First look: 2014 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel

The diesel-powered Ram made a big splash at the recent Texas Truck Rodeo, held at the beautiful Knibbe Ranch in Spring Branch, Texas. How big? Well, it's currently the only half-ton pickup offered with diesel power. The appeal for truck buyers is big torque, big towing, a claimed notable boost in fuel economy, without having to jump up to a heavy-duty truck. (See our Ram road test.)

Here's a look at some of the vital specifics of this intriguing new truck.

• 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6
• 240 horsepower
• 420 lb.-ft. of torque
• Eight-speed automatic
• 50-state emissions compliance
• Requires refilling an eight-gallon Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) tank about every 10,000 miles. (The fluid is commonly available at fuel stations and Ram and Cummins dealers.)
• Can tow up to 9,200 pounds
• Diesel powertrain has a reputation for durability

Ram officials say that it's too early to know how the EPA will rate the diesel Ram's city and combined mpg, but they are confident that 27 mpg on the highway is realistic. I was also told that the company feels that the 3.0-liter diesel will better the truck's gas V6 model, which clocks in at 18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway (with the eight-speed transmission).

But perhaps the biggest stumbling block might be the price: The premium for the diesel is an extra $2,850 over the Hemi V8. I think, though, that any automaker bringing more diesel options to consumers is a good thing. And this particular engine is a wonder, as it pulls strongly and relatively quietly. I missed the typical—and quite melodious—Hemi V8 rumble, but I could live without it in return for the potential fuel savings.

As we've already published, we like the Ram a lot. The diesel version adds to our admiration of this well-sorted truck. We'll see how it measures up to the regular Ram 1500 and our expectations when we purchase one to test.

—Mike Quincy