2019 Ram 1500 debuts at Detroit Auto Show

As the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado stormed into the truck-loving Detroit Motor Show, another truck maker, Chrysler, was prepping up its big gun, the 2019 Ram 1500. The new generation of the truck is a completely overhauled version in terms of aesthetics and mechanicals. The updates have made the 2019 Ram 1500 a lighter, more powerful truck.

The 2019 Ram 1500 is more than 100 kilos lighter than its predecessor due to the use of more aluminium in the construction. But the body is still majorly made out of high-strength steel, unlike Ford’s F-series trucks. It’s not just the strength of the bodywork that has improved but they’ve fettled with the aerodynamics as well. The drag coefficient of the Dodge Durango-looking 2019 Ram 1500 registers a 9 percent decrease from that of the current model. An electrically deployable spoiler below the front bumper and the optional air suspension that facilitates lowering of the truck makes it possible. The maximum towing capacity of the truck is now 5,760 kg and the payload is 1043 kg.

The exterior of the new Ram 1500 is livened up with some modern design that gels well with the Ram’s tough persona. The new grille design is complemented by the pair of new LED headlights that are moved 1.5 inches upwards. The power bulge on the hood adds masculinity, topped off by the engine designations plates on either side of it. At the rear, the exhaust tips have grown bigger by half-an-inch and there is now a new damped aluminium tailgate. There are 15 different wheel designs and 12 body colours offered with the range. There will be a Ram for everyone as the truck is offered in six different trims.

Powering this new-age brute is a bunch of new mild-hybrid powertrains. This system called “E-Torque” comes standard with the 3.6-litre V6 and optional with the 5.7-litre V8, helping the mills generate more low-end torque and improve efficiency. This can add 122 Nm of torque to the V6 engine, the output of which is rated at 305 hp and 364 Nm. The V8 producing 395 hp and 556 Nm benefits from the “E-Torque” system in the form of 176 Nm extra torque. Cylinder deactivation is worked on to make its action less noticeable. An improved eight-speed auto transmission can be hooked up to both these engines. A 3.0-litre EcoDiesel V6 is expected to join the lineup soon.

Expect the petrol models to hit UAE, KSA and GCC showrooms by early next year.