Ram 1500

The redesigned Ram 1500 continues to be the most civilized among full-size pickup trucks, partly due to its rear coil-spring suspension setup. The smooth 5.7-liter V8 carries over, and with the mild-hybrid option, ensures smooth stop-start at idle without compromising the air conditioning. We got 17 mpg overall with it. The base 3.6-liter V6 has that setup as standard equipment. Handling is secure and responsive for such a large truck. The cabin is extremely quiet. In most versions, four-wheel-drive can remain engaged indefinitely, a plus. Rear-seat room is generous, and the Uconnect touch-screen infotainment system is easy to use. The top trim Limited is lavishly furnished inside, and features an enormous 12-inch touch screen for the Uconnect system.

The Ram's 2013 update brought a lighter and stiffer frame, along with Chrysler's advanced UConnect 8.4 touchscreen interface. We consider this system to be one of the clearest and most intuitive of its type. Interior fit and finish are strong and storage is more than ample too. The roomy Crew Cab has a huge backseat and towing ratings are competitive with other full-size pickups. However, overall payload capacity is a bit light when compared to chief rivals'. A very nice diesel option arrived for 2014.

Ram became a separate brand for the Dodge pickups in 2011. The 2009 redesign brought the Ram 1500 up-to-date with a coil-spring rear suspension, which improved ride and handling significantly. This made the pickup fully competitive in the marketplace. Fuel economy for the 5.7-liter V8 was improved and cabin quiet approached that of a luxury car's. If towing is important to you, be aware that models with the 20-inch wheel option sacrifice 1,000 pounds of rated capacity.