2018 Ram 1500

Ram nailed it when it introduced this generation Ram 1500 in 2009, and continual improvements mean that it's right at the top of the pile among 2018 tough full-size light-duty pickups. It drives with an uncommon sophistication that's due to the fitting of coil springs at the rear, which settle down the traditionally fidgety ride of pickup trucks. There's a slight trade-off—the Ram 1500 doesn't have quite the towing capacity of leading rivals—but, really, if you need more towing ability than this, you'll be better served by a heavy-duty truck. Model choices are extensive, with rear- and four-wheel drive, four cargo bed lengths, three cabs that can seat from three to six people, and a choice of three engines.

All Ram 1500s come standard with an automatic transmission. The base 3.6-liter V6 is powerful and smooth enough for most buyers, but if you need a bit more power for towing, there's a V6 turbodiesel choice or a 5.7-liter V8 above that. Trim choices range from an entry-level model for those wanting a working truck, right up to fully loaded luxury levels of equipment. The Ram 1500 reveals its age, though, in its lack of sophisticated driver aids. That the 2018 model ends this generation of the Ram 1500 as one of the top light-duty pickups means you should still consider it if you want a well-rounded, capable truck.