Modern half-ton trucks were once called upon only as workhorses; now they’re also expected to be luxury vehicles. It’s a difficult task, which Consumer Reports believes is accomplished among new trucks only by the 2022 Ram 1500.
In the publication’s just-released yearly assessment, the Ram tallied 75 out of 100 in a multi-category system. It was by far the highest score among full-size trucks.
The 2021 Ford F-150 was second in calculations, tallying 58 out of 100. No General Motors truck scored more than 50.
The Ram’s highest scores included its transmission (an eight-speed ZF unit), its rear seat comfort, and its cargo area. Owners ranked it highly in driving experience (88/100) and comfort (92/100).
Consumer Reports praised the Ram 1500’s interior design, including its storage space and the quality of in-cab drink holders, trays and compartments. The publication also likes the Ram’s “cargo management system” of bed-top toolboxes.
The Ram’s weakest area is fuel economy. It’s powered by a naturally-aspirated V6 or a 5.7L HEMI V8. A mild-hybrid eTorque system adds a couple of mpg, but competitors are tossing V8s in favor of turbocharged and fully-hybrid V6s.
Ram also offers the 1500 with the highly efficient EcoDiesel V6. Consumer Reports rated its city efficiency at 11 mpg. It received 24 mpg on the highway, with a combined 17 mpg.
Consumer Reports was also impressed with the Ram’s quiet ride, responsive steering and overall comfort.
A fully-equipped Ram 1500 can tow up to 12,750 pounds. Its maximum payload is 2,325 pounds, and it can be ordered with a 6’4″ bed. It also has advanced driver-aid software to use to back up trailers.
The Ram 1500 was marked down for a lack of visibility over the hood and through its thick windshield pillars. The truck counteracts the problem with blindspot detection, backup cameras and available parking assist.
James Raia, a syndicated columnist in Sacramento, California, publishes a free weekly automotive podcast and electronic newsletter. Sign-ups are available on his website, www.theweeklydriver.com. He can be reached via email: james@jamesraia.com.
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##RVT1040b
Just rejoined CR received the 2022 buying guide and the Subaru Forester listed as best SUV $25,000-$35,000. Then Got the CR Jan 2022, listed under compact SUV’s Subaru Forester is in the #4 position behind #1 Ford Bronco, #2 Hyundai Tucson and 3rd place Honda CR-V. I think I wasted my money!
Sounds like an advertisement for Chrysler group rather than news. I’ve had Dodges (now Ram)
Biggest rust buckets I’ve ever seen
You’ve never owned a Toyota or a Ford then
When I was truck shopping, luxury was not on top of my list. Engine and towing capacity WERE.
2325 # payload
sorry I’m skeptical
having owned 2 That’s just hard to believe & with coil springs to boot
Well it’s jato certified so…
“2325 # payload”
Single cab tradesman (read no options) 2WD model no doubt.
I don’t necessarily agree with all Consumer reports reports! I stopped reading that when I found it very slanted towards the ones that grease their pockets! DO your own research and shop around.
Since CR doesn’t accept advertising and buys all products they test, how are their pockets being greased?
Exactly!