2019 Ram 1500 Expert Review
Reviewed by Stefan Ogbac
The 2019 Ram 1500 is all-new and is up to about 225 pounds lighter than its predecessor despite being larger. In addition to its updated exterior styling, the 2019 Ram 1500 offers two engines with mild hybrid systems thanks to the addition of a belt-drive motor generator backed by a 48-volt battery pack.
Trim Levels (Interior and Exterior Options)
The 2019 Ram 1500 is a full-size truck available in rear- or four-wheel-drive configurations, two cab styles and two bed lengths. In addition to the standard-wheelbase model, a long-wheelbase variant available on crew cab models. Six trim levels are available including the base Tradesman, the off-road-ready Rebel, and the luxury-oriented Limited.
Available features include the latest version of FCA's UConnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch or a 12.0-inch touchscreen, a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, full LED headlights, a 360-degree view camera system, an electronic locking rear differential, a wireless charging pad, automatic parking assist, and the RamBox in-bed storage system.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The 2019 Ram 1500 comes standard with a 305-hp 3.6-liter V-6 mild hybrid or you can upgrade to a 395-hp 5.7-liter V-8 in regular or mild-hybrid versions. On V-6 models, the generator adds 90 lb-ft of torque while the V-8's generator adds 130 lb-ft.
Safety
The 2019 Ram 1500 hasn't been crash tested by the NHTSA and IIHS. Available active driver assist features include adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning.
Utility
When properly equipped, the 2019 Ram 1500 has a towing capacity of 12,750 pounds. The truck can also handle up to 2,300 pounds of payload.
What We Think
We've yet to test the 2019 Ram 1500 but we're looking forward to seeing how the truck's mild hybrid system works on the road and testing the user-friendliness of the 12.0-inch touchscreen system.
Cool Fact
The 2019 Ram 1500 is one of the first vehicles to come with fast-charging type-C USB ports—it has four of them—in addition to the fifth USB port (three in front and two for rear-seat passengers).
