2013 Ram 1500 Reviews, Pictures and Prices

in Full Size Pickup Trucks

Based on analysis of 51 reviews and test drives.

Avg. Paid:$23,346 - $46,983

MSRP: $22,900 - $47,730

Invoice: $21,477 - $43,761

MPG: 14 City / 20 Hwy

Ram 1500 Review

Scorecard

Overall:	2013 Ram 1500 U.S. News Best Cars 8.6
Critics' Rating:	9.2
Performance:	8.5
Interior:	8.3
Safety:	8.2
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

The 2013 Ram 1500 ranks 1 out of 10 Full Size Pickup Trucks. This ranking is based on our analysis of 51 published reviews and test drives of the Ram 1500, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2013 Ram 1500 is a top choice for its outstanding V6 fuel economy, refined ride and well-built interior with lots of standard features.

Test drivers say the Ram 1500 is a great-performing truck. With a new optional V6 for 2013, the Ram delivers a class-leading 17/25 mpg city/highway, and reviewers say it still has plenty of power for daily driving and light towing and hauling. For more serious work, though, they prefer the optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8. A new eight-speed automatic transmission is standard with the V6 and optional with the Hemi. A six-speed automatic is standard. The Ram 1500 has a unique rear suspension that auto critics say gives it the most comfortable ride in the class, while also delivering decent handling. Some critics note that the Ram 1500’s steering feels accurate and provides reasonable feedback (for a truck) to the driver. Keep in mind that the Ram 1500 has a below-average reliability score for the class.

The Ram 1500’s cabin is also one of the best in the class, according to reviewers. Seating capacity ranges from three to six people, with the crew cab being the most spacious configuration for rear passengers. Critics say that the gauges are easy to read and climate and audio controls easy to operate. A six-speaker stereo with a USB port is standard on the base model, while upper trims add features like power windows and mirrors, navigation and an infotainment system. The voice control feature of the infotainment system is praised as being one of the best in the industry.

"It's hard to go wrong with any full-size truck these days, but if you want a really nice one, the Ram 1500 ranks as our favorite." -- Edmunds
"Until now, V6 pickups were generally low-priced base models with little power or appeal. The Ram changes that, with a long list of advanced features and a correspondingly high price." -- The Detroit Free Press
"Besides all-new interiors and evolutionary styling-still boldly unmistakable-the new Ram stands out for four key distinctions: its new standard V-6; its new eight-speed automatic transmission; its stop/start technology; and its air-spring suspension." -- Popular Mechanics

Other Full-Size Pickups to Consider

The Ford F-150 offers more engine choices and a higher towing capacity than the Ram 1500. While its base V6 can’t match the fuel economy of the Ram 1500’s V6, it’s fairly close. Reviewers also say that the F-150 has a well-built, upscale interior.

Though it's a much older design than either the Ford or Ram, reviewers say the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is still worth a look. They’re pleased with its towing and hauling abilities, as well as its comfortable ride and comparably good fuel economy from its optional 5.3-liter V8.

Compare the 1500, F-150 and Silverado »

Details: 2013 Ram 1500

The Ram 1500 seats three people with a regular cab configuration or six in quad and crew cabs, and there are three available bed lengths, depending on the cab configuration. The base model comes with a 4.7-liter V8, while a V6 and more powerful V8 are optional. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard, and an eight-speed automatic is optional. Four-wheel drive is optional on most trims. There are nine trim levels available: base Tradesman, Express, SLT, HFE, Lone Star/Big Horn, Outdoorsman, Sport, Laramie and Laramie Longhorn. The Ram 1500 was thoroughly redesigned for 2013.

See the full 2013 Ram 1500 specs »

Review Last Updated: 4/18/13