November 2008, Work Truck - Feature
Dodge Debuts First-Ever Ram Crew Cab
By Cindy Brauer
With an aggressive grille canted forward suggesting the "ready to charge" attitude of its namesake, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram is ready to enter the Crew Cab market, according to the truck’s designers.
"Crew-size cabs are the fastest-growing part of the truck segment, accounting for nearly 50 percent of the market," according to Dodge.
While providing plenty of improvements to entice consumers, including a significantly upgraded interior, the 2009 Ram offers all-new features to serve workhorse applications in commercial fleets.
Three Cab Versions Offered
Capable of handling a payload of up to 1,850 lbs. and towing up to 9,100 lbs., the 2009 Ram is available in three cab configurations: Regular, Quad, and first-ever Crew Cab, accommodating up to six adults easily. All versions are garageable.
Powertrain options include a new 5.7L HEMI V-8 engine, which Dodge says achieves an estimated 4-percent improvement in fuel economy and best-in-class 390 horsepower and 407 ft.-lbs. of torque. An available 4.7L V-8 earns up to 5 percent fuel economy improvement and is E-85 compatible.
Standard on the 2WD Regular and Quad Cab models is the 3.7L V-6, generating 215 hp and 235 ft.-lbs. of torque.
An all-new coil spring, five-link suspension fitted to the solid rear axle provides improved ride and handling, unexpected in a pickup, says Dodge.
Achieving best-in-class aerodynamics — and its impact on fuel efficiency — played a primary role in the 2009 Ram redesign. Drag has been reduced through a smoother, tighter body design, incorporating changes in doors, windshield, wheel openings, side windows and mirrors, and front-end grille and hood.
Storage Capacity Improved
Storage capability has also been enhanced in the 2009 Ram, which offers nearly twice the storage locations (42) as the previous model. In addition to new, segment-first store-in-the floor storage bins, the Crew Cab model features the available RamBox cargo management system. The new Ram Box is an innovative, weather-proof, lockable, illuminated, and drainable storage compartments integrated into both fender sides for easy access and convenience.
Cargo beds in Ram models equipped with RamBox are 49 inches wide, allowing a 4-foot by 8-foot sheet of building materials to lie flat with the tailgate down.
The RamBox system also includes a bed divider/2-foot bed extender for over-size loads and a rail system with sliding, adjustable tie-down cleats. The Ram’s tailgate features a standard assist capability to facilitate raising and closing.
Safety Engineered in Design
The 2009 Dodge Ram offers 35 safety and security features, including new standard four-wheel anti-lock brake system and electronic stability program with hill start assist and trailer sway control. Among other features are advanced multistage front driver and passenger airbags, supplemental side curtain airbags, and available rear park assist system.
The Dodge Ram is expected to offer a light-duty diesel model after 2009 and a two-mode hybrid powertrain in the 2010-MY. WT