2017 Dodge Ram 1500 Review
The Dodge Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck that was first introduced in 1981. It has been redesigned and updated every few years, with the most recent redesign in 2011. Notable changes occurred in 2003 and 2010, when a 4.7L V8 engine was added and later upgraded to 5.7L, respectively.
In 2018, Dodge upgraded much of the Ram’s interior machinery and added new exterior paint options and wheel designs while maintaining its trademark rugged style. This model also features increased sound dampening materials and improved onboard computer systems for better visibility inside and out.
The Dodge Ram 1500 is powered by a 3.0L V6 naturally aspirated engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Additionally, in 2010, the Ram 1500 was upgraded with an 8.4L V10 engine, shared with the 2011-2012 Dodge Charger and Challenger models, producing nearly 280 horsepower.
The 2017 model year introduced several changes, including refreshed exterior paint schemes, interior restyling, aluminum wheels, and new grade-point seat belts.
Also read: How to Paint a Motorcycle Helmet
2017 Dodge Ram 1500 Features
Uconnect Infotainment with 8.4-Inch Screen: The new Uconnect infotainment system in the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 features an 8.4-inch touchscreen and driver-assist technology, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Automatic Dual-Zone Climate Control: The 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 includes automatic dual-zone climate control for enhanced comfort. This feature allows you to control the climate systems from either the driver’s seat or via a smartphone app.
Anti-Spin Differential: The anti-spin differential, a type of traction control, is used in both four-wheel-drive and some rear-drive models. It ensures the wheels drive at the same speed, preventing slippage or free spinning during acceleration or turning.
Premium Gauge Cluster: The 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 comes standard with a premium gauge cluster featuring an all-digital display with an eight-inch screen. This cluster offers increased visibility, improved responsiveness, and compatibility with the Uconnect infotainment system. It also includes a rearview camera.
Rear Park Assist: The rear park assist feature in the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 aids in maneuvering into tight parking spaces. Sensors fitted to the rear bumper detect obstacles up to six feet away, making reversing easier.
2017 Dodge Ram 1500 Specs
- Engine: V6 Flex Fuel 3.6 Liter Pentastar
- Trim: Tradesman 2WD Short Bed Regular Cab
- Class: Full-Size Pickup LD
- Horsepower: 305 @ 6400 RPM
- Transmission: 8 Speed Automatic Mode Select with Manual Mode (845RE)
- Body Style: Truck
- Drivetrain: RWD
- Fuel Type: Unleaded Regular
- Seating Capacity: 3 persons
Safety Features
In 2018, Dodge introduced new safety features for their Ram trucks. When equipped with the 3.6L V10 engine and front-end collision mitigation, the Ram warns of potential crash hazards if the driver crosses a median without slowing down.
A similar feature has been available since 2010 on trucks equipped with the 5.7L HEMI or the 4.7L Pentastar V8 engines but had not been offered with front-end collision mitigation until this year’s model.
Another new safety feature is the Blind Spot Information System (BSIS), which detects vehicles in the Ram’s blind spots and alerts the driver with a light bar on the side mirrors.
The Dodge Ram 1500 has a stylish design and is sure to turn heads. The truck’s interior is equipped with features to ensure comfort and safety, such as auxiliary switches for running devices, heated seats and steering wheel, Uconnect Bluetooth, six speakers, and many other amenities.
The exterior of the truck is larger than it appears from the inside, featuring a four-door crew-cab design. The wheels are black, matching the trim color scheme, with options for aluminum or chrome wheels on some models.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 is rated at 17 city/25 highway by the EPA, slightly lower than the 2016 model’s rating of 18 city/26 highway.
Also read: Everything About the CAN-AM Ryker: An in-depth Look
Conclusion
Despite a few minor issues, such as problems with lights and other malfunctions, the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 offers great value considering its price-to-performance ratio. Its affordability and performance in various road conditions make it an excellent choice for truckers. The Ram 1500 has solid build quality and good resale value, making it a reliable investment for those needing a durable workhorse that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Leave a Reply