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2014 RAM 1500 Langhorne, PA
For 2014, the RAM 1500 continued to raise the innovation bar for other full-size pickups with the debut of a segment-exclusive EcoDiesel engine. The debut of the EcoDiesel follows last year's introduction of an award-winning Pentastar V-6 that made headlines with its substantial 42 percent increase in horsepower, 20 percent increase in efficiency and best-in-class V-6 mpg. Also on 2014 models are front parking sensors.
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2014 RAM 1500 Style & Design
Everything on the RAM looks big, yet the truck takes up no more real estate than its competitors. The illusion comes from the shape and the most aggressive grille on the market. Some side mirrors stand off from the door glass, the sides are fairly flat, and the tailgate spoiler and windshield are both rounded for improved aerodynamics. On upper trim-level variants the mirrors have LED puddle lamps and the headlamps are projector-beam units with LED signals. We'd rank the RAM cabin at or near the top of its class. Full instrumentation includes a tachometer, with myriad other data in the display between the primary gauges. The dashboard is nicely framed, with symmetry throughout.
Power & Handling of the '14 1500
On the road without a trailer the 2014 RAM 1500's 3.6-liter V6 goes much better than the old 3.7, credit as much the extra power as the extra lower gears. Transmissions work as expected with modern, electronic-authority automatics. The Tow/Haul mode is standard and useful when towing. Activating Tow/Haul may take the truck out of top gear but it does not lock it out; you can still cruise in overdrive with Tow/Haul on. The RAM rides very well and in comparing it to the competitors it comes across as the best blend of ride and control, whether you're on 17-inch wheels or the big 20s.
Conclusion
The RAM 1500 pushes even further ahead, in its quest to be the most efficient full-size truck. It already had the highest EPA ratings for its base V-6 drivetrain; now it's adding the first turbodiesel in its class.