RAM’s new 1500 ute, that’s the nice-size, almost affordable one — has hit town.
Following a detailed design, homologation and manufacture process, a test fleet embarked on a COVID-safe final validation trip around Australia.
This epic, multi-terrain, route went from Melbourne to Broome to Townsville, and back down to Melbourne again via Alice Springs.
One of the test vehicles undertook a maximum tow rating exercise for the duration of the 30,000km journey.
The new DT model boosts the 1500 range to five models, from the price-leading Express Quad to Crew Cab, Warlock II and now DT versions of Laramie and Limited.
They will be joined by all-new, larger 2500 and 3500 models later in the year.
The sculpted design of the all-new 1500 makes it one of the most aerodynamic utes in the world, with active aerodynamics including active grille shutters and air dams.
It also features next generation Active-Level Four Corner air suspension and powered/retractable side steps.
Petrol 1500s feature a 5.7-litre Hemi V8 with fuel-saving cylinder shutdown.
In addition, the all-new 1500 DT Laramie and Limited models now come with the new eTorque mild hybrid system to improve efficiency and drivability.
This system combines a belt-drive motor generator unit with a 48-volt battery pack to enable start-stop function, short-term torque assist, and brake energy regeneration.
Power and torque outputs are 291kW at 5600rpm and 556Nm at 3950rpm respectively.
The all-new Ram 1500 offers more than 90 safety and security features including Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Pedestrian Detection, Ready Alert Braking and Trailer-sway Damping control, Lane Departure Warning, ParkSense Parallel/Perpendicular Park, Hill-start Assist and LED SmartBeam Intelligent Headlights.
Inside, the 1500 sets new benchmarks for luxury full-size ute, thanks to its first-class levels of space, full-length dual-pane panoramic sunroof, and heated and ventilated leather seats.
A premium 900w Harman Kardon audio system with active noise cancellation provides stadium levels of performance.
The state-of-the-art fourth generation Uconnect 4 system and class-exclusive, 12.0-inch fully configurable touchscreen with split-screen display functionality make for a hi-tech environment.
A 360-degree Surround View Camera, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality, voice-controlled satellite navigation, multifunction USB ports and integrated wireless charging pad add to the fully-connected experience.
The all-new Ram 1500 crew cab has been completely redesigned, further enhancing the already class-leading cabin space and best-in-class rear legroom.
Being longer and wider than its predecessor, including an 80mm increase in cab length – the spacious leather-lined cabin has over 150 litres of internal storage capacity.
The second row includes 60/40 stadium-folding and reclining seats to eight degrees, and a true flat-load floor with integrated RamBins, tie-down rings and expandable under seat storage.
A class-leading reimagined centre console with multiple different storage configurations offers never-before-seen customisation.
Out back, a 1.5 cubic metre tray can be specified with the favoured RamBox Cargo Management System for added usability, while a powered tailgate allows ease of access.
Prices start from $114,950 plus on-roads for the volume-selling Laramie, while the 1500 Limited and Limited Launch Edition are priced at $139,950 plus on-roads.
Ram 1500 Limited
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