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Overview:
When the previous Ram was introduced in 1994, it was a harbinger
of big things to come for Dodge Trucks. The earlier Ram had been
a bit player in the full-size truck market dominated by Chevrolet
and Ford. But the 1994 Ram changed everything for the segment, and
made Ram an industry leader. Sales rose from 70,000 a year to more
than 350,000, and Ram became Chrysler's top-selling product.
The
2002 Ram 1500 represents the start of a new generation of Dodge
Trucks that are certain to have that same appeal and keep Dodge
as one of the boldest truck makers in the industry.
An
all-new Quad Cab™ model boasts four standard doors, while regular-
and extended-cab models are considerably larger than their predecessors,
putting the Dodge Ram family once again at the head of its class.
It also signals the start of a Dodge Ram renaissance, as all-new
versions of the heavy-duty 2500 and 3500 models will follow for
the 2003 model year.
In
designing the 2002 Dodge Ram, no part of the truck was left untouched,
from its exterior design to its interior packaging or powertrain.
The result is a new truck from top to bottom, that is more fuel
efficient, quieter, handles better and delivers even more comfort
and convenience. The new Ram's features are plentiful:
• A bold, new exterior design that amplifies the signature
brawny Ram look, while refining it for reduced wind noise and improved
cooling and aerodynamics
• Two new next-generation Magnum engines that are more powerful
and fuel efficient than the engines they replace
• A new 45RFE automatic transmission that is smoother and more
responsive
• Redesigned Regular Cab and Quad Cab interiors that are even
larger and more luxurious
• New body architecture featuring a hydroformed front structure
• An ingenious rear storage and seating system in the Quad
Cab that serves work and passenger-carrying capability equally
• A totally redesigned chassis and suspension that optimizes
ride quality, quietness, towing capability and durability
• The largest brakes in the class
Exterior
Design:
The all-new 2002 Dodge Ram retains and improves upon its signature
'big rig' exterior. Well refined, the Ram is instantly recognizable
as a Dodge truck on the highways.
In
keeping with the amplification of every feature on the new truck,
the grille is bolder and—believe it or not—even bigger.
Each of the models in the Ram lineup—ST, SLT, Sport and SLT
Plus—gets a unique grille interpretation.
20"
chrome wheels are an option on all Sport Packages.
Interior
Design:
Dodge takes a bold step and eliminates the Club Cab model from its
lineup for 2002, instead replacing it with a Quad Cab model featuring
four full-size front-hinged opening doors.
Regular
and Quad Cab models feature larger cabs and offer improved head,
shoulder, leg and hip room.
The
Ram Regular Cab is the largest in the segment, with the cab size
having been increased more than three inches for 2002.
Both
the Quad Cab and Regular Cab feature improved front seat storage
and convenience features. The 40/20/40 front seat provides for comfortable
seating for three people or ample center storage for one or two
occupants. The popular center "business console" still
can hold a laptop, and now features fold-down dividers. The center
"20" portion of the seat offers under-cushion storage.
Optional power adjustable brake and accelerator pedals help shorter
drivers feel more comfortable.
The
all-new instrument panel features bright white gauges and a modern,
ergonomic design built with convenience and style in mind. There
are two power points—in the instrument panel and the storage
console (on SLT and SLT Plus models)—and an optional dual-zone
climate control system. On four-wheel drive models, an available
electronic shift transfer case dial is mounted on the instrument
panel. Heated leather seats are available the SLT Plus model.
Powertrain:
Known for its wide range of powerful Magnum engines, the 2002 Dodge
Ram 1500 gets two new, more powerful and efficient engines and an
all-new transmission. The all-new 3.7-liter Magnum V-6 engine replaces
the 3.9-liter V-6. While smaller in displacement, the new V-6 is
more powerful and delivers better gas mileage. It produces 210 horsepower,
compared to 175 horsepower with the 3.9-liter engine.
The
4.7-liter Magnum V-8 engine replaces the 5.2-liter V-8. Like the
new Magnum V-6, it delivers more peak power and fuel economy. Horsepower
is increased to 235 on the 4.7-liter engine, from 230 on the 5.2-liter
engine.
When
mated to the 45RFE automatic transmission (new for Ram), these new
engine choices offer a whole new level of quietness and responsiveness.
The 45RFE is the only transmission in its class with the reverse
gear ratio equal to the low gear ratio. It also features a unique
alternate second gear ratio for use in difficult towing and grade
climbing situations.
A third
engine choice, the 245-horsepower, 5.9-liter Magnum V-8 returns
on the 2002 Ram to give buyers a wide range of powerful engine options.
Along
with the increased power and fuel efficiency comes better towing
and payload. Maximum towing on the Quad Cab improves to 8,350 pounds,
from 7,650. Maximum towing on the Regular Cab is now 8,660 pounds,
up from 7,950 pounds on its predecessor. Payload on the Quad Cab
improves from 1,567 pounds to 1,750 pounds. Both the Gross Combined
Weight and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating increase on Regular Cab and
Quad Cab.
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