The 2023 RAM 1500 doesn’t just do truck things—it does them better than just about anyone else. While Ford and Chevy are busy flexing towing stats and off-road trims, RAM is out here perfecting the ride, refining the cabin, and keeping real-world capability front and center.
Whether you’re commuting, hauling, towing, or just looking for an everyday rig that doesn’t feel like a penalty box, the RAM 1500 brings the heat. This is the full-size pickup that rides like a luxury SUV—and still knows how to get dirty.
💥 Powertrain Options
The RAM 1500 doesn’t force you into one powertrain. You’ve got four—ranging from a smooth base V6 all the way up to a supercharged beast packing 700+ horses. No matter the job or the budget, there’s a motor for it.
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | Max Towing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 w/ eTorque | 305 hp | 273 lb-ft | 8-speed auto | 7,730 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 395 hp | 410 lb-ft | 8-speed auto | 11,610 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 w/ eTorque | 395 hp | 410 lb-ft | 8-speed auto | 12,750 lbs |
| 6.2L Supercharged V8 (TRX) | 702 hp | 650 lb-ft | 8-speed auto | 8,100 lbs |
The V6 is fine for light-duty drivers. The HEMI? Classic muscle with real grunt. And the TRX? That’s a Hellcat-powered sand missile that eats Raptors for breakfast.
Ride & Handling: Built for Comfort, Still Built Tough
What makes the RAM 1500 stand out? Coil-spring rear suspension. While other full-sizers bounce around on leaf springs, the RAM stays planted and plush—even when unladen.
Highway ride is quiet. Steering is light but accurate. It doesn’t drive like a truck until you need it to—then it steps up and hauls, tows, and rips trails without breaking a sweat.
Opt for the available air suspension and it gets even better, especially for leveling out payload or lifting ground clearance off-road.
Interior: Still the Best in the Segment
RAM nailed the interior years ago, and nobody’s really caught up. Even base trims feel solid, and once you step up to Laramie or Limited, you’re in leather-wrapped, touchscreen-loaded territory that rivals luxury SUVs.
The centerpiece is that massive optional 12-inch vertical touchscreen. It’s crisp, fast, and supports wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. Materials are top-notch, storage is everywhere, and rear-seat space in the crew cab is legit best-in-class.
Dimensions & Utility
It’s a big truck, but it’s smart about it. Crew Cab is the go-to for space, while the Quad Cab gives you more bed without totally sacrificing rear legroom.
| Spec | Crew Cab | Quad Cab |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 232.9 in | 228.9 in |
| Width | 82.1 in | 82.1 in |
| Height | 77.6 in | 77.6 in |
| Bed Length | 5’7″ or 6’4″ | 6’4″ |
| Max Payload | ~2,300 lbs | ~2,300 lbs |
RAM’s multifunction tailgate, optional RamBox storage, and integrated trailer brake controls all add to its real-world usability.
Safety & Driver Tech
Even trucks have to bring the safety game now. RAM delivers, especially in the higher trims.
You can get:
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
- Lane keeping assist
- Blind spot monitoring with trailer coverage
- 360° camera with trailer zoom
- Automatic emergency braking
It doesn’t drive itself—but it definitely has your back, whether you’re on the highway or backing into a tight job site.
Trims & Pricing
There are nine trims total, from no-nonsense to full-luxury, and everything in between. Here’s the simplified breakdown:
| Trim | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
| Tradesman | $38,720 |
| Big Horn | $44,830 |
| Laramie | $54,130 |
| Rebel | $58,745 |
| Limited Longhorn | $61,580 |
| Limited | $65,205 |
| TRX | $86,850 |
Big Horn is the sweet spot for most. Rebel is your off-road rig. Limited is full luxury. And the TRX? Well, that’s just ridiculous in all the right ways.
Final Verdict: Jake’s Take
“The RAM 1500 is the most comfortable truck in the game—and it’s still one of the most capable.”
It doesn’t scream the loudest, but it delivers where it counts. Ride quality, interior design, towing muscle, and real-world usability? Check, check, check, and check.
If you want a full-size truck that won’t beat you up when it’s not working, this is the one to get.