Chrysler has taken two excellent engines and stuffed them into the new 2013 Ram 1500 pick-up, featuring improved power and efficiency in a package that retails at just $23,585 MSRP.
In the base model, the Ram 1500 features the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine (that we highlighted here) with 305 horsepower and 269 lb.-ft of torque – both tremendous gains over the outgoing 3.7L V6. The car also features an eight-speed transmission to improve efficiency over the outgoing (and basically archaic, at this point) four-speed transmission in the old model.
One step up lies the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine with cylinder shut-off and variable valve timing (VVT) packing 395 horsepower, 407 lb.-ft of torque. Chrysler says that the engine will have best-in-class fuel efficiency as well, in the never-ending pick-up war against the Chevrolet Silverado and Ford F-150, due to weight reduction, low-rolling-resistance tires and active aerodynamics.
“Active aerodynamics on a pick-up truck?” you say. “Yes,” says Chrysler. Engineers brought new design techniques to the 2013 Ram 1500, to the point that the Regular Can 4x2 drag coefficient (Cd) is .360 while the 2012 model had a .386 Cd. We aren’t physicists, but we know improvement when we see it.
The 2013 Ram 1500 also features grille shutters and air suspension with five height settings (including Aero Mode) that help improve fuel efficiency. Around these parts, we’re big fans of reducing weight, and the 2013 Ram 1500 complies with advanced high-strength steels and aluminum hood and control arms. Chrysler says the 2013 Ram 1500 will return 18/25 mpg with the Pentastar engine and we’ll report statistics on the HEMI V8 when they become available.
On the outside, the trademark Ram grille grows larger and taller with traditional horizontal bars and new fog lamps. Openings around the tow hooks have been enlarged for easier access and the rear fascia has been refined and focused.
Chrysler has outfitted the 2013 Ram 1500 with premium materials on the interior for both front and rear row passengers, along with an 8.4” Uconnect system with an upgraded center stack.
If you’re looking for no-frills performance, the 2013 Ram 1500 also features new electric power steering and best-in-class towing (6,500 lbs. for the V6). So never fear – the 2013 Ram 1500 may be refined, but it’s still a Ram.
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