First Drive: 2009 Dodge Ram - MotorTrend Magazine
The new Ram is not an all-new truck. The forward third of the frame has similar architecture but more high-strength steel for weight reduction, and current front suspension geometry gets aluminum uppers and knuckles that take 10 lb off each front corner. corporate rear axle and 215 mm front keep the same differentials, but rear axle tubes are upgraded to 6. 5mm wall thickness. Packaging allows three different exhaust systems among the two V-8 engines, and fuel capacity in the optional larger tank is now 32 gal, a loss of 2 gal of space. Variable cam timing has been added to the nose of the Hemi, as have a two-stage intake, almost a point in compression, less-restrictive ports and plumbing, and a wider operating range for the MDS. Peak power is up by 45 hp and torque by 32 lb-ft, but the intake and cam timing add 400 rpm to the spread between peaks. The EPA's testing may show the same fuel-economy numbers for the 4. 7 and 5. 7, but trust us, you won't use the Hemi's extra 80 horses and 77 lb-ft for free. Both the two-mode hybrid-likely only available in the Quad or Crew Cab since the battery pack goes under the rear seat-and a diesel model are well along in development but no one's saying if the truck will use a Cummins V-6, V-8, or. Source: www.motortrend.com
