2017 Ram 1500 Review, Pricing, and Specs (2024)

Overview

There’s a Ram 1500 for everyone—or so it seems, what with 11 different models and several class exclusives. It’s the only full-size pickup to offer an optional diesel engine for optimal fuel economy and an air suspension for carlike cruising. While the ride is faultless, the diesel comes at a premium and forgoes any semblance of performance. Nevertheless, the Ram 1500 has capable alternatives in an aging but reliable V-6 and a throaty V-8, and every model gets an effortless eight-speed automatic transmission.

What's New for 2017?

The Ram lineup remains mostly the same as 2016, other than certain features that are now standard on various models. The Rebel trim adds the 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system, automatic dual-zone climate control, remote start, the premium gauge cluster, backup camera, rear-park assist, and a limited-slip differential. The Laramie Longhorn gets LED bed lighting, keyless entry, auto high-beams, and rain-sensing wipers.

Pricing

Original MSRP:

• Tradesman: $27,890
• Express: $29,290
• SLT: $32,590
• Lone Star: $32,890
• Big Horn: $34,890
• Sport: $37,990
• Night: $38,385
• Laramie: $41,390
  
• Rebel $46,490
  
• Longhorn: $51,070
• Limited: $54,270

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Ram 1500 offers what no other full-size pickup currently does: the option of a diesel engine. With that said, it’s an expensive upgrade, and even though the gas-powered alternatives are capable, they’re also outdated. The three available engines in the Ram 1500 are the base 3.6-liter V-6 that produces 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, the 5.7-liter V-8 making 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, and the top-tier turbo-diesel 3.0-liter V-6, which is good for 240 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. All the powerplants pair with a seamless-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear- or all-wheel drive is available with each engine. The diesel-powered Ram 1500 woefully underperformed at our test track. The Hemi V-8, on the other hand, fared much better in our acceleration tests and offers more horsepower than its direct rivals. The Ram 1500 has a fantastic ride quality thanks to a more advanced setup than its rivals. By using multiple links and coil springs, the ride is more akin to that of a car than a pickup. Opt for the air suspension, which automatically lowers the Ram at highway speeds for better gas mileage, and you’ll practically float across the pavement. The Ram also handles better than its cornering tests might suggest. While not as steady as the Ford F-150 or the Chevrolet Silverado, its body motion is minimal, and overall control isn’t an issue in daily driving.

Fuel Economy

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Ram 1500 has the least spacious front and rear seats in its class. And when it comes to interior design, the Ram is getting long in the tooth and is less spectacular than some of the better alternatives. The Ram’s cabin is practical and boasts premium materials in its higher trim levels. Our Laramie Longhorn featured attractive leather trimmings and genuine ash wood. Unfortunately, some of the styling looked tacky. Still, the first-row bucket seats are comfortable and provide lots of support; the rear seats in the crew cab are pleasant but could use more lateral support. The Ram has the smallest available cargo beds as well as the least amount of interior storage space. While the disparity isn’t enough to condemn the Ram, it may give some buyers pause.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Ram features the Uconnect infotainment system, which is one of our favorite setups. Not only is it one of the easiest to use, it’s one of the most responsive on the market. The available 8.4-inch touchscreen is the largest among full-size pickups and is standard on the Lone Star trim and up. Navigation is helpful, and turn-by-turn directions also appear in a 7.0-inch color display in the gauge cluster. Unfortunately, the Ram’s system isn’t compatible with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Otherwise, Bluetooth connects without issue and provides clear phone-call quality. Apart from the standard USB, auxiliary, and 12-volt ports, there is an optional 115-volt outlet on the center stack.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

For more information about the Ram 1500’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.