AUBURN HILLS, MI – The new 2013 Ram 1500 has been named The Detroit Free Press Truck of the Year.

“The new Ram 1500 takes a massive step forward in technology and fuel economy, representing the direction the Ram Truck Brand is heading with all its models,” said Fred Diaz, president and CEO Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico, Chrysler Group LLC. “We are honored to have an endorsement from The Detroit Free Press and [writer] Mark Phelan. This award will be well-received by our dealers and customers, reiterating the fact that Ram has the best truck on the market.”

For 2013, the new Ram 1500 offers buyers best-in-class 25 mpg fuel efficiency, new technology, and new features without sacrificing capability, according to the automaker. The Ram 1500 comes equipped with a choice of engines, including a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine or the award-winning Pentastar V-6.

The 2013 Ram 1500 features first-in-segment technologies: 8-speed automatic transmission, stop-start system, thermal management system, pulse-width modulation and active aerodynamics, including grille shutters and active air suspension, according to the company. The 2013 Ram 1500 is available in nine trim levels and starts at $23,585 including $995 destination charge.

In November, Automotive Fleet, the sister publication of Work Truck, named the Ram 1500 its Fleet Truck of the Year.