2020 Ram 1500 Review

　　

2020 Ram 1500 Review

byRyan ZumMallenContributor

　　Ryan ZumMallen has worked in the automotive industry since 2012. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Ryan has also contributed to Road & Track, Autoweek, Trucks.com and more. In 2019, Ryan published his first book, Slow Car Fast, on the millennial generation and its unique take on modern car culture.

　　Ram redesigned its 1500 truck last year, and it continues to be our top-rated truck. All Ram 1500 trims come with excellent driving dynamics, generously appointed interiors, and a unique rear suspension for the class. With it, the Ram glides past competitors with a ride quality more commonly associated with cars. Truck duties are not a problem either — the Ram 1500 offers comparable maximum ratings for both towing and payload capacity.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Ram 1500 Tradesman 4dr Quad Cab SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$171/mo  for 1500 Tradesman

　　1500 Tradesman

　　Tradesman 4dr Quad Cab SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $32,145 MSRPTradesman 4dr Crew Cab 5.6 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $34,945 MSRPTradesman 4dr Crew Cab 6.3 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $35,245 MSRPTradesman 4dr Quad Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $35,645 MSRPTradesman 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.6 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $38,445 MSRPTradesman 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.3 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $38,745 MSRPHFE 4dr Quad Cab SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $34,095 MSRPBig Horn 4dr Quad Cab SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $36,690 MSRPBig Horn 4dr Crew Cab 5.6 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $39,390 MSRPBig Horn 4dr Crew Cab 6.3 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $39,690 MSRPBig Horn 4dr Quad Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $40,190 MSRPBig Horn 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.6 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) (Most Popular) - $42,890 MSRPBig Horn 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.3 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $43,190 MSRPLone Star 4dr Quad Cab SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $36,690 MSRPLone Star 4dr Crew Cab 5.6 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $39,390 MSRPLone Star 4dr Crew Cab 6.3 ft SB (5.7L 8cyl 8A) - $39,690 MSRPLone Star 4dr Quad Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $40,190 MSRPLone Star 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.6 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $42,890 MSRPLone Star 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.3 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $43,190 MSRPLaramie 4dr Quad Cab SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $40,790 MSRPLaramie 4dr Crew Cab 5.6 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $43,490 MSRPLaramie 4dr Crew Cab 6.3 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $43,790 MSRPLaramie 4dr Quad Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $44,290 MSRPLaramie 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.6 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $46,990 MSRPLaramie 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.3 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $47,290 MSRPRebel 4dr Crew Cab 5.6 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $44,740 MSRPRebel 4dr Quad Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $45,440 MSRPRebel 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.6 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $48,240 MSRPLonghorn 4dr Crew Cab 5.6 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $51,140 MSRPLonghorn 4dr Crew Cab 6.3 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $51,440 MSRPLonghorn 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.6 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $54,640 MSRPLonghorn 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.3 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $54,940 MSRPLimited 4dr Crew Cab 5.6 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $53,715 MSRPLimited 4dr Crew Cab 6.3 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $53,715 MSRPLimited 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.6 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $57,215 MSRPLimited 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.3 ft SB (3.6L 6cyl gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) - $57,515 MSRP

　　vs

　　$233/mo

　　Avg. Large Truck

　　Engine choices include familiar picks such as a 3.6-liter V6 and a 5.7-liter V8. But there are some new tricks here. Last year, Ram introduced a mild hybrid system that improves fuel efficiency and the smoothness of the engine stop-start system. It's standard equipment on the V6 and optional on the V8.

　　New this year is a diesel-powered turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 known as the EcoDiesel. Ram had equipped the previous-generation truck with this engine but had to pull it from the market because of emissions certification problems. The new version is more powerful and more fuel-efficient (it's rated at 24-26 mpg combined, compared to the gasoline V6's 21-23 mpg). It also allows for a stout maximum tow rating of 12,560 pounds.

　　The cabin is another clear win for the Ram. Highlights include comfortable seats, high-quality materials and an easy-to-use touchscreen infotainment system. Move through the options list and the Ram 1500 really begins to shine. Higher trims offer even greater levels of luxury. And the truck has unmatched storage solutions from a large, configurable center console to spacious in-floor bins and locking compartments built into the side of its bed.

　　Buying a full-truck often comes down to brand loyalty, and rivals such as the Chevrolet Silverado and the Ford F-150 are desirable models in their own right. But even if you're not normally a Ram fan, you owe it to yourself to check out this capable and feature-packed truck.

　　Notably, we picked the 2020 Ram 1500 as zzdcar' Top Rated Truck of 2020. See all of the Top Rated Vehicles on our Best Cars page.

