2013 RAM 1500 Review Summaries

What reviewers liked most about the RAM 1500:

The 2013 Ram 1500 SLT is essentially like driving a Chrysler 300 with a bed. Our judges were blown away by the smooth, quiet driving experience.

-- Motor Trend

What reviewers liked least about the RAM 1500:

Also big news, according to Chrysler, is the eight speed's twist-dial transmission control. Some of our testers, myself included, found it untrucklike, but it is nice to have it mounted on the dash and not on the column or console. We disagree with Ram's assertion that it's easier to operate while wearing gloves; it seems a column shifter is almost ideal for that. It is probably just a question of getting used to it, but I wasn't the only tester to turn up the volume on the radio while trying to go from reverse to drive in a three-point turn.

-- Motor Trend

The other issue is the small, steering-wheel-mounted push buttons for manually shifting gears. The upshift/downshift buttons are located right above the cruise control buttons and aren't well-differentiated. If Ram is truly concerned about drivers being able to operate everything while wearing gloves, the buttons are not the answer. Paddles are the answer. The car industry figured it out several years ago; and although people keep trying different things, the answer is paddles.

-- Motor Trend

RAM 1500 Comparisons:

And although the Ram already arguably had the nicest cabin in its class, it's even nicer now. Premium materials are used liberally, while available conveniences include keyless entry/ignition and even a WiFi hotspot link.

-- Edmunds.com

With so much capability and luxury, the 2013 Ram 1500 stands out because it makes an owner's life easier. This is especially true of the higher trim levels that offer features unavailable in rivals. That said, the Chevy Silverado 1500, Ford F-150 and Toyota Tundra are also solid entries in this class. 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.com

Best one-liner about the RAM 1500:

Pretty much everything about this new truck is very well executed.

-- Car and Driver

At the end of our testing, the decision was unanimous. Hands down, the Ram ran away with this Truck of the Year award.

-- Motor Trend