Greenbrier Dodge

When Dodge gave its full-size Ram pickup “big rig” styling in 1994, the bold new look helped triple market share. A significant 2002 update gave it fresh sheet metal, new engines and larger cabs. For 2009, Dodge introduces its next-generation Ram pickup....

 

The 2009 Rams have two new innovative storage systems and feature three engines, including an updated HEMI V-8. Redesigned with freshened styling, new comfort and convenience features, and more available power, this large pickup truck is offered as a 2-door regular cab and two 4-door cabs with conventional doors--the Quad Cab and the Crew Cab. The regular cab offers 6.4- and 8-foot cargo beds. The Quad Cab comes with a 6.4-foot bed while the Crew Cab uses a 5.7-foot bed. Regular cabs seat up to three passengers, the others up to six.

Model Lineup
Ram 1500 is available with three engines: a 215-hp 3.7-liter V6; a 310-hp 4.7-liter V8; and a 390-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V8. The 380-hp engine replaces 2008's 345-hp 5.7-liter Hemi. The 4.7 V8 is capable of running on E85 ethanol-blended fuel. The V6 comes only with a 4-speed automatic transmission, V8s only with a 5-speed automatic. The V6 is only available on rear-wheel-drive models. ST, SLT, and Laramie trims are offered. All Rams are available with rear-wheel drive or with 4-wheel drive that should not be left engaged on dry pavement. Optional is 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement. Both 4WD systems include a low-range gear for off-roading. Maximum towing capacity is 8950 pounds. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, an antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. New for 2009 is the Ram Box Storage System. Available only on Crew Cabs, the Ram Box option includes lockable cargo-bed storage bins and a bed divider that doubles as a bed extender

Among the new options for 2009,  heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, a pair of “store in the floor” storage bins, and Dodge’s RamBox storage system. The interior storage bins have removable liners and can hold up to 10 soda cans and ice. The RamBox system is offered only with the Crew Cab. With 4.3 cubic feet of storage space in each bed rail. RamBox is weatherproof, lockable, illuminated, and drainable. RamBox also has a bed extender and a cargo rail system with four sliding, adjustable cleats.

Hardware
Like the 2008 models, 2009 Ram 1500s  come with a choice of one V-6 and two V-8 engines. The V-6 is a 3.7-liter engine that puts out 210 hp. Offered only in only in regular cab and Quad Cab models with 2WD. All 4WD and Crew Cab models come standard with Dodge’s 4.7-liter Magnum V-8 engine, which makes 310 hp and 330 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine is FlexFuel  - capable, meaning it can operate on regular unleaded fuel or E85 ethanol. The top engine choice however, is the upgraded version of the vaunted 5.7-liter V-8. For 2009, the HEMI has variable valve timing and other improvements that will provide a 4-percent increase in fuel economy, a 10-percent increase in horsepower and an 8-percent increase in torque. Pushing 380 hp and 404 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2009 Ram is able to launch from 0 to 60 mph in less than 7 seconds.

The HEMI has Dodge’s Multi-Displacement System (MDS), which shuts down four cylinders under light engine loads to conserve fuel. In the 2009 models, MDS will operate more often due to the upgraded HEMI. A 5-speed automatic transmission with a tow/haul mode is standard with the 5.7L and optional with the 4.7L V-8 engine.

Not to mention up to 15 mpg city/20 mpg highway with the V-6 engine and up to 13 mpg city/19 mpg highway with the V8 adding even more appeal to the truck consumers.

Under the skin, the 2009 Dodge Ram’s frame is highly modified and the rear section completely new to accommodate a segment-exclusive multi-link coil spring rear suspension (as opposed to leaf springs). With 4-wheel disc brakes standard, wheel sizes will range from 17 to 20 inches. pounds.

Safety
The 2009 Dodge Ram has more standard safety equipment than the current model. All come with dual-stage front air bags, curtain side air bags, anti-lock brakes with brake assist, tire-pressure monitor, traction control, and electronic stability control with Hill Start Assist and Dodge’s Trailer Sway Control. Rear park assist and a rear back-up camera are also available.