RAM Diesel Trucks: What's New For 2020+
Despite its size, 2020 RAM 1500 is strong, completely capable, and comfortable to drive. The redesigned 2019/2020 half-ton pickup wears sleek bodywork and can support interior that rivals several luxury-brand SUVs for plushness, without compromising its capacity to work effectively.
The Dodge RAM’s smooth-riding coil-spring suspension tops all rivals, having optional air springs at all the four corners, and can do better regardless of the load. The choice of equipment and drive trains make it easy to figure out version suited to off-road run, severe towing and hauling, and weekend household chores. The Dodge RAM is a great truck, and it was named among the 2020 10best list.
WHAT’S NEW FOR 2020?
The most significant innovation for 2020 is that the optional EcoDiesel V-6 has been upgraded with a lighter block, better cylinder head breathing, and more efficient turbocharger. This increases expensive diesel production to 260 hp and up to 480 lb-ft of torque.
The previous version is a measure that outperformed all light-duty diesel trucks; to date. Also new for 2020, is the comeback of the black-trimmed night edition on Laramie and Big Horn versions.
The off-road-oriented Rebel comes with a standard comfort package, tailgate release, rear seat heaters, and a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. Rebels also have a driver assistance technology package that includes adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The V-6 and V-8 drive systems are among the many equipment variants. Both engines run on a 48-volt hybrid system, but the V-8 can be purchased without electrical support. The lineup also includes the optional 3-liter V6 diesel engine (called EcoDiesel), which offers 480 lbs of torque, which is more than the same diesel engines on half-ton pickups from Chevy and Ford.
For those seeking adventure, the Rebel model offers a more robust appearance and off-road capability. Each Ram 1500 has an impressive drivability thanks to the rear suspension that uses standard coil springs or optional pneumatic springs, unlike the traditional spring configuration found with domestic rivals.
Air suspension models also have adjustable ride heights that reduce fuel consumption and off-road ability. Light steering and powerful brakes ensure smooth driving and safe stopping.
Payload Capacity and Towing
The Ram 1500 can tow over 12,750 and can carry loads of up to 2,320 pounds. Its maximum towing capacity surpasses all except the Ford F-150, which reaches 13,200 pounds.
Fuel economy and Real-World MPG
Thanks to the V-6 and V-8 hybrid engines and the diesel option, the 2020 Ram 1500 lineup offers a diverse fuel economy. EPA deduces that the most efficient V-6 Ram can earn up to 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Also, the V-8 version is rated up to 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.
Interior, Cargo, and Comfort
The 2020 RAM 1500 has plenty of passenger space. Higher trims add upscale materials make it a more luxury vehicle than others. The RAM 1500’s crew is exceptionally spacious. It also has a unique split-folding tailgate and a vast amount of interior storage.
The Dodge Ram Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2020 Dodge Ram 1500 earned a solid rating from NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), while IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is yet to evaluate it. It has a lot of new driver-assistance technologies from automated emergency braking to lane-keeping assist. Below are the key safety features:
- Available adaptive cruise control
- Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
- Available automatic high-beam headlights
2020 RAM 2500/3500
The 2020 Ram 2500 and 3500 are extensively redesigned heavy-duty trucks for extreme towing, hauling, and comfort. It comes with a new, more durable frame and a robust standard 6.2-liter V-8 engine, which can handle everything from a family trip to dirty jobs.
They are not only the most comfortable, the most refined heavy-duty truck Ram has ever made, but are the most powerful and quietest. The legendary Cummins turbo-engine comes with 1000 lb-ft of torque exceeding that of other heavy-duty brands like Chevrolet, Ford, and GMC.
WHAT’S NEW FOR 2020 RAM 2500/3500?
There are not extensive changes to the 2500/3500. The new Ram Heavy Duty Night Edition offered on the Big Horn, and Laramie trim levels have a monochromatic design in different body colors with black 20-inch wheels, black interior, and black badging. They also come with a lane-keeping assist and adaptive steering.
Blind-spot monitoring, which includes trailer coverage, offered along with a trailer tire-pressure-monitoring system, is also available on the new 2500/3500. All models are offered in two new colors - Hydro Blue and Olive Green.
Engine, transmission, and performance
Three engines are available. The regular performance of all models comes from the 6.4-liter V10 engine with a displacement of 410 liters and a torque of 429 lb-ft. It is combined with an excellent eight-speed automatic transmission. This is the only Power Wagon engine and gearbox that has only an all-wheel drive.
However, all other models are also offered with a 6.7-liter in-line rear-wheel drive or a Cummins four-wheel turbo-diesel engine. Two versions of diesel are available.
The former is available for 2500 and 3500 models and produces 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft torque. The 400 hp HO version, only available on the 3500, generates an incredible 1000 lb/ft of torque.
Both engines are compatible with the six-speed automatic transmission. At 1060 pounds, the Cummins engine exceeds 490 pounds of V-8, which means that diesel models are not so good in the city and are not fast, but they can pull and tow much more weight.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The Ram 3500 with Cummins HO and its 1000 lb-ft of torque has a towing capacity of 35,100 pounds and a maximum payload of 7,680 pounds. Equipped with this engine, the most popular 2500 4x4 Crew Cab has a maximum payload of 2,380 pounds and a maximum trailer load of 19,010 pounds.
These are substantial numbers for the class. With the 370-hp Cummins version, the 2,500 4x4 Crew cab can tow 3,240 pounds and pull 16,870 pounds. With the standard V-8, the truck can also carry 3,240 pounds and tow 14,370 pounds, which is enough for most jobs.
Interior, Cargo, and Comfort and driver-assistance features
The Dodge RAM truck comes with the best interior with luxury-car-level detailing, a clean, modern design, extreme comfort, while the highest trim levels offer premium materials. It also provides the most massive rear seat. The quality of cab-in tech features varies in terms of quality and quantity.
These are the critical safety and driver-assistance features you can look forward to having:
- Lane-keeping assist
- Automated emergency braking with forward-collision warning
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic assist
Ready to Check Out the New 2020 RAM Trucks?
As far as the heavy-duty truck is concerned, the RAM offers the best diesel package in the segment. The RAM is still a top pick in its class, while the EcoDiesel option broadens its appeal.
Looking for tips when it comes to maintaining your diesel truck? Check out our article where we share our top 5 tips.