2009 Dodge Ram New Orleans LA
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Alexandria, LA
2009 Dodge Ram
November 18, 2009 By Alison Lakin, Associate Editor
2009 Dodge Ram 1500
DriverSide Overview
It's a tough time to be launching a new truck. It’s not that Dodge is blissfully unaware that something is amiss in the category, they are just resolute that the new 2009 Dodge Ram will be a big winner. After all, they've made sure to deliver some self-appointed “best-in-class” titles in the co-efficient of drag (.419 with a crew cab, 4x4 trim and largest engine), and 0-60 time (under six seconds with the RT). They also spent a year focused solely on customer research, discovering that the Ram needed fuel economy increases (even back in 2004), a crew cab option, more interior refinement and a much improved ride quality. Done, done, done and done. What we're left with is the best-looking Dodge Ram ever, inside and out, without any compromises to its extreme functionality. And to combat economic issues, pricing is actually down from the 2008 model, and with added content, Dodge estimates a $2,800 value improvement overall. That might buy a couple of gallons of gas, don't ya think?
What's to Like
A new coil-spring, five-link rear suspension drastically alters the cornering capabilities of the Ram, making turns more solid and softening bumps. Your coffee will remain firmly in its cup holder now. We doubt you could fill the 42 storage bins found throughout the cabin and the optional RamBox in the bed.
What's Not to Like
The smaller V-6 engine feels somewhat inadequate on hills and during passing situations and, frankly, doesn't have enough of an improvement from the larger TK engine in fuel economy to make up for it. Rear legroom in the quad cab is three inches less than the crew cab and can be tight for taller passengers.
The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
The drive experience is very much defined by what's under the hood. The 3.7-liter V-6 may be underpowered in certain situations, but if hauling isn't your main priority, then this should be all you’ll need. Steering is on the light side and there's a fair amount of body roll around corners, but the drive is close to car-like smooth and the cabin is whisper quiet. The 4.7-liter V-8 engine ups the Ram’s game with more horsepower and torque to net a 2-3,000-pound increase in towing capacity. With the 5.7-liter V-8 HEMI, you can really feel the tug of the engine. Towing an Airstream, as we got to do, is a piece of cake. The steering is heavier and more direct, and the Ram felt good and grounded. Many trucks ride over the road, giving you a disconnected feeling – not so with the Ram. With individually tunable springs, the all-new suspension that replaces the leaf spring system – a first in its class – dulls road irregularities better than any rig we've laid our hands on. All trims cut through the air more easily than the previous model and the five-speed automatic transmission shifts quickly and smoothly. This ...