BIG BILLY GOAT GRUFF
This article is from our archives and has not been updated and integrated with our "new" site yet... Even so, it's still awesome - so keep reading!
Published on Sat, Feb 7, 2009
By: The LACar Editorial Staff
© All photos by Harvey Schwartz
BIG BILLY GOAT GRUFF
The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram pickup truck is once again breaking away from the
competition with innovation that brings the Ram pickup truck to new, higher
levels of performance, comfort, convenience, versatility, high-technology and
safety not seen before in the segment.
Even with the 35 percent drop in sales for the segment, pickup trucks are a
large part of the automotive marketplace and will continue to be so with sales
around one-million units a year. Dodge has taken the bull by the horns and
completely changed the playing field with its all-new Ram.
All-new Ram innovations include the first-in-segment coil-spring, multi-link
rear suspension fitted to a solid axle providing ride and handling capabilities
like a sedan;
all-new bold, powerful, 'get-out-of-the-way' exterior styling with a new, more
aggressive 'grille-forward' design and first-in-segment chrome-tipped dual
exhaust styled dramatically into the rear bumper; best-in-class aerodynamics
with an estimated co-efficient of drag of 0.419; Ram's first-ever crew-size cab
giving Dodge an entry into the largest segment and fastest-growing (50 percent)
part of the market; new 5.7 liter HEMI V8 provides more horsepower-380-and
404lb.ft. of torque, with increased fuel economy (up to four percent); new
interiors with premium seating, soft-touch materials, redesigned controls, floor
console with shifter, and nearly double the storage options.
In addition, there are more than 35 new or improved features, including
industry-first RamBox cargo management system (crew-size cab) with a versatile,
weatherproof, lockable, illuminated and drainable storage bins built into the
bed rails, a pickup bed divider/2-foot bed extender, and a cargo rail system
with four sliding, adjustable cleats, with the RamBox holding up to 10-cases of
12 ounce beverages, or other gear for work or leisure; first-in-the segment
'store in the floor' storage bins, hidden under the rear 40/20/40 split folding
bench seat, with removable liners big enough for 10 more 12-ounce beverages and
ice; first-in-segment heated and ventilated front seats, rear heated seats, a
heated steering wheel is a first for any Chrysler vehicle; first-in-segment live
SIRIUS Backseat TV; first-in-segment surround-sound audio system; more than 30
safety features, including standard ABS and Electronic Stability Control with
Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control.
Driving the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram Crew Cab is a pleasure, with greater power
and the new rear suspension geometry, and more comfortable front seats with
added side bolstering. The redesigned interior is more ergonomic and versatile
with new storage options and convenience features. Dodge also tapped into the
high-tech realm with the latest in automotive communication and entertainment
systