2017 RAM 1500

What Is the 2017 Ram 1500?

The 2017 Ram 1500 is a light-duty, full-size pickup truck that competes against the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ford F-150 and Toyota Tundra. It comes in three body styles (regular cab, quad cab and crew cab) and with three cargo box lengths (from 5 feet 7 inches to 8 feet). Its trim levels are Tradesman, Tradesman/Express, SLT, Sport, HFE, Laramie, Rebel and Longhorn. Its engine choices include gas V-6 or V-8 engines or a turbo-diesel V-6.

What's New on the 2017 Ram 1500?

The 2017 Ram 1500 has more standard features on certain trim levels. The Ram 1500 Rebel trim adds the Uconnect 8.4 multimedia system, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, remote start, a backup camera and rear parking sensors. On the Sport trim levels, the Ram 1500 now gets remote start and a security alarm. Finally, the Ram 1500 Big Horn adds automatic air conditioning for 2017.

How Does the 2017 Ram 1500 Compare to Other Pickups?

The 2017 Ram 1500 lags behind competitors when it comes to the latest active safety features and towing capabilities. The 2017 Ram 1500 does stand out for its value on certain trims, such as the Laramie, which has some of the looks and features of a luxury truck at a midrange price.

What Features in the 2017 Ram 1500 Are Most Important?

The 2017 Ram 1500 comes standard with a 3.6-liter gas V-6 engine that delivers 305 horsepower. It has an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. The 2017 Ram 1500 also comes standard with air conditioning, cruise control, automatic headlights, a tilt steering column and active grille shutters. As is standard with every new vehicle, the 2017 Ram 1500 has front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system.

Significant available features on the 2017 Ram 1500 include a 395-hp, 5.7-liter gas V-8 engine, a 240-hp, turbo-diesel 3.0-liter V-6, four-wheel drive, a four-corner air suspension, remote keyless entry, heated side mirrors, power-adjustable pedals, heated and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity, an 8.4-inch touchscreen multimedia system, a navigation system and a backup camera.

Should I Buy the 2017 Ram 1500?

If you opt for the diesel engine, you'll get good performance and mileage on the 2017 Ram 1500. Otherwise, its towing and payload capacities don't match up to modern truck capabilities. 

Those concerned about the most up-to-date safety features may be concerned by the Ram 1500's offerings. The braking feel when the Ram 1500 is loaded or towing is subpar, and the air suspension's handling when towing is not as smooth as other trucks. The 2017 Ram 1500 also lacks forward collision warning with automatic braking as a feature.

Its interior is well-designed and comfortable, and the available Uconnect 8.4 multimedia system is a nice enhancement. However, there's no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto available on the 2017 Ram 1500.

If value is a major factor in your truck decision, the 2017 Ram 1500 is worth a test drive. But if you care more about towing and related features, the 2017 Ram 1500 isn't as likely to deliver as some competitors.

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