2020 Ram 1500 Classic | Consumer Guide Auto

2020 Ram 1500 Classic

Pros: 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 was redesigned last year (see separate review), but the old model continues as the 2020 Ram 1500 Classic. For 2020, the 1500 Classis is pared down to three trim levels: Tradesman, Express, and Warlock. 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. The 1500 Classic is less expensive than similar models of the redesigned 1500. Plus, 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.

The Facts

Class	Large Pickup Truck
Body Style(s)	regular cab, extended cab, crew cab
Passenger Count	3-6
Drive Wheels	rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive
Manufacturer	Ram
Nation of Manufacture	USA, Mexico
Base Prices	(only select models listed) Tradesman Reg. Cab, 6.4-ft bed: $29,895 Express Reg. Cab, 6.4-ft bed: $31,395 Tradesman Quad Cab, 6.4-ft bed: $33,895 4WD Express Quad Cab, 6.4-ft bed: $39,500 4WD Warlock Quad Cab, 6.4-ft bed: $41,440 4WD Tradesman Crew Cab, 6.4-ft bed: $40,585 Warlock Crew Cab, 5.7-ft bed: $40,490 4WD Warlock Crew Cab, 5.7-ft bed: $44,090