Decades ago, the rent-a-car business competed as heavily in advertising as the auto insurance trade does now. Hertz was the undisputed leader and made sure everyone knew, so Avis came up with a long-running campaign proudly stating, “We’re number Two! We try harder!” Well, Ram (formerly Dodge) has been number 3 in sales under Ford and Chevrolet in light-duty pickup trucks, and Car and Driver seems convinced that being number three means they try even harder. And succeed in doing so. That appears to be the theme as they describe why they have again named the Ram 1500 among their 10 Best Trucks and SUVs, something the Ram 1500 has done every year since the 2019 introduction of the current design.
They first point out the broadness of the Ram 1500 lineup from the no-frills Tradesman work trucks to “luxe Limiteds with interiors to rival a Range Rover”. The publication is also a big fan of the available air springs for all four wheels, which can lower the body on the highway or raise it for off-road use. They additionally call out the multi-hinge tailgate and its useful ability to swing out on either side as well as work in a conventional manner. Their summation: “Everywhere you look, there’s evidence of creative thinking and the license to chase ideas that don’t fit pickup preconceptions.”
Car and Driver also points out that the Ram never forgets that it is a truck and trucks should work hard. They praise the available RAMBox that allows you to store your tools securely without infringing on bed space. And they don’t overlook that when properly equipped, the Ram 1500 can tow over 12,000 pounds.
It isn’t lost on Car and Driver that they bestowed this honor on the 2024 Ram 1500 even as it is at the end of its life cycle, and there are big changes planned for the 2025 model, including a pair of turbocharged inline-6 engines, a plug-in hybrid version, new interior, and hands-free highway driving.
Not being the top in sales doesn’t mean you aren’t the best. Just think of some number-one TV shows you didn’t watch, but everyone else did. Trucks are what Ram does, and they will keep being creative, make the best trucks they can, build their fan base and accept awards. As Car and Driver points out, they make a truck for everyone, including you, and you can find it at Benna Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Superior, WI.
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