2021 Ram 1500 review

1. Powertrain options

The 2021 Ram 1500 offers a wide assortment of engine options, providing the power you need to tackle big jobs. The 3.6L Pentastar^® V6 (standard in Tradesman, Big Horn, and Rebel trims) and 5.7L HEMI V8 (available in all trims) include an eTorque mild-hybrid system, which optimizes shift changes for an extra boost of performance. You can also find 2021 Ram 1500s with the 5.7L Hemi V8 without the mild-hybrid system if you prefer a truck with a traditional powertrain (standard in Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited trims; available in all other trims). For a torque-rich engine that's also practical at the pumps, consider the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel (available on all trims). When equipped with rear-wheel drive and the eight-speed automatic transmission, the 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel returns an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined.

2. New TRX trim

For 2021, changes to the Ram 1500 include a new TRX trim, which redefines the boundaries of what a pickup can be. Powered by a 6.2L HEMI supercharged V8 with 702 hp and 650 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX is a high-performance truck that can go from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new). This model also includes a launch control with launch-assist system, which regulates engine RPM and monitors wheel slip feedback to achieve fast acceleration rates. You can off-road in the TRX, too, with the standard 2.5-inch Bilstein^® Black Hawk e2 adaptive performance shocks, which continuously adapt to varied terrain for optimal body control.

3. Strong towing abilities

If you're shopping for a pickup to help you tow with ease, the 2021 Ram 1500 will impress you with its pulling abilities and smart technologies. For heavy loads, consider the 2021 Ram 1500 with the 5.7L V8 HEMI with eTorque, which can tow an estimated 12,750 lbs. when properly equipped.

 Available power-fold tow mirrors provide great visibility, while the available surround-view monitor uses five cameras to help you align the truck to a trailer. On the road, the available blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-path detection scans blind-spot zones and automatically senses the length of the trailer for confident lane changes.

4. Comfortable cabin

The 2021 Ram 1500 has a roomy cabin with cavernous passenger space and functional cubby storage to keep belongings nearby. With room for five or six passengers, depending on the trim you choose, Crew Cab models boast 45.2 inches of rear-seat legroom and available reclining rear-seats for customized comfort on long trips. The available in-floor storage zone is also a great place to store tools or cargo out-of-view (Tradesman and Big Horn trims with Crew Cab only). You'll love how bright the cabin feels with the available dual-pane power-operated sunroof (standard on 2021 Ram 1500 Big Horn and higher trims with Crew Cab only), while leather seating surfaces with accent stitching add to the truck's luxurious atmosphere (standard on Laramie and higher trims).

5. Advanced technology

The 2021 Ram 1500 is a tech-rich truck, offering useful features for work or play. All models come standard with a ParkView rear backup camera to assist with tricky reverse moves, while Laramie and higher trims include a Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch display. The available head-up display (included in the Advanced Technology Group package for Big Horn and higher trims) lets you see stats, like turn-by-turn navigation, current speed, and incoming calls, without taking your eyes off the road. The 2021 Ram 1500 also features an available digital rearview mirror (included in the Advanced Technology Group package for Big Horn and higher trims) that improves driver rearward visibility by displaying real-time video from the rear-facing camera.