　　

What's it like to live with the Ram?

zzdcar purchased a Ram 1500 and drove it for two years and nearly 50,000 miles. To learn more about our experiences, visit the long-term page for our Best Cars. We cover everything from seat comfort to real-world fuel economy. zzdcar considers this our top-rated full-size truck, and although some customers reported quality concerns, ours was largely trouble-free. There are no significant differences between the gasoline-powered 2020 Ram 1500 and our long-term Ram. They are the same generation, so most of our observations still apply.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Great

　　8.4

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.5/10

　　How does the 1500 drive? Our test truck had the V8 engine and eight-speed transmission. They work so well together that we could recommend this truck on that basis alone. It's strong, and it's easy to drive in just about every situation. The same can largely be said for the newly reintroduced EcoDiesel powertrain — especially if you appreciate the pulling power of diesel torque.

　　But there's much more to the Ram than solid powertrain choices. We've tested many Ram configurations, and they all impress us with their steady steering, confident braking and secure handling. Ram's decade-old decision to walk away from leaf springs and switch to a coil-spring rear suspension continues to pay dividends. We're surprised no one has followed its lead.

　　

Comfort

8.5/10

　　How comfortable is the 1500? Wind and road noise is minimal, particularly in higher trim levels. Even the rumbling V8 provides only a soothing soundtrack unless you decide to open it up. The Ram 1500 expertly soaks up varying road imperfections and does it without the rough ride you'd normally expect from a light-duty pickup.

　　The front seats are nicely shaped to provide comfort and support over long distances, and that's even true of the entry-level Tradesman. Even the rear bench has an agreeable backrest angle, and it reclines a surprising amount in higher trims. We also like the Ram 1500's effective climate control system, which offers rear center A/C vents even if you get three-across front seating.

　　

Interior

8.5/10

　　How’s the interior? The Ram 1500 crew cab's interior is a pleasing place to spend time. The doors open wide to make it easy to get in, and all four doors have their own chunky and well-positioned grab handles. For the driver, there are easy-to-reach controls and a commanding view of the road.

　　Passengers in any seat will find plenty of headroom, legroom and shoulder room. The cabin is spacious, and the Ram has more rear legroom and foot clearance than competing trucks. Although the rearview mirror is a bit small, the Ram's large windows and clever hood design help with outward visibility overall.

　　

Technology

8.5/10

　　How’s the tech? The optional 12-inch touchscreen is a dazzling addition to any vehicle, let alone a pickup truck. It offers a huge map and sharp graphics. The 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system is also impressive and offers navigation. Both get multiple USB and USB-C ports, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Meanwhile, the 5-inch screen in the Tradesman has the basics down pat.

　　Ram unfortunately does not include any driver assist features as standard equipment. Only the Laramie model and above offer parking assistance sensors, forward collision and lane departure mitigation. When it's equipped, adaptive cruise control does a good job of bringing the truck down to a complete stop. Automated parking assistance is available, and it works admirably.

　　

Towing and Storage

9.0/10

　　How are the towing and storage? Tow ratings, particularly for the diesel, are stout for this class. With the V8 or the diesel engine, most of the Ram 1500's common configurations can pull more than 11,000 pounds, and some exceed 12,000 pounds. The optional RamBox locking bins built into the side of the bed are useful for storing tools or towing equipment. There's also an optional two-way tailgate that can open downward or like doors.

　　Interior storage space is another area where the truck shines. Its center console is enormous and highly configurable. The Ram can be ordered with hidden compartment spaces in the rear floor, underneath the rear seats or in the back cushions themselves. The rear seat folds up as one piece or in a 60/40-split on higher trims.

　　

Fuel Economy

8.0/10

　　How’s the fuel economy? The Ram's combined city/highway fuel economy ranges, for the most part, from the high teens to the low 20s depending on the engine and whether you get rear- or four-wheel drive. But the EcoDiesel V6 is the mpg star here. With rear-wheel drive, it posts an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined. With the optional 33-gallon tank, it can go about 1,000 highway miles on a fillup. Our 4WD test truck with the diesel returned a 24.2 mpg average over 923 mixed-driving test miles.

　　

Value

7.5/10

　　Is the 1500 a good value? The Ram 1500's build quality, at first, feels and looks great, especially in the more upscale trim levels such as Big Horn, Laramie and beyond. However, after spending some extended time in a long-term test truck, we experienced a few part failures, revealing lesser quality than we originally perceived. Ram pricing remains pretty competitive, though.

　　Ram's engine choices are largely independent of trim, so you're not forced to spend more for a big engine if you want an economical V6 in a nicely trimmed truck. On the flip side, you can also buy the top-tier diesel in something like a Tradesman work truck, a unique move that makes it a diesel bargain compared to the competition. You won't find anything more than the usual warranty coverage, but that's no bad thing.

　　

Wildcard

8.5/10

　　The Ram 1500 is a smart and civilized truck that doesn't drive like anything else in its class. Much of that is attributable to its independent rear suspension, which makes it pleasing to drive and gives it an uncommonly smooth ride. Opting for the Rebel off-road version will get you more off-road potential with no real loss in comfort.

　　Once known for big-rig styling, the Ram 1500 is now more stylish and aerodynamic. It doesn't hit you over the head with a tough-truck theme. This aesthetic carries over inside, where the Ram impresses with a handsome look that is logically laid out and oozes quality. And the 12-inch screen and reclining rear seat never get old.

　　

Which 1500 does zzdcar recommend?

No matter the trim, the Ram 1500 is a great blank slate to begin building your dream truck. To make the most of its many amenities at a reasonable price, choose the Laramie for its massive leap in standard equipment. An 8.4-inch touchscreen, heated and ventilated front seats, and access to features that aren't available on the Tradesman and the Big Horn put it over the top.

　　

2020 Ram 1500 models

Ram offers a truck for everything from down-and-dirty hauling to cushy cruising in style. The Ram 1500 comes in seven trims: the base Tradesman, HFE, Big Horn (also called the Lone Star in Texas), the off-road Rebel, followed by the Laramie, Long Horn and Limited. All come with the coil-spring rear suspension and offer the mild hybrid eTorque system, neither of which is matched in the half-ton pickup class.

　　On most models, buyers can choose from a quad cab with a long bed (6 feet, 4 inches) or a crew-cab configuration that also offers a shorter bed (5 feet, 7 inches). Many models come standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine (305 hp, 269 lb-ft) with the eTorque system, and they can be optioned up to a 5.7-liter V8 (395 hp, 410 lb-ft) with or without eTorque. The V8 is standard on Laramie, Long Horn and Limited models. The new diesel engine (260 hp, 480 lb-ft) is also available on any trim level, with the exception of the HFE, which is only available in the quad cab body style with the gasoline V6 and rear-wheel drive. A smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission is matched with each engine.

　　The entry-level Tradesman comes with 18-inch steel wheels and some niceties such as a 5-inch touchscreen, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and push-button start. There's also trailer sway damping and a six-speaker stereo. Crew-cab versions have second-row in-floor storage.

　　There are few optional upgrades for the HFE, which is essentially an efficiency-minded Tradesman model with an appearance package and few hardware deletions. Upgrades include 20-inch chrome wheels with low-rolling resistance tires, side steps, a tonneau cover, a carpeted floor, and front bucket seats (rather than a 40/20/40-split bench). The HFE does not have a rear stabilizer bar, an engine oil cooler or cargo tie-down hooks. Fuel economy rises 1 mpg in combined and highway cycles compared to a rear-wheel-drive Tradesman with the V6.

　　Moving up to the Big Horn and its Lone Star variant adds 18-inch aluminum wheels, foglights and a 60/40-split rear seat. The real leap comes in the available options, including an 8.4-inch or even 12-inch touchscreen. Both offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you're thinking off-road, turn to the Rebel with its aggressive styling. An electronic locking rear axle and four skid plates are prepared to hit the nearest desert trail at full speed.

　　Ram takes a sharp turn toward luxury with the Laramie trim. Here the 8.4-inch screen is standard, as are 20-inch wheels and power mirrors and rear window. The leather-trimmed front seats are heated, ventilated and power-adjustable. Driver assistance features such as forward collision warning and lane keeping assist are available in optional safety packages.

　　Meanwhile, the Longhorn steps up to the plate with standard premium-leather bucket seats, a leather-wrapped wood steering wheel, and a spray-in bedliner. The top-line Limited, in crew cab with the short box only, takes things even further. It's loaded with snazzy chrome trim and standard four-corner air suspension, bringing pickup trucks into the realm of true luxury vehicles.

　　In addition to countless features packages and stand-alone luxury, tech and mechanical options, the Ram 1500 is available with a number of special graphics packages. These include the military-themed Built to Serve package (with the 4x4 Off-Road Group package, 20-inch wheels, and low-production exterior colors not available on other models) and Black Edition and Night Edition packages, which add black-colored styling elements to higher-end trims.

　　

2020 1500 Highlights

Type: Crew CabQuad CabCrew Cab

　　Trim: TradesmanLone StarBig HornLaramieRebelLonghornLimitedTradesman

　　

Base MSRP	$34,945
Engine Type	Mild hybrid
Combined MPG	22 MPG
Cost to Drive	$171/month
Seating	6 seats
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Max Towing Capacity	11,540 lbs.
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles