The new Ram 1500 offers a cornucopia of configurations
Ram has finally launched the 2019 Ram 1500 configurator, albeit without pricing. And unsurprisingly for a full-size pickup, there are many, many ways to spec out a new 1500. As such, several of us on the Autoblog editorial team took some time to build a truck just the way we would want it. The resulting vehicles range from basic to brash. Click on to see how we’d order our Rams, and be sure to check out the Ram configurator yourself to build one of your own. And if you want to learn more about the Ram and how it compares to other full-size trucks, be sure to check out our comparison tools.
Research the 2019 Ram 1500
Associate Editor Reese Counts: Ram 1500 Rebel 4×4 V8 eTorque
I’ve been enamored with this truck ever since I saw it at a super-secret backgrounder in December, particularly the Ram Rebel. The outgoing Ram was my favorite truck in the segment, and this new model looks to improve upon it in every way. I upgraded to the Hemi with the eTorque mild-hybrid system. The engine also comes with the 33-gallon fuel tank, an indicator of the V8’s thirst for gasoline. I added the Rebel Level 2 equipment package, which includes goodies such as a 115V outlet in the bed, automatic climate control, heated seats, keyless entry with remote start and a bunch of other little options. I also added the nine-speaker Alpine sound system. When it comes to looks, I couldn’t pass up the two-tone red and black paint scheme. It looks mean with the Rebel’s grille and black 18-inch tires. Lastly, I checked the box for the factory spray-in bed liner.
Research the 2019 ram 1500
Associate Editor Joel Stocksdale: Ram 1500 Tradesman 4×2 V8
I’ve always liked the idea of having a kind of hot-rod pickup truck, something partly spurred by the fact a work truck is about the cheapest way to get V8 grunt. As such, I went about building just such a vehicle. It’s the bare-bones Tradesman model that comes standard with vinyl bench seats. I kept it as a two-wheel-drive model for lighter weight and lower cost. I went with the longer crew cab, since I find its proportions to be a bit more pleasant than the quad cab. I also don’t need such a long bed. Though I would prefer an even lighter and better looking regular cab and short bed, which aren’t currently available on the 2019 model. The 5.7-liter V8 was a must, but I went with the non-electrified one for less complexity and less cost. The shortest 3.92:1 rear axle ratio was another non-negotiable, since it should provide the best acceleration. I chose the limited-slip differential over the locker since I figured that would be more useful on pavement and perhaps more robust for hard launches than the electronic locking rear end.
From there, I skipped virtually every other option. I stuck with the vinyl bench seat since it should be comfortable for my dog to sit on, and easy to clean off. And I kept the basic stereo and steel wheels because I’m sure I would upgrade those with aftermarket parts down the road. Really the only options I added were the bed liner and bed cover. The liner is mandatory equipment in my book to keep the bed in good shape, and the cover I wanted because I don’t want to shovel snow out of my bed.
Research the 2019 ram 1500
Senior Editor Jeremy Korzenewski: Ram 1500 Laramie 4×4 V8 eTorque
Do I need a luxurious pickup truck? No, I do not. I don’t need a truck at all, if I’m being honest, but I do like the idea of killing several birds with one stone, so to speak. So I went sporty and luxurious with my Ram, opting for the Laramie trim level, then blacked it out with the appropriately named Black Appearance Package, which includes dark-tone 22-inch wheels. I added power running boards to make it easier to get inside while wearing a suit and tie (hey, it happens), and left the rest of the exterior alone. Inside I kept the black theme going with a leather interior, added the super cool 12-inch vertically oriented LCD screen, and a sunroof.
If I’m going to drive a truck, I’m going to use it to do truck-y things. So this one is a 4×4. I took the 6’4” box, but to keep the wheelbase manageable, went with the shorter quad cab body style. That’ll be easier to park downtown, and it’s still plenty of room for occasional rear-seat use. I added the electronic locking rear end with a 3.92 ratio, which, combined with the 5.7-liter Hemi and its rush of eTorque power, ought to make for a very quick pickup. Air suspension keeps it comfortable and capable, and the towing package means it can pull anything I’d ever think to tow. Finally, a 33-gallon fuel tank spreads out the fillups.
Yeah, it’ll be a bit pricey, but it’s sporty enough to be fun, capable enough to be useful, and attractive enough that people will take notice. A perfect American pickup truck, then.
Research the 2019 ram 1500
Source : AutoBlog
