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Did Chrysler's ups and downs during the past couple of years affect improvements made to its newly designed Ram truck? Previous Rams were good, but seemed to be somewhat behind their competitors in quality, style and overall performance. So the update question was on my mind before I set off to road test the new pickup. I shouldn't have worried -- after spending time in the Ram, it was easy to see that Dodge designers, engineers and the employees who assemble the trucks all did their jobs.


The new Ram is a true competitor.

First Glance at the Dodge Ram Pickup Truck

At first glance, the 2009 Ram and its muscular appearance resembles the Dodge trucks we've become familiar with in recent years. But inspect the truck more closely and you'll find that it is more refined, with improved aerodynamics and a better panel fit than we've seen to date. The lines of the Ram's new forward-leaning grille flow into the headlights, fenders and bumper, creating a smooth surface that results in less wind resistance than occurred on previous models.

A walk around the truck (my tester was a Laramie version) reveals the Ram Box, new storage areas that are built into each bedside and run the length of the bed. The lockable boxes open along the top of the bed rail and extend the width of the wheel well, making use of an area that's often wasted space (there's still a 4-foot width of cargo area between the wheel wells). Drains in the bottom boxes allow them to be used as ice chests.

I like the Ram Box concept, but wonder how well the lids will hold up?

Dodge says not to worry, that it performed extensive tests on the new feature before releasing it to the public, putting the lids and other components through the same trials used for doors, glove boxes and tailgates.

In the Dodge Ram Driver's Seat

I found significant improvements inside the 2009 Ram Crew Cab, including components made from a better quality of materials than we've seen on previous models. The Ram's dash, instrument and door panels and other interior components all fit together properly, with no gaps or squeaks -- a weak point in the past. A more modern layout completes the new look.

My truck was equipped with comfortable leather-covered power bucket seats that were both heated and cooled, and it didn't take long for the seats to put us at ease on a couple of hot summer days.

Trucks with bucket seats have a console-mounted shifter with a large storage box -- you'll find that abundant storage is a theme throughout the new Ram.

The Ram's controls are easy to reach, and its gauges are well placed. The combo navigation/audio screen has good visibility, and its controls are pretty intuitive. The Ram's climate switches are well-placed and simple to operate. Improved electronic technology is apparent throughout the cabin.

On the Road in the Dodge Ram

My Dodge Ram was powered by a 5.7 liter Hemi V-8 with Multi-Displacement (MDS), a system that improves fuel economy and lowers emissions by switching the engine from 8-cylinder to 4-cylinder operation when cruising. A computer returns the engine to 8-cylinders when more power is needed, with a smooth transition that isn't noticeable unless you're monitoring changes on the dash display.

The Hemi produces 390-hp and 407 lb./ft. of torque, passing power through a 5-speed automatic transmission. The engine has plenty of power for towing and passing, and the transmission shifts felt positive but not harsh. It's surprising that Dodge doesn't offer a 6-speed automatic. Most other manufacturers have gone that route in pursuit of better fuel mileage, and it seems like an option that would go hand-in-hand with the Ram's other updates.

One of the most significant changes to the 2009 Dodge Ram is its new coil spring rear suspension (the only pickup with that configuration), which offers a comfortable ride whether or not the truck is carrying significant cargo. The Ram's rear sits fairly low when the truck is loaded, but Dodge engineers say that's normal.

One drawback to the coil spring suspension -- it limits hauling capacity to 9,100 lbs or less, depending on which cab you choose.

Towing a trailer was a cinch on smooth surfaces, even on winding roads. However, quick movements of the steering wheel resulted in an unstable feel (whether towing or not) and the truck's rear end tended to bounce around more than it should when driving on a washboard surface.

Journey's End Recap

The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 is so much improved that it's easy to rave about it. Is it perfect? No. Does it do everything the average truck owner needs? Yes.

I'm not completely sold on the coil spring rear suspension. Conventional thinking is that, while coil springs give a softer ride, leaf springs offer greater stability and are better for hauling heavy loads. We'll have to see how the Ram's suspension performs over time.

The Hemi with MDS provides a good combination of power. Fuel economy, while it could be improved, is about what you'd expect from the configuration (13 city / 18 highway). Styling inside and out is much improved, and quality can compete with other comparable trucks. The Ram is comfortable to drive in town or on the highway.

No one knows what the future holds for Chrysler and for Dodge trucks, but the 2009 Ram 1500 shows that the automaker is committed to, and capable of, building a competitive product.

Learn more about the features and options you'll see on 2009 Dodge Ram trucks: 2009 Ram Highlights