The Dodge Ram 1500Tungsten: Where Luxury + Unstoppable Power

Once again, it was love at first sight with this truck. I'm a sucker for big strong, beautiful stylish...trucks.

Check out the video short below for a quick visual review

By Tony Lesesne

Let's get to a point that I want to drive home right from the start.The Ram 1500 offers comfort lavish enough that you'd think it was a pregame for the La-Z-Boy at home. Its not plush, but rather refined. I always place performance at the top of my list so I'll add that its excellent ride and handling are unmatched by other full-size pickups. Offered with engine options ranging from a 305-hp V-6 to a 395-hp V-8, the Ram is good for 12,750 pounds of conventional towing. It's sold with rear- or four-wheel drive, cab options are simplified to an extended cockpit or a larger four-door crew cab, and buyers get to pick a five-foot seven-inch- or six-foot four-inch bed. What's New for 2024?

The price of the 2024 Ram 1500 starts at $41,415 and goes up to $67,805 depending on the trim and options. Opt for the crew cab with four-wheel drive, and spend the money to get the V-8 over the standard V-6. Add the available air suspension for its selectable ride height. As doing so requires either the Level 1 or Level 2 package, we think the latter's the way to go, as it includes items such as remote start, a 115-volt power outlet, front and rear parking sensors, power-adjustable pedals, and passive hands-free entry. 

Behind the wheel of the Tungsten, every drive becomes an event. Whether I'm navigating the urban jungle during rush hour or tackling a challenging off-road trail, the truck exudes an effortless confidence that's hard to ignore. The commanding driving position provides unparalleled visibility, allowing me to anticipate and react to any situation with ease. The advanced driver-assistance systems further enhance this sense of security, making every journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Ram 1500 offers 305-hp 3.6-liter V-6 and 395-hp 5.7-liter V-8 gasoline powertrains that pair with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Both engines are assisted by a 48-volt hybrid system, though the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 is also available without the electric support. For adventurous folk, the rugged Rebel model provides beefier looks and legitimate off-road capability. Every Ram 1500 has an impressive ride thanks to a rear suspension that uses standard coil springs or optional air springs, unlike the traditional leaf-spring setup found on domestic rivals. Models equipped with air suspension even have an adjustable ride height, which aids fuel efficiency and off-road performance.

Beyond the sheer driving experience, the Tungsten pampers its occupants with a level of luxury rarely seen in the segment. The meticulously crafted interior is a sanctuary of refined materials and cutting-edge technology. From the supple leather seats to the advanced infotainment system, every detail speaks to the truck's unwavering focus on providing an unparalleled level of comfort and sophistication. This attention to detail, combined with the truck's undeniable power and towing prowess, clearly demonstrates Dodge's ambition to not only compete but to dominate the fiercely competitive luxury truck segment.

Towing and Payload Capacity

The Ram 1500 can tow up to 12,750 pounds and carry a payload of up to 2320 pounds. Its maximum towing capacity exceeds all but the Ford F-150, which currently tops 13,000 pounds. Rams with the crew cab body style—including the Rebel model—can't tow as much as those with the extended cab. Nonetheless, the more passenger-friendly 1500 crew cab can still tow north of 11,500 pounds.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

With hybridized V-6 and V-8 engines, the Ram 1500 lineup has varied fuel economy. These top out at an EPA-estimated highway range of 25 and 23 mpg combined, respectively. A 1500 Rebel with the gas V-6 we tested returned 24 mpg on our 75-mph real-world fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen. That's slightly better than a V-8 Rebel and a V-8 Laramie, which lacked electric-assist, we tested. For more information about the Ram 1500's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The 2025 Ram 1500 Tungsten boasts an interior brimming with cutting-edge technology, elevating the driving experience to new heights.   Inside, the Ram 1500 has supremely functional cubby stowage and cavernous passenger space. Higher trims add upscale materials and creature comforts, making the Ram feel more like a luxury vehicle than a pickup truck. Most models are available with upscale features such as heated and ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof, while the fanciest versions have premium leather surfaces and genuine wood accents.

 As with most full-size pickup trucks, the Ram 1500's crew cab is supremely spacious. It also has vast amounts of interior storage and a unique split-folding tailgate. Both the five-foot-seven-inch and six-foot-four-inch cargo beds are available, but the extended-cab body style only pairs with the latter. Ram doesn't offer the 1500 with a regular cab, though it does sell the prior generation truck, the 1500 Classic, with such a body style. I lovethat body style because its truly a Dodge.

The Dodge RamBox (pictured at right) is a truly innovative cargo management system that sets it apart from other trucks. It features two lockable, weatherproof storage bins integrated into the sides of the truck bed. This provides secure, weather-resistant storage for tools, gear, or any other items you need to keep dry and organized. The RamBox also includes features like LED lighting and a 115-volt power outlet, making it incredibly convenient for work or play.

Here are some of the more impressive interior tech and design comfort features:

• Digital Dominance: A massive 14.5-inch touchscreen takes center stage, offering intuitive control over the Uconnect 5 infotainment system. This high-resolution display boasts split-screen functionality, allowing drivers to multitask seamlessly.   

• Driver-Focused Innovation: A 12-inch digital instrument cluster provides customizable displays, keeping vital vehicle information readily accessible. For an even more immersive experience, a 10-inch head-up display projects key data directly onto the windshield, minimizing driver distraction.   

  

  
  

• Passenger Pampering: The Tungsten introduces a first-ever 10.25-inch front passenger interactive display. This dedicated screen allows the co-pilot to enjoy independent entertainment, navigation, and vehicle controls, enhancing the overall ride experience.   

• Connectivity and Convenience: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration ensures seamless smartphone integration. The truck also features a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, keeping passengers connected on the go.   

• Premium Audio Experience: A world-class Klipsch® Reference Premiere Audio System with 23 speakers delivers an immersive audio experience, transforming every journey into a concert hall.   

These technological advancements not only enhance convenience and entertainment but also contribute to a more informed and engaging driving experience in the 2025 Ram 1500 Tungsten.

 Sources and related content

Infotainment and Connectivity

Ram trucks have had one of the best infotainment systems and connectivity features in the class for a while. That continues in the latest trucks, which have either a responsive 8.4-inch or an optional 12.0-inch touchscreen that is available on all but the base Ram model. Too bad we experienced a lot of glitches with the huge display during the course of our 40,000-mile long-term test. Both systems are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible, and even the larger touchscreen includes a handful of redundant knobs and buttons.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)

The Ram 1500 has a host of available driver-assistance technology ranging from automated emergency braking to lane-keeping assist. For more information about the Ram 1500's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert

• Available automatic high-beam headlights

• Available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Ram has a competitive limited and powertrain warranty that is only eclipsed by the Nissan Titan's lengthier coverage. Likewise, the half-ton Sierra and Silverado as well as the Toyota Tundra offer complimentary scheduled maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles

• Powertrain warranty covers five years or 50,000 miles

• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

In a world saturated with ordinary trucks, the Ram 1500 Tungsten stands alone. It's a testament to engineering brilliance and a showcase of unparalleled luxury. This isn't just a vehicle for transportation; it's an experience. The Tungsten is for those who demand the best, those who seek a truck that transcends expectations and delivers an unmatched blend of power, refinement, and capability. It's the absolute pinnacle of the modern pickup truck, a masterpiece for the discerning few.