2017 Ram 1500 review
Ram 1500 highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Suspension impressively mixes a supple ride with agility
- Refined engine choices are smooth and powerful
Cons
- Maximum towing capacity lags top rivals
- Impressive diesel engine is expensive
Mileage (EPA estimate)
15 city, 21 highway, 17 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
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Ultra-capable 2017 Ram 1500 is a real favorite
One of the oldest competitors among the full-size light-duty pickup trucks, the 2017 Ram 1500 remains a very competitive, appealing choice even against newer designs from Ford and General Motors. The way the Ram 1500 drives is key to this—its coil-spring rear suspension, which might slightly hurt its towing ability, does wonders for its handling. The Ram 1500 rides with a sophistication that's more akin to a big SUV than a working truck. And when you add all the engine choices into the mix, it makes for a compelling, capable all-rounder.
There is plenty of variety to go with the Ram 1500's utility. The lineup offers three spacious cab and four cargo bed options (with some neat optional storage solutions), three powerful engines (a capable base gasoline 3.6-liter V6, a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6, or a range-topping 5.7-liter V8), rear- or four-wheel drive, a smooth automatic transmission, and an optional air suspension to improve the driving experience even more. The interior remains among the finest around for fit and finish as well as quality of materials, while the infotainment system is easy to use too. All of the 10 trim levels come with an appropriate level of standard equipment for their pricing, whether you're wanting a work-oriented truck or something luxurious to haul a boat or water toys. It all combines to make the Ram 1500 one of our favorite pickup trucks among 2017 models.
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 2017 Ram 1500?
- The 1500 is available in a new trim called the Night.
- The HFE Express, HFE Tradesman, and SSV trims have been discontinued for 2017.
- 1500 trims have been upgraded with Long Bed and Bed Liner as standard equipment this year.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features are now available as options on select trims.
- The Sport trim now comes with Vinyl Seats, Remote Start, and Flex Fuel Vehicle as standard equipment.
- The Lonestar trim now comes with Smart Key, Alpine Sound System, and Running Boards as standard equipment.
- The Laramie Limited trim now comes with Rear Defroster, Tow Hitch, Bluetooth Technology, and Satellite Radio Ready as standard equipment.
- The Laramie Longhorn trim now comes with Smart Key and Bluetooth Technology as standard equipment.
- The Laramie trim now comes with Turbo Diesel Engine as standard equipment.
- The Rebel trim now comes with Parking Sensors, Rear View Camera, and Remote Start as standard equipment.
- The HFE trim now comes with Power Locks, Power Mirrors, Power Windows, Vinyl Seats, 20 Inch Plus Wheels, 4WD/AWD, and Turbo Diesel Engine as standard equipment.
2017 Ram 1500 trims
Curious how Ram 1500 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similaritiesTradesman:
Features include quad-halogen headlamps, three cupholders, 17-inch wheels, locking tailgate, spray-in bedliner, cruise control, manual air-conditioning, 40/20/40-split front bench seat, vinyl upholstery and flooring, tilt-only steering wheel, six-speaker sound system, hill start assist, trailer sway damping, USB port, and more.
EcoDiesel HFE:
Includes, black bumpers and grille, tonneau cover, and heated mirrors.
Express:
Adds 20-inch aluminum wheels, fog lights, carpeted floors, and more.
Big Horn®:
adds remote keyless entry, rearview camera, upgraded cloth upholstery, 10-way power driver seat, Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, 8.4-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, and more.
Sport:
Adds body-color exterior trim, LED accent lighting, second USB port, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, and more. The Sport trim in regular cab also benefits from a limited-slip differential and seven-speaker audio system.
Night:
An off-road-specific 1500, that includes trim-specific black fender flares, high-back bucket seats, tow hooks, LED fog lights, and keyless entry.
Rebel:
Adds premium cloth two-tone bucket seats with an embossed tread pattern, Bilstein shock absorbers, red accent stitching, sports performance hood, and rear parking sensors.
Laramie®:
Adds auto-dimming mirrors, wood interior trim, heated and ventilated leather-trimmed front seats, vinyl rear seats, 10-speaker audio system. and more.
Laramie Longhorn®:
Adds keyless entry and ignition, remote start, available heated second-row seats (crew cab only), front and rear parking sensors, wood-accented steering wheel, upgraded leather upholstery, premium navigation system, and more.
Limited:
Adds side-step bars (diesel engine models), automatic windshield wipers, rear-window defroster, monotone paint, automatic high beams, chrome grille, active-level four-corner air suspension system, and more.
Ram 1500 photos
5 reasons to buy the 2017 Ram 1500
1. Stunning storage solutions
It's great to find a truck with lots of storage solutions for your passengers. Letting the box bed take the strain for the big items, you and your passengers still need storage for toolboxes, lunch boxes, and everything in between. Crew Cab models have in-floor storage bins and under-seat storage. As you move up the trim levels, you can also expect a deep center console bin and dual gloveboxes (from Big Horn® trim). The Quad Cab® and Crew Cab second-row seating folds away for more cargo space if you need it. There's even the optional RamBox® system that adds a pair of lockable compartments along the inside of the truck bed.
2. Robust engine choices
The 2017 RAM 1500 has three power-packed engines that can handle all the tough jobs that come your way. Working in winter conditions? The standard 3.6L Pentastar V6 has a thermal management system that helps to maintain the right temperatures for its internal components to perform at their best. If your truck is in constant use, the optional 5.7L HEMI® V8, and 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 tick all sorts of boxes depending on your needs.
3. Ten trims (and multiple configurations)
The 2017 RAM 1500 is available in many configurations: there are three cab sizes, three box lengths, and three different engine options too. Throw in no less than 10 trim levels, and you can confidently shop for a 1500 that suits your lifestyle. For solo enterprises and small teams, the regular cab in the Tradesman trim has seating capacity for three, two longer-length boxes, and a choice of five trims. If you'd like a pickup that covers family duties too, the crew cab configurations have seating for six, plenty of storage options for schoolbooks and bags, and rear-row LATCH restraints.
4. Detailed craftsmanship
If you love deluxe interiors, then the high-end 1500 trims have some beautifully crafted finishing touches, with stunning natural materials and unique design-led features. If you want your daily commute to feel extra special, the Rebel, Laramie Longhorn®, and Limited trims are the ones to watch out for. The Rebel trim has twin-tone red and black seats with a unique embossed tread pattern, while the Longhorn and Limited trim interiors feature leather-trimmed front seats, and European wood accents.
5. Active-level air suspension system
For drivers that might be new to towing, the 2017 RAM 1500 has the available Active-Level ™ Four-Corner Air Suspension System—and it's designed to make trailering as easy as possible (imagine that!). For anyone hooking up and hauling, it's all about successful balance and control. The Air Suspension system helpfully counteracts the weight of your trailer or box load and maintains an even and constant rake throughout the length of the vehicle and trailer. Confident trailering can lead to longer trips away, and more capacity for your favorite things, which seems like a good thing.
Similar vehicles
If you're interested in the 2017 Ram 1500, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.
With six trim levels and some impressive towing capacity numbers, the 2017–2019 Ford F-150 is a worthy option for consideration. Seating three in its Regular Cab and up to six in the two-row SuperCrew or SuperCab versions, the 2017–2019 F-150 can serve as a daily vehicle for families and work teams. For heavy-duty jobs, the 2019 F-150 with the 3.5L engine and RWD can tow an estimated 13,200 lbs, when properly equipped.
Standard features of the 2017–2019 Ford F-150 base trim include:
Rearview camera
Cloth upholstery
4.2-inch central display screen
A stylish full-size truck with attention to detail, the 2017–2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is an impressive choice for town and country lifestyles. For 2017–2018 models, shoppers can choose from three cab sizes, three engine options, and three box lengths, depending on which of the eight trims takes your fancy.
If your hard work is paying off, but you don't want to overindulge, treat yourself to the 2017–2018 Silverado WT with the optional upgraded infotainment system. This base trim model's upgrade package has features that level up your daily grind; including a seven-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, and Bluetooth capability.
The 2017–2018 Chevrolet Silverado mid-range LT trim has these standard features, and more:
Rearview camera
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Teen Driver safety system
With a supersized grille and athletic stance as standard, this brawny, working truck's trim levels can still impress on family days and date nights. The 2017–2018 Sierra has three engine options, and a mix of configurations from its three cab sizes, and box lengths.
The 2017–2018 Sierra Denali is the range-topping trim that's packed with appealing features. A huge center console can handle oversize bottles, lunch packs, and all the paperwork you need for your daily jobs. Chunky switches mean your gloves can stay on, while the sunroof and seven-speaker Bose® audio system will keep you smiling on bright and frosty morning drives.
Standard features of the 2017–2018 GMC Sierra 1500 base trim include:
17-inch steel wheels
USB port
Teen driver safety system
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Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
4.4 out of 5
34 customer reviews| 5 Stars | 25 |
|---|---|
| 4 Stars | 4 |
| 3 Stars | 1 |
| 2 Stars | 2 |
| 1 Star | 2 |
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 1500Ram 1500 features and specs
Curious how Ram 1500 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities
Bighorn 2WD 2D Regular Cab
Standard Features
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Bluetooth Technology
- Cloth Seats
- Cruise Control
- Heated Mirrors
- Overhead Airbags
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear View Camera
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Side Airbags
- Tow Hitch
- Traction Control
- Turbo Diesel Engine
- Alpine Sound System
- Bed Cover
- Bed Liner
- CD Audio
- Front Seat Heaters
- Heated Mirrors
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Long Bed
- Navigation System
- Remote Start
- Running Boards
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
3.0L
Horsepower
240
Torque (ft-lbs)
420
Engine type
Turbo Diesel
Fuel capacity
32
Wheelbase
140"
Overall length
231"
Width
79.4"
Height
74.4"
Leg room
F 41"
Head room
F 39.9"
Front tires
P275/60SR20
Rear tires
P275/60SR20
Seating capacity
3
Max towing capacity
481/4810 lbs.
Transmission
Automatic
2017 Ram 1500 FAQ
Yes, from the Big Horn trim upwards.
It sure can. With a maximum towing capacity estimated at 10,620 lbs with the 5.7L V8 when properly equipped, towing another vehicle is not a problem for the RAM 1500. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
It has a standard 26-gallon tank.
The Crew Cab comes with either a five-foot seven-inch box or a six-foot four-inch box.
More about the 2017 Ram 1500
Color options
Exterior colors:
Black Forest Green Pearl
Blue Streak Pearl
Bright Silver Metallic
Bright White
Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl
Delmonico Red Pearl
Flame Red
Granite Crystal Metallic
Luxury Brown Pearl
Maximum Steel Metallic
Pearl White
True Blue Pearl
Interior colors:
Black
Canyon Brown
Cattle Tan
Diesel Gray
Light Frost Beige
Radar Red and Black
Interior details
Available as a two-door, three-passenger pickup, or a four-door with seating for six, the 2017 RAM 1500 is comfortable and assured for all passengers. The front seats have generous legroom (41 inches), great visibility, and convenient cup holders. Quad and Crew Cabs also offer roomy rear seats (34.7 and 40.3 inches of legroom respectively) that can fold away for more interior cargo space if required.
There are further comfort options available, including power lumbar support (standard from Rebel trim) and heated seat functionality.
Child seat details
The 2017 RAM 1500 Regular Cab (three-seater) has two upper tether LATCH restraints. Quad and Crew Cab configurations have two full sets of LATCH restraints (upper tether and lower anchors) in the second-row outboard seats.
The manufacturer recommends that owners should not install a rear-facing car seat that has rear leg support in the 2017 RAM 1500.
Performance
With three engine options to choose from, the 2017 RAM 1500 can provide several performance benefits. The standard 3.6L engine achieves 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough to serve up good towing capacity; an estimated 7,510 lbs when properly equipped.
The 3.0L turbocharged EcoDiesel engine is an all-rounder when it comes to towing capability and fuel economy. It can achieve an estimated maximum towing capacity of 9,210 lbs when properly equipped, and an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined when driven on the 2WD platform.
,All 2017 models feature a smooth-changing eight-speed automatic transmission and the choice of standard 2WD or available 4WD.
Emissions
According to EPA estimates, the 2017 RAM 1500 has these tailpipe greenhouse gas emission figures:
The 2017 RAM 1500 with 2WD, 3.6L engine, and fueled by regular gasoline, has tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions of 450 grams per mile.
The 2017 RAM 1500 with 2WD, 3.6L engine, and fueled by E85, has tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions of 455 grams per mile.
The 2017 RAM 1500 with 4WD, 3.6L engine, and fueled by regular gasoline, has tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions of 475 grams per mile.
The 2017 RAM 1500 with 4WD, 3.6L engine, and fueled by E85, has tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions of 482 grams per mile.
The 2017 RAM 1500 with 2WD, and 5.7L engine, has tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions of 512 grams per mile.
The 2017 RAM 1500 with 4WD, and 5.7L engine, has tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions of 527 grams per mile.
The 2017 RAM 1500 with 2WD, and 3.0L turbodiesel engine, has tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions of 448 grams per mile.
The 2017 RAM 1500 with 4WD, and 3.0L turbodiesel engine, has tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions of 465 grams per mile.
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