2021 Ram 1500

No other style of car supplies as much variety when it comes to configurations as a pickup truck. The Ram 1500 offers a choice of three engines (with the top-tier TRX being reviewed separately), starting with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that we know all-too-well from the other Stellantis brands. However, the addition of an eTorque system helps to support the standard outputs of 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. Above this is an even higher-displacement 5.7-liter Hemi V8 that offers even better performance courtesy of its 395 hp and 410 lb-ft. Like the 6-cylinder powertrain, it can also be augmented - this time with a 130-lb-ft electric motor.

The newest addition is a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6, which not only delivers 260 hp and a whopping 480 lb-ft, but also better fuel efficiency in a thirsty line of cars. Regardless of the engine you choose, an 8-speed automatic transmission deals with gear shifts. Only the Tradesman HFE is limited to rear-wheel drive, while all the rest get to choose between FWD and AWD depending on the powertrain equipped. Towing performance varies, with the gasoline V6 boasting a top max capacity of 7,710 lbs, the turbo-diesel 12,560 lbs, and the V8 12,750 lbs.

Sales figures alone prove that the Ram 1500 is a great truck; so many people can't be wrong, can they? Pickup owners are notoriously loyal, so luring customers away from Ford, GM, and Dodge is an impressive feat. This is despite some questionable reliability expectations, as evidenced by quite a few recalls since the latest generation model was released. Luckily, its safety rating is not in question, with the NHTSA review of the 2021 Ram 1500 returning a solid four-star rating with the Quad Cab, and five stars with the Crew Cab.

Further strengths include an upscale cabin and above-average ride quality. There are plenty of modern features on offer, too, including a fair number of advanced driver aids. However, the Ram 1500 falls a bit behind in terms of towing and sheer power, which is what most buyers in the segment really care about. Even though it is perfectly capable off-road, this hurts its appeal. But, if you want a decent helping of capability, luxury, comfort, and adventure, Ram's 4-door pickup is definitely worth your time and money.

There is a Ram 1500 to fit just about any need, so recommending a particular model depends entirely on said need. If you want to go off-roading on the regular, the Rebel is a great option, while consumers who only care about workhorse credentials will opt for the cheaper Tradesman and spec on the V8 engine. But, if you want to capitalize on the Ram's all-round proficiency, the Limited is the way to go. The price of this 2021 Ram 1500 pickup is a hefty $57,150 ($61,150 with AWD), but you get a lot for your money. This includes the air suspension and potent V8, leather-trimmed seating with heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats, and a 12-inch touchscreen paired with a nine-speaker sound system. The Limited Level 1 Equipment Group will add $2,995 to the bill, but the 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio setup and the addition of adaptive cruise control, parallel and perpendicular park assist, pedestrian emergency braking, and a surround-view camera feels worth it.