in the Dodge Forum.

Tailgate

A nice option to have is this multi-function tailgate. Not only does it drop like a conventional one, but it "barn door" side gate opens to a 60/40 to easy cargo loading. It is well worth the $995 fee.

>>Join the conversation about the 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel right here in the Dodge Forum.

Wheels

The Black Appearance Package includes tow hooks, bed cover, black outside trim, 19-speaker stereo, 22-inched wheels mounted on 285/45R22XL all season tires. The Limited trim level includes an air suspension that provides a cushy ride.

>>Join the conversation about the 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel right here in the Dodge Forum.

Steps

Another upgrade is this running board package. It allows passengers easy step entrance, but the power motor retracts them under the frame once the doors are closed for the highest ground clearance. They can also be disconnected on the info screen.

>>Join the conversation about the 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel right here in the Dodge Forum.

Storage

Upgraded Ram trucks get this side storage box on each side, handy for keeping tools and gear secured. They do take up some space, with a narrower four feet bed width.

>>Join the conversation about the 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel right here in the Dodge Forum.

Gauge

The Ram gauge cluster is well designed and gives plenty of information.

>>Join the conversation about the 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel right here in the Dodge Forum.

Screen

Upgraded Ram trucks get a super large 10x6 inch infotainment screen that controls media, climate, phone, settings, and more. It looks intimidating but is actually very easy to operate.

>>Join the conversation about the 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel right here in the Dodge Forum.

Shifter

Shifting gears is done by turning this simple knob. It is a great idea that makes up little space. Pushing the side buttons provides driving mode: 2-wheel drive, 4x4 high, 4x4 low, and all-wheel drive for the pavement.

>>Join the conversation about the 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel right here in the Dodge Forum.

Diesel Emblem

This Sport Performance Hood is part of the Black Appearance Package. It has the diesel emblem displayed so everyone will know you spend the extra coin for the oil burner motor. It is a great truck engine and worth the extra fee.

>>Join the conversation about the 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel right here in the Dodge Forum.

For help with your maintenance and repair projects, please visit our how-to section in the forum.