2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Review

The Ram 1500 pickup received few changes for 2008. A new 4.7-liter V-8 engine produces 310 horsepower, an increase from the previous 235-hp, 4.7-liter V-8. Dodge also says it improved the steering linkage in four-wheel-drive models. Those models have a standard electronic transfer case, and Hemi-equipped Rams have fuel-saving cylinder deactivation technology. Dodge's full-size pickup trucks continue to flaunt the look of ruggedness. The Dodge Ram offers big power and big capabilities. It's responsive and comfortable as an everyday 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. Ram Quad Cab models offer a brilliant combination of comfort and utility. Even Regular Cabs are generously roomy and are thoughtfully set up to accommodate gear behind the seat.

Ram 1500 Power

For 2008, the Ram 1500 got a more powerful engine. The standard 3.7-liter V-6 produces 215 hp. Rams can be equipped with a new 310-hp, 4.7-liter Magnum V-8 that can run on regular unleaded fuel, E85 or a combination of the two. A 345-hp, 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 is also available. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a four-speed automatic is optional. With the 4.7- or 5.7-liter engine, the automatic is a five-speed unit. Rear- and four-wheel-drive models are available. Although the suspension regains control fairly quickly, quite a bit of jolting occurs in city driving. The ride improves on the highway. The Ram 1500 is easy to drive and steer, and it responds predictably. A four-wheel-drive version maneuvers capably and takes curves passably well at modest speeds.

Design of the 2008 Ram

 Quad Cab pickups, with four conventional front-hinged doors, can also be equipped with the two bed sizes and are 20 inches longer in both wheelbase and overall length. The rear doors open 85 degrees to ease access. Hoods have a pronounced crown that falls toward the front fenders. The Ram 1500 is a light-duty truck, but it seems big in every way. Ram's trademark front grille remains one of the most instantly recognizable front ends on the road. A thick band of chrome surrounds the grille on ST, SLT and Laramie; the band is body color on Sport models. The broad, sloping hood has a pronounced crown that falls over the sides to the prominent front fenders, helpful for clearance, less so for seeing edges in tight quarters.

Dodge Ram Cabin

A front bench seat holds up to three occupants in a 40/20/40 configuration. A center business console can hold a laptop computer, and the center portion offers under-cushion storage. Quad Cab models have a folding rear seat. Leather upholstery and adjustable pedals are standard in the Laramie model. Dark Maple Burl wood grain for the instrument panel and door accents is now available on Laramie models. Ram 1500 models with cloth seats come with YES Essentials stain-, odor- and static-resistant seat fabric. Three adults fit adequately in a regular cab when the immense center armrest/storage box is raised. Regular Cab and Quad Cab versions offer identical roominess in the front seats. Standard front seating in the Ram is a bench split 40/20/40.The narrow center section features a large fold-down armrest with a compartment big enough to hold a laptop. The Ram interior shows attention to details that add utility and convenience. The big fold-down center armrest/console comes with adjustable dividers and a power outlet. A hook on the passenger-side floor well is provided for securing a plastic grocery bag or anything else with suitable handles.

Ram Trim Levels 2008

 ST is the base model with vinyl upholstery and wind-up windows. ST comes standard with air conditioning, tilt steering, variable intermittent wipers, 40/20/40 vinyl seat, AM/FM/CD stereo, rear-wheel ABS, 17-inch steel wheels and a full-size spare tire, and a V8 and electric-shift transfer case on 4WD.Options include a bed liner, trailer tow mirrors, cruise control, four-wheel ABS, side-curtain airbags, power adjustable pedals, 17-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, and a power sliding rear window for the Quad Cab.
SXT is essentially an ST with cloth upholstery, active turn signals, and remote keyless entry.

SLT comes standard with the 4.7-liter flex-fuel V8, six-disc CD changer, carpeting, power windows/door locks/heated mirrors, overhead console with mini-trip computer and compass, cruise control, and 17-inch painted aluminum wheels. The Sport group for the SLT comes with the Hemi engine and five-speed automatic transmission, unique cloth-faced bucket seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, body-color grille and bumper fascia, fog lamps, and 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels.

Laramie is the luxury trim level, offered only as Quad Cab automatic. It comes standard with dual-zone climate control, steering-wheel mounted audio controls, four-wheel ABS, security alarm, and 20-inch wheels on 2WD models .Leather seats are standard, with a heated, split 40/20/40 bench up front and power adjustment for the driver.

Conclusions

All-disc brakes with a rear-wheel antilock feature are standard. Four-wheel ABS is standard in the Laramie. For more research, read another Dodge Ram 1500 review. Side curtain airbags and an electronic stability system are optional. For 2008, Trailer Sway Control was added to the electronic stability system. Ram was extensively re-engineered for 2006, with a new hydroformed frame that's boxed its full length; plus new suspension and body mounts that improved ride, handling, and quietness. That same year, Ram was modestly restyled inside and out. The Dodge Ram 1500 light-duty pickups are smooth and refined. Their cabs are comfortable and convenient, among the roomiest in their respective classes. The Quad Cab is handy for hauling friends and family but even the Regular Cab is roomy. Overall, this truck is a sure bet for just about every truck need. For the latest updates on this model, visit the official Ram 1500 site.