Introduction:
I’m 20 miles and 30 minutes into a weeklong stint with the 2025 Ram 1500, and I’m already forming some strong opinions. I still need more ingredients and copious amounts of stirring to see how it all bakes together, but I can tell you right now that I don’t miss the Hemi one teeny bit. Go ahead, send me your strongly-worded email about no replacement for displacement. While you’re at it, ask me some questions about this supremely snazzy truck. This is a Limited trim, so I’ll be doing truck stuff while getting a back massage. With an as-tested price of $86,290, I’d expect nothing less. And it’s not even the range-topping model.
Sublime Engine:
Thus far, the twin-turbocharged Hurricane 3.0-liter inline-six is the main focus of my attention. The high-output version in this truck makes 540 horsepower and 521 pound-feet of torque, going through an eight-speed automatic. Of course it’s fast, but it’s also shockingly smooth and quiet. You might say it’s the anti-Hemi; It still packs a serious punch but without the rumble or torque twist of a V-8. It’s a serene experience behind the wheel. Serene? From the company that built the Ram TRX? Yeah, I said it.
Excellent Ride Quality:
The ride quality of the Ram 1500 also stands out as exceptional. Modern trucks have come a long way in regards to a comfortable ride, but the Ram impresses with its ability to absorb big bumps. Despite feeling the bumps, there’s little fanfare, similar to the Ram TRX or F-150 Raptor but without the big suspension travel. The truck manages to provide a smooth and comfortable ride while still being capable of performing heavy-duty tasks.
Actually Useful Driver Assists:
Ram has incorporated useful driver-assist technology into the 2025 Ram 1500. The driver-assist tech is well-tuned and offers valuable assistance for the driver. Whether it’s lane-keep assist on secondary roads or hands-free driving on the highway, the technology helps reduce stress during the journey without allowing the driver to become too reliant on the system. Finding the balance between providing assistance and maintaining driver engagement can be challenging, but Ram has managed to strike the right balance with their driver assists.
Fuel Economy Concerns:
One aspect of the 2025 Ram 1500 that has raised concerns is its fuel economy. While the truck is capable of maintaining good mileage under certain conditions, such as 25 miles per gallon on flat, straight roads at 55 mph, the fuel economy dips significantly on hills and other challenging terrains. Currently, the truck is averaging around 19 mpg with mostly mild highway driving, which is not significantly better than the Hemi. Additionally, the engine requires premium fuel, adding to the overall cost of ownership.
Busy Interior Design:
Despite a refresh for the 2025 model, the interior of the Ram 1500 retains a crowded layout. While the design is handsome and modern, some features are still controlled through the touchscreen, making it distracting to find and use certain functions while driving. The combination of tactile buttons and touchscreen controls can take some time to get used to, and a week may not be sufficient to fully acclimate to the layout. Unfortunately, this design detracts from the overall user experience and ease of use.
Expensive Pricing:
The pricing of the 2025 Ram 1500 Limited trim raises questions about value and affordability. At an as-tested price of $86,290, the truck is undeniably luxurious and packed with features like massaging seats. However, the high price point raises concerns about whether the additional features justify the steep cost. Comparing it to lower trims, such as the Big Horn, which offers similar luxury features with a lower price tag around $57,000, raises the question of how much luxury is worth the premium price. It’s important to consider whether the high-end features are essential or if they are simply added luxuries that drive up the cost significantly.
Conclusion:
As I continue my weeklong review of the 2025 Ram 1500 Limited, I am eager to see how my initial impressions evolve with more time spent behind the wheel. The sublime engine performance, excellent ride quality, and useful driver assists make the truck a standout choice in the competitive pickup truck market. However, concerns about fuel economy, a busy interior design, and the high price point are factors that may impact overall satisfaction with the vehicle. Stay tuned for further insights and a comprehensive review of the 2025 Ram 1500 Limited.