Ultimate Hauler: 2010 Didge Ram HD

Cars

By Ken Chester Jr., Motor News Media Corporation

Last update: October 15, 2009 - 3:05 PM

Dodge's 2010 Ram Heavy Duty (HD) pickup trucks are available for the first time in a crew-size cab model - providing Dodge with a formidable entry in the highest-volume part of the heavy-duty pickup segment. Bold, powerful and capable, the 2010 Ram Heavy-Duty lineup offers innovative features along with new standards of strength and utility.

Body styles include Regular, Crew and MEGA cab configurations; available models are 2500 and 3500 versions; and five trim levels are offered: ST, SLT, TRX, Laramie and Power Wagon.

The 2010 Ram HD is clearly about capability. In fact, its many features - including power train, towing and payload capacities, driving dynamics, amenities and styling - truly make it the ultimate heavy-duty pickup truck.

Power for the truck starts with a 5.7L Hemi V-8 gasoline engine with torque transferred through the standard, heavy-duty, five-speed automatic transmission. It offers Electronic Range Select and tow-haul capability that provide a unique shift schedule that minimizes gear hunting while towing heavy loads. It also provides automatic downshift capability while decelerating. The optional Cummins 6.7L turbo diesel engine can be mated to a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual has an ultra-low first-gear ratio, which makes it ideal for heavy hauling requirements, while the six-speed automatic offers ease of driveability and towing. Additionally, the Cummins 6.7L meets the most stringent of the 50-state emission requirements and includes a segment-exclusive standard exhaust brake. Most models and trim levels are available in either two-wheel or four-wheel drive.

Payload capacity for the Ram truck is 5,110 pounds. Towing capacity is 18,500 pounds.

Inside the passenger cabin, the new Ram HD offers abundant amenities, comfort and convenience. Many of the features were pioneered with last year's Ram 1500. Interior appointments include soft-feel door bolsters and armrests and one-piece molded door panels. Seats are redesigned with improved power lumbar and lateral support. Six-ring instrumentation keeps track of vehicle functions, while many controls are arrayed in the center stack for easy reach to buttons and knobs.

Storage is top-of-mind with many work- and leisure-oriented customers, and Dodge provides many more storage locations.

A new-for-2010 available center console features an upper bin that is large enough to hold a laptop computer (with an accessible power outlet), and a lower bin that accommodates hanging files. In addition, the console offers several other storage compartments.

EPA fuel economy:

City: 15, Highway: 20 (2500 models)

Average Base Price:

$30,385

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