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2013 Ram 1500 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Ram 1500 highlights

Customer rating

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RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • New eight-speed automatic boosts economy
  • Previously weak V6 engine replaced by a significantly better one

Cons

  • Fewer appealing engine choices than its rivals
  • Outright towing capacity is slightly less than top rivals

Mileage (EPA estimate)

13 city, 19 highway, N/A combined

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Already winning 2013 Ram 1500 gets stronger base engine

The 2013 Ram 1500 might not look different, but sharp-eyed fans will notice its slightly larger grille and restyled headlights and LED taillights. And Ram made more significant changes under the skin. There's a stronger but lighter frame, and Ram addressed the chief criticism of the previous model, its weak entry-level V6. For 2013 there's an all-new V6, a 3.6-liter boasting 90 more horsepower for a 305-hp output. It's paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission and is significantly better in both performance and economy than the previous engine. Two V8s sit above it, a 4.7-liter with 310 hp and a 5.7-liter with 395 hp, and both use an automatic. All Ram 1500s are offered in rear- or all-wheel drive, with a choice of cab and bed lengths to suit your specific passenger and payload requirements.

For a truck that'll be bought with work in mind, the Ram remains uncommonly good at feeling a cut above its competition. The ride is civilized thanks to its coil-spring rear suspension, while the fit and finish inside feels positively luxurious compared to rivals. The base Tradesman trim level is decently appointed for a work-oriented truck; the SLT adds some convenience features; and the Sport brings body-colored bumpers, power seats, Bluetooth® connectivity, and sportier looks. Other available trims include the Laramie Longhorn and Laramie Limited, while a number of options, including differing axle ratios, or the HFE (high fuel economy) package, let you choose your Ram exactly how you like it.

All Ram 1500 years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Ram 1500 generation from 2012 to 2026

What is new for the 2013 Ram 1500?

  • The 1500 is available in a new trim called the HFE.
  • The ST trim has been discontinued for 2013.
  • 1500 trims have been upgraded with Rear Defroster and Smart Key as standard equipment this year.
  • Automated Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitor, Lane Departure Warning, and Manual Transmission features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The Tradesman trim now comes with Cruise Control as standard equipment.
  • The SLT trim now comes with Power Seat(s) as standard equipment.
  • The Express trim now comes with Cloth Seats and Cruise Control as standard equipment.
  • The Laramie trim now comes with A/C Seat(s) and Rear Seat Heaters as standard equipment.
  • The Outdoorsman trim now comes with Bluetooth Technology as standard equipment.
  • The Bighorn trim now comes with Bluetooth Technology as standard equipment.
  • The Lonestar trim now comes with Bluetooth Technology as standard equipment.

5 reasons to buy the 2013 Ram 1500

1. Useful tech

When the day feels easier, the work does too. The Ram 1500 has plenty of tech that helps everything run smoothly. If you want to plug into your online world, all 2013 models are equipped with an auxiliary jack and USB port for connecting to compatible devices. The Ram 1500 Uconnect® system features Bluetooth® connectivity for hands-free calling to your home or head office (package option, standard on Sport and Laramie trims).

2. Powerful V6 and V8s

A great engine with the horses and torque to deliver access-all-areas driving is a must-have for working trucks. The 2013 Ram 1500's three powertrain options do not disappoint. Base Tradesman models are motivated by a 4.7L V8, good for 310 hp, 330 lb-ft of torque, and an EPA-estimated 16 mpg combined.

New for 2013 (and standard on the mid-range SLT trim) is a 3.6L V6 engine paired to a new eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering an EPA-estimated 20 mpg combined.
All other models have the blockbuster 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine, delivering 395 hp and 407 lb-ft of torque, and an estimated towing capacity of up to 10,350 lbs in the Quad Cab configuration, when properly equipped.

3. Practical cabin

Your crew will appreciate the Ram 1500's spacious cabin features. Solo entrepreneurs and partnerships will be happy with the three-seater regular cab, while bigger crews (up to six), can pick from the Quad or Crew Cab configurations. Drink holders are plentiful across all rows and there's discreet storage too, like the in-floor compartments on Crew Cab models and a dual glove box for the SLT trim and above. New features for the 2013 model year only serve to elevate the ride experience, including redesigned air vents throughout, updated interior colorway options, and for the Sport and Laramie trims, LED ambient interior lighting.

4. Impressive options

For crews that want to lock away large equipment like chainsaws, shovels, and toolboxes, the optional RamBox® system (5'7" or 6'4" beds only) offers the perfect solution. These two lockable, drainable, and weatherproof compartments are affixed on either side of the truck bed, allowing you to secure valuable items during site visits and camping trips. Other clever add-ons for your truck include a tonneau bed cover and trailer tow equipment. And if you deserve a touch of luxury, pick one of the Laramie trims for butter-soft leather upholstery.

5. Rugged functionality

When the going gets tough, the Ram 1500 gets going. Need to navigate rough terrain to reach your destination? Four-wheel drive is available on all trims. You can also adjust your ride height automatically with the 2013 Ram 1500's optional Active-Level™ air suspension system (Quad and Crew Cab only). Standard fit electronic stability control and heavy-duty shock absorbers will keep you firmly planted in challenging conditions, while the optional rearview camera (standard on Laramie trims) assures you of spatial awareness in town and country alike.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

The 2013 Ram 1500 is not yet rated. Help future customers learn about a car you've owned and write a review.

RepairPal reliability rating

3
1
2
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Ram 1500 an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Ram 1500 3rd out of 19 among Fullsize Trucks.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Ram 1500

Ram 1500 features and specs

Curious how Ram 1500 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Express 2WD 2D Regular Cab

Standard Features

  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Vinyl Seats

Optional Features

  • Bed Cover
  • Bed Liner
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Long Bed
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Rear View Camera
  • Remote Start
  • Running Boards
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Smart Key
  • Tow Hitch

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

5.7L

Horsepower

395

Torque (ft-lbs)

407

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

26

Wheelbase

120.5"

Overall length

209"

Width

79.4"

Height

74.6"

Leg room

F 41"

Head room

F 40.3"

Front tires

P275/60R20

Rear tires

P275/60R20

Seating capacity

3

Max towing capacity

925/9250 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2013 Ram 1500 FAQ

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