Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has unveiled the highly anticipated 2019 Ram 1500 — built to be the strongest, lightest and most advanced iteration of the full-size pickup truck.
From the overall exterior design to each mechanical component, the 2019 Ram 1500 has been overhauled. It is build on a new frame — made from 98 percent high-strength steel — which translates to weight savings of 100 pounds. Combined with other weight-saving enhancements, the all-new truck is 225 pounds lighter than its predecessor.
Aside from being lighter, the 2019 Ram 1500 is also longer and wider. The overall cab length has been increased by four inches which allows for a more spacious cabin and increased storage capacity.
Another notable feature is the 2019 Ram 1500's aerodynamic performance. A modern exterior design that incorporates a venturi roof design, active grille shutters, an air dam, air suspension, higher bed side rails leads of a drag coefficient of 0.357 — a nine percent improvement compared to the previous model.
All these components work together to improve ride, handling and comfort for the 2019 Ram 1500.
Under the hood, the all-new truck is available with either a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine that delivers 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque or a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine that yields 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. They are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Both powertrains are available with eTorque, mild hybrid technology that consists of an electric motor and a 48-volt battery pack. The system adds 90 pound-feet of torque to the V6 and 130 pound-feet of torque to the V8.
In terms of capability, the 2019 Ram 1500 has a maximum payload of 2,300 pounds and maximum trailer tow of 12,750 pounds.
Available technologies include a 12-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, five USB ports, wireless charging, Wi-Fi hotspot and a 360-degree camera. Safety systems include blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist and pre-collision braking, among others.
The 2019 Ram 1500 is scheduled to go on sale in the first quarter of 2018. Pricing and more technical specifications will be announced leading up to the official launch date.
