Road Test: 2018 Ram 1500 SLT Quad Cab

Story by Jordan Allan, photos courtesy of FCA Canada

Specifications:

Price: $62,205 (as tested)

Engine: 5.7L HEMI pushrod 16-valve V8

Trans: 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic

Power: 395 hp@ 5,600 rpm

Torque: 410 lb-ft @ 3,950 rpm

Curb Weight: 5,098 lbs./ 2,312 kg

Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) 16.1/11.5

New for 2018: The Ram 1500 is relatively unchanged for 2018 as it prepares to make way for the all-new 2019 version. A couple of new trim levels were added, the 3.0L EcoDiesel engine option saw expanded capability and the infotainment system offers new functionality.

Segment Competitors: Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan

The Skinny: It had been a few years since I had the chance to get some serious time behind the wheel of a current-generation Ram 1500 with the 5.7L HEMI V8 and after having done that recently, I was immediately reminded of why it is my current favourite half-ton option out there. The HEMI engine provides a fun factor that isn’t duplicated by any other offerings and the overall drivability is second to none. The interior is well laid out with tons of storage space, and the overall look of the truck (when spec’d right) is easy to be a fan of.

Pros: Although it does sacrifice a little bit of your bed width, the RamBox storage compartment on either side provide a safe space to lock away things you don’t want to have sitting around in the cab. Also wanted to mention that I’m still a huge fan of the older style grille and tailgate, or in other words, those without the large RAM wording boldly featured.

Cons: The only thing I can’t wrap my head around is the dial gear selector.

The Verdict: Even though this generation of the Ram 1500 has been around for the better part of a decade, to me it still feels very modern and as I mentioned still drives the best of any of the other options out there. Given that the all-new 2019 Ram 1500 has been unveiled, this current 2018 version is on its way out but given how good of a truck it was, I wouldn’t suspect we will be seeing any less of them on our roads. If you like what Ram is all about but aren’t yet sold on the look of the new version, I would definitely recommend looking into the remaining 2018’s.