2009 Dodge Ram has power and street cred

Photo by Carlton Signature Publishing: 2009 Dodge Ram Sport

From the start you can look at the sporty Dodge Ram 1500 Sport and tell that it isn't your typical heavy duty truck. For one, it's as stylish and sporty as any thoroughbred coupe. Tapered lines, sculpted body panels, its highbeltline and lowered stance make for a sinister profile.

Points for showmanship, it not only shoots for best-in-class aerodynamics but knocks a few out of Land Shark Stadium with several take-notice features. The integrated dual exhaust, bold hood bulge, 20-inch chrome clad wheels and optional wraparound full chrome bumpers are stunning. To top it all off you're completely drawn in by an aggressive forward-leaning grille with signature crosshairs and ram head! It's bananas!

Ram's interior is stylish as well as functional

All the while, the sheer power beneath its hood-work keeps it darting through traffic. The growl of the engine is only matched by its responsive and capable handling.
In case you hadn't any clue a 5.7L Hemi V8 with Multi Displacement System provides a substantial amount of horsepower and bucket loads of torque. The engine features several upgrades that push it to the front of the pack and deliver better freeway merging acceleration - distinguishing it as a leader in its segment.

Multi-Displacement System (MDS) seamlessly deactivates half of the engine's cylinders in fuel saver mode when less power is needed. There's also variable cam timing (VVT) that boosts torque and efficiency. Stronger hemispherical cylinder heads have been formulated to produce more power, while a new short runner valve active intake manifold increases fuel efficiency.

Overall you get better power to efficiency ratio in this latest version of Ram trucks. Also available are a 3.7 V6 and 4.7V8 with comparable transmission work.

Ram's low profile/ ornamental badging

It's interior has a few new features as well. Slide into the high bolstered, broad shouldered driver's seat and shut the triple-sealed door. Now take a moment to let it all sink in. It's remarkable fit and finish runs the gambit of chrome accented - six-ring instrumentation to available heated/ventilated leather seating and available heated rear seats. Why there are even ergonomic storage compartments and a new six-passenger crew cab.

On The Drive
Standard 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 390 hp1097
Standard integrated dual exhaust with aggressive
20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels
High shoulder sport bucket seats
Leather wrapped steering wheel
Quad headlamps
Monochromatic paint with body-color grille and front fascia
Fog lamps
115-volt power inverter

MSRP (as tested)
$39,205

Best Feature
Redesigned look and angled front grille

Could Use
Standard side step (only available as an option)