2007 Dodge Ram 1500 Review
The Dodge Ram is a full-size pickup truck that became an instant hit when it debuted in 1994. Like any good domestic pickup truck, numerous versions have emerged. A natural gas version was released in 1995 alongside the Ram’s first extended cab. A quad-cab version came along in 1998. The latest generation debuted in 2002, with a complete redesign. Numerous special editions have debuted, including the SRT-10, the Daytona, the 2004-05 GTX, and the Rumble Bee. It’s been named “2006 Truck of the Year” by Four Wheeler and 4-Wheel and Off-Road, Truckin’s “Truck of the Year,” and Motor Trend’s “Truck of the Year” for 1994 and 2003.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
In the automotive world, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more contentious debate than the one over pickup trucks. Ford, Chevy, and Dodge fans are all fiercely loyal to their particular brand. Well, we have good news and bad news for Dodge Ram 1500 fans. First, the good news: The Ram has more attitude than Ford or Chevy. We’re not just talking about its distinctive styling, but its mighty towing capacity and large choice of engines. If you’re looking for a powerful truck, the Ram can deliver, with its available SRT-10 engine. Now the bad news: The Ram is expensive and unreliable. While Ford and Chevy start in the $16-18,000 range, the Ram starts at around $21,000 for a bare bones model. And we’re utterly blown away by how problematic the Ram has been over the years. No matter how powerful the Ram might be, a pickup truck is nothing if you can’t depend on it.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Ram 2 stars for overall mechanical quality, but 4.5 stars for overall design quality. The original Ram had issues with air conditioning, nonfunctional transmissions, problematic shifting, brake wear, failing ABS, engine misfires, engine surges, noisy suspensions, and transmission leaks. It was recalled over 30 (!) times. The current Ram has had issues with air conditioning, buzzing speakers, autonomous locks, dented hoods, rough idling, loose seats, steering noise, and water leaks. It has been recalled eight times since 2002. Expect well-below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Ram earned five stars in government frontal crash tests. The IIHS gave it a “Good” rating for front tests and “Poor” for rear tests. Rear anti-lock brakes are standard on the ST and SLT, while full ABS comes standard on the Mega Cabs and Laramies. Adjustable pedals are standard on the Laramie, optional for the rest. Full side airbags and stability control are optional.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Looks cool
+ Can be outfitted with a Dodge Viper engine
+ Available stability control
Cons
– Horrible reliability
– Expensive entry price
– Base model lacks in bed space
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Ram has a bit more horsepower than the baseFord F-150, but the Ford has more cargo room and a roomier interior. It has 20 more hp and more towing capacity than the Chevrolet Silverado, but the Silverado costs $4,000 less and has more cargo space. The Ram is about $6,000 cheaper than the Honda Ridgeline, and has much more towing capacity and gas mileage, but has 30 less hp and much less interior room.
What Others Are Saying:
“There will be lots of disputes in the wake of the 2002 Ram 1500’s introduction about which company has the best truck. But the Ram’s undeniable advantage lies in its ability to serve people who drive trucks because they want to, not just because they have to.” – Automobile Magazine
“The Dodge Ram offers big power and big capabilities. It’s responsive and comfortable as an every day driver and it’s ready to do some serious work when called upon. Ram’s distinctive styling makes it stand out in a rapidly improving field.” – Automotive.com
“With the TRX4’s transfer case locked in 4-High and the Goodyear Wranglers providing bite, we were able to navigate the treacherous high country without incident. The Ram felt composed and solid, thanks in part to the new-for-’06 coilover front suspension. Further, the defroster did a fantastic job of keeping ice buildup at bay on the windshield-no easy task in those conditions.” – Four Wheeler
Read more about the 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 at the Dodge manufacturer web site.
