2019 Ram 1500 Classic

Pros: Available turbodiesel V6 engine; excellent 8-speed transmission; impressive ride, handling, and quietness for a large pickup truck

Cons: Lacks new features and improvements of redesigned Ram 1500; fuel economy with 5.7-liter Hemi V8; high step-in complicates entry and exit

CG Says: The Ram 1500 is redesigned for 2019 (see separate review), but the old model continues as the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic. The Classic is offered in four trim levels: Tradesman, Express, Big Horn/Lone Star, and SSV (Special Services Vehicle). The upper trim levels are not carried over for Classic. Ram is a large pickup truck available in regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab. When Chrysler redesigned the Ram 1500 back in 2009, the company transformed its big rig from an also-ran to class leading. A steady stream of improvements in subsequent years has kept this pickup feeling fresh. The available Hemi V8 engine is potent, but the entry 3.6-liter V6 is no slouch either. The latter motor also delivers excellent fuel economy for a large pickup, and the optional turbodiesel V6 (available midyear) has even better efficiency. The 1500 Classic is less expensive than similar models of the redesigned 1500. Plus, initially a regular cab isn’t available in the new series, but it is offered in the Classic range. Although lacking the latest improvements and features of the new 1500, the 1500 Classic is still a strong contender in the full-size truck market, plus it’s an economical choice.