The secret lies in the powertrain
First off, I must tell you that the 6.7L turbodiesel engine of the Dodge Ram 2500 really impressed me. Thusly powered, this heavy-duty full-size pickup truck purrs on the highway and makes a mockery of hills. When fully loaded, it also offers pretty reasonable fuel economy considering its size. The Ram 2500 is primarily a utility/work truck; fit and finish as well as interior comfort fit this description.
Commanding
Of course, with its huge chrome (Laramie trim) or black (base trim) front grille, the Ram 2500 is one heck of a menacing beast. Exterior build quality is good. Since the ground clearance is massive, you'll have to use a small stool to access the engine bay more easily. Here, the various components could use a more distinctive visual treatment to help owners locate them more quickly.
My tester, a four-door Quad Cab model, came with an 8-foot bed. The latter's loading threshold is very high, meaning you'll have to sit on the folded tailgate before climbing onto the bed. Cargo room is generous and the plastic bedliner allows you to slide your cargo more easily; however, I would have added two more tie-down hooks in the middle to complement the four already integrated to the corners. Securing boxes and other cumbersome items would then be easier and safer.
Super side steps
My 2007 Ram Laramie featured full-length, power-retractable side steps. When folded away, they do not disrupt the vehicle's tough body lines. As soon as you open a door, the side step magically springs into place. I found it quite solid and handy when accessing the cabin. The side step then disappears once you close the door. Unfortunately, the opening angle of the front doors is not wide enough to allow easy access when the rear doors are fully open. On the plus side, well-positioned support handles help you get on board this massive truck.
First off, I must tell you that the 6.7L turbodiesel engine of the Dodge Ram 2500 really impressed me. Thusly powered, this heavy-duty full-size pickup truck purrs on the highway and makes a mockery of hills. When fully loaded, it also offers pretty reasonable fuel economy considering its size. The Ram 2500 is primarily a utility/work truck; fit and finish as well as interior comfort fit this description.
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| The Ram's design and execution have been developed to suit its utility/work purpose. |
Commanding
Of course, with its huge chrome (Laramie trim) or black (base trim) front grille, the Ram 2500 is one heck of a menacing beast. Exterior build quality is good. Since the ground clearance is massive, you'll have to use a small stool to access the engine bay more easily. Here, the various components could use a more distinctive visual treatment to help owners locate them more quickly.
My tester, a four-door Quad Cab model, came with an 8-foot bed. The latter's loading threshold is very high, meaning you'll have to sit on the folded tailgate before climbing onto the bed. Cargo room is generous and the plastic bedliner allows you to slide your cargo more easily; however, I would have added two more tie-down hooks in the middle to complement the four already integrated to the corners. Securing boxes and other cumbersome items would then be easier and safer.
Super side steps
My 2007 Ram Laramie featured full-length, power-retractable side steps. When folded away, they do not disrupt the vehicle's tough body lines. As soon as you open a door, the side step magically springs into place. I found it quite solid and handy when accessing the cabin. The side step then disappears once you close the door. Unfortunately, the opening angle of the front doors is not wide enough to allow easy access when the rear doors are fully open. On the plus side, well-positioned support handles help you get on board this massive truck.
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| The retractable side steps offer a much easier access to the cabin. |