Overview

Dodge's half-ton truck continues to flaunt its rugged big-rig look. For 2008, there's a more powerful engine for the Ram 1500. The Ram competes with the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado.

The Ram 1500 pickup received few changes for 2008. A new 4.7-liter V-8 engine produces 310 horsepower, an increase from the previous 235-hp, 4.7-liter V-8. Dodge also says it improved the steering linkage in four-wheel-drive models. Those models have a standard electronic transfer case, and Hemi-equipped Rams have fuel-saving cylinder deactivation technology.

Ram pickups come in regular cab and four-door Quad Cab body styles. Light-duty Rams can have V-6 or V-8 power, while heavy-duty models can have V-8 or diesel power. A sunroof is available on Quad Cab models, and Sirius Satellite Radio is offered. Dodge also offers a Mega Cab model.

Exterior
Regular-cab Rams can be equipped with a 6.3-foot cargo bed, ride a 120.5-inch wheelbase and stretch to 207.7 inches long overall. With an 8-foot cargo bed, the Ram has a 140.5-inch wheelbase and an overall length of 229.7 inches.

Quad Cab pickups, with four conventional front-hinged doors, can also be equipped with the two bed sizes and are 20 inches longer in both wheelbase and overall length. The rear doors open 85 degrees to ease access. Hoods have a pronounced crown that falls toward the front fenders.

Sunburst Orange and Detonator Yellow are new exterior colors for 2008.

Interior
A front bench seat holds up to three occupants in a 40/20/40 configuration. A center business console can hold a laptop computer, and the center portion offers under-cushion storage.

Quad Cab models have a folding rear seat. Leather upholstery and adjustable pedals are standard in the Laramie model. Dark Maple Burl wood grain for the instrument panel and door accents is now available on Laramie models.

Under the Hood
The standard 3.7-liter V-6 produces 215 hp. Rams can be equipped with a new 310-hp, 4.7-liter Magnum V-8 that can run on regular unleaded fuel, E85 or a combination of the two. A 345-hp, 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 is also available. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a four-speed automatic is optional. With the 4.7- or 5.7-liter engine, the automatic is a five-speed unit. Rear- and four-wheel-drive models are available.

Safety
All-disc brakes with a rear-wheel antilock feature are standard. Four-wheel ABS is standard in the Laramie. Side curtain airbags and an electronic stability system are optional. For 2008, Trailer Sway Control was added to the electronic stability system.

-Cars.com