The Ram 1500 is the fifth generation of Ram trucks, this truck hit the market in 1981 and ever since it still remains a benchmark on what it means to be a full-size pickup.
Key takeaways
- The 1500 had a large gap between off-road trims, with the 2000 trim coming with some unique badging being that it was the first of its kind, the newer off-road trim is the Rebel.
- In the third gen, the truck received a new frame and suspension, giving the truck a smoother, and safer ride.
- Despite having a few names, the Ram still focuses mainly on performance.
- In the fifth gen, Ram received a bump in power that directly affected the max towing, and max payload capacity, making it perfect for most jobs.
Ram would’ve been the first to have an EV truck, and while nothing has been made previously, it showed a desire to have an electric pickup in the family that may be seen again soon.
Second generation (1994-2002)
The second gen of Ram trucks saw the distinction of the 1500 half-ton from other trucks in the lineup. This gen had both 6.5-foot and 8-foot beds, as well as regular, and extended club-cabs.
In 1998, the Ram 1500 saw an update, with a new cab option, the 4-door quad cab. This was the first extended cab pickup to have four doors. New plastic mirrors also came in 1998, with the tow mirrors being affected, as well as new rounded black plastic side view mirrors.
In 2000, the truck saw even more changes, with the addition of optional heated leather seats, as well as an off-road package that came with a 2-inch lift, limited-slip differential, and skid plates. To distinguish the off-road model from the rest, you received an “Off Road” decal that sat just beneath the 4x4.
Third generation (2003-2008)
This gen came with an all-new frame, suspension, powertrains, interiors, giving this generation a stark difference from the one before it.
In 2006, the 1500 saw more changes outside of the mechanical changes from earlier in the generation. These changes came in the form of a new steering wheel, becoming more in line with other vehicles in the Dodge family. 2006 also saw the addition of some optional upgrades that are still seen today with SIRIUS Satellite Radio, and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with wireless headphones.
Fourth generation (2009-2018)
This generation was the most pivotal one for the lineup, by going from Dodge Ram, to strictly Ram in 2011.
In 2013, the change in name was really solidified when the interior Dodge badging was replaced by “Ram”. That’s not where the changes stopped though. You can look for a new front fascia, optional projector-beam halogen headlamps with LED turn signals/parking lamps, and wheels.
In 2016, Ram debuted the Rebel trim. This trim brought back off-road capabilities that were last seen 16 years prior. The Rebel came with a blacked-out grille with powder coated front bumper and aluminum hood, skid plates, as well as tow hooks.
This generation was also supposed to see the addition of a plug-in hybrid, making it the first of its kind, but that never saw the light of day.
Fifth generation (2019-present)
For 2019, the Ram saw an increase to the towing capacity at 12,750 pounds, and a payload capacity of 2,300 pounds, making this truck more capable than ever before. This year also saw the addition of eTorque, which combined a belt-drive generator with a battery pack to provide short-term torque.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to Ram 1500, there’s plenty to choose from. Come stop by Jarrett today for more information and to check out our truck inventory!