What Type of Truck is the New 2019 Ram 1500?

Consumers are quick to grab the next best light duty pickup truck from their nearest dealership, but many of these same consumers are missing out on a lot of the new features the 2019 Ram 1500 has to offer. The 2019 Ram 1500 isn’t just a great buy because it is the newest model year available, but it is pretty much a whole new truck altogether. From storage options to entertainment, nearly everything about the 2019 Ram 1500 is new. So, is it a work truck? A truck the family can enjoy? An off-road vehicle? That’s up to the consumer.

Is it a Work Truck?

Looking to get some serious work done and carry a heavy load? The new 2019 Ram 1500 can be outfitted with the new eTorque system from the Fiat Chrysler Automobile Group. Known as a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, the eTorque system offers a select number of features and it is even a little more green than previous engine options. The eTorque engine offers hybrid functions such as auto stop/start, electric power assist, extended fuel shut-off, transmission shift management, intelligent battery charging, and regenerative braking.

The eTorque system generates more torque with each engine option. The standard powertrain setup for various trims is a 3.6-liter V6 engine optimized with variable valve timing (VVT) technology and the mild-hybrid eTorque system. Standard, the V6 is already able to generate 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque; with the eTorque system, it can generate an additional 90 lb-ft of torque. Later in the model year, two more powertrain setups will be available. Consumers will be able to get (1) the powerful 5.7-liter V8 HEMI engine will be available with eTorque, able to generate 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, with an additional 120 lb-ft of torque from the eTorque, or (2) just the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with VVT and a multi-displacement system to improve fuel economy.

Is it a Truck the Family Can Enjoy?

Aside from the Great Atlanta Automotive Media Association awarding the all-new 2019 Ram 1500 with “Best Family Car” and “Best Family Pickup Truck” awards, the new light duty pickup truck has many family-friendly functions. When it comes to packing up the kids for school, soccer practice, or taking a long road trip, the 2019 Ram 1500 has plenty of new storage options. The famous RamBox Cargo Management System has returned, now featuring a 115-volt outlet, and a relocated overhead lighting for improved illumination, still weatherproof, lockable, and designed with drainable storage bins built into the bed rails (raised by 1.5 inches).

Inside, the center console has received a complete makeover for the new technology options in the vehicle. Throughout the cabin, consumers can find a wider docking area is now available for optional wireless charging of a small tablet or smartphone, a deep storage tub is designed for a 15-inch laptop, an additional lined compartment can be found under the center armrest, another tablet holder is situated for rear passengers behind the two cup holders, a hidden cubby in the dashboard behind the glove box, two RamBins can be found in-floor for more secretive cargo storage, and finally, folding up the rear bench seat reveals additional under-seat compartments. It’s a pretty secure vehicle.

Moreover, although the new 2019 Ram 1500 comes with Uconnect 3 on a 5-inch display and has a six-speaker system; select trims have the option to upgrade to Uconnect 4 on an 8.4-inch touchscreen display or Uconnect 4C with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Google Android Auto capabilities. High-end trims and add-on packages may also add a nine-speaker sound system with a subwoofer and the new available, class-exclusive 12-inch touchscreen display. Powered by Uconnect 4C with navigation plus new configurations and features, the 2019 Ram 1500 is the first vehicle to offer the SiriusXM next-generation 360L experience, a new platform from SiriusXM with more variety, smart content recommendations, and limitless on-demand streaming audio. The 12-inch touchscreen is also reconfigurable for easy personalization.

Is it an Off-Road Vehicle?

Is it an off-road vehicle? Ha! Have you heard of the new off-road package that’s available on a 2019 Ram 1500 with a 4×4 drivetrain? Available on almost the entire lineup, the package adds a one-inch suspension lift, with or without the available four-corner air suspension, an electronic-locking rear differential, and 32-inch on/off-road tires on (standard) 18- or (available) 20-inch wheels to provide additional grip. Consumers and other drivers on the road will know this truck goes off-road, denoted by rear-fender decals equipped with the 4×4 Off-road Package. The transfer cases have also been upgraded with BorgWarner 48-12 for part-time 4WD operation with Hi and Low ranges and the BorgWarner 48-11 for on-demand 4WD.

Then there’s the Ram 1500 Rebel, returning for 2019 even more capable than before. Featuring new 18-inch wheels with 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires driven by an electronic-locking rear differential, the Rebel comes standard with coil spring suspension, a one-inch factory lift, and designed Bilstein shocks. Ram’s active-level four-corner air suspension is available for the Rebel, and both, the Rebel and trims with the off-road package get robust skid plate protection (transfer case, steering, engine and gas tank), tow hooks, and hill-descent control for added off-road capability.

The 2019 Ram 1500 has a starting MSRP $31,695 (plus destination fee. The 2019 Ram 1500 is backed by a three-year or 36,000-mile limited basic warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.