2008 Dodge Ram 2500 - Vehicle Reviews

Overview

The Dodge Ram is named after the "Ram" hood ornament that was used in the first Dodge cars during the 1930s. The Dodge Ram, which made its debut in 1981, has been the first choice of truck users for hardcore towing and load carrying.
The three-quarter-ton Ram pickup comes in regular cab and four-door quad cab body styles. A V-6 engine moves the light-duty Rams, while the heavy-duty pickups are powered by V-8 engines. A power wagon version of the 2500 pickup is available, while a mega cab model is also offered. All Rams can tow up to 13,350 pounds.
For 2008, the Dodge Ram heavy-duty lineup gets a new trim, the SXT, slotted between ST and SLT levels. Other updates include wood-grain trimmings (dark maple burl), four-wheel-drive on SLT and higher level trims, tire-pressure monitors on single rear-wheel models, and a slight increase in maximum weight for the larger models.
Ram 2500 is available in three body styles: regular, quad cab and mega cab. Also available are four packages: a sports appearance package on the SLT trim, a TRX off-road package, a power wagon, and a Laramie package.

Powertrain and performance

The 2500 Ram comes equipped with a 5.7-liter, Hemi V-8 engine producing 345 horsepower and 375 pound-feet torque. A diesel version of the 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel engine, producing 350 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque, is available. The diesel engine is the quietest engine ever fitted in a pickup.

Body and Styling

The regular cabs come with an 8-foot long bed, while the quad cab comes with a choice of a short 6.3-foot bed and a 8-foot-long cargo bed. Mega cab gets a bigger cabin with a short bed or the quad cab�s long bed.
All Rams have an upgraded steering system. The 2WD mega cab comes with rack-and-pinion steering, while the 4WD models come with a re-circulating ball system. The steering wheel turns smoothly and provides easy handling.
The 17-inch wheels come standard on all trims and are available in four different kinds of polish. A 7x 10-inch trailer tow mirror is now standard.

Safety Features

Standard safety features across trims include four-wheel anti-lock brakes; double wishbone independent front suspension; Hotchkiss rear suspension; and Bilstein mono-tube shock resistance for axle and wheels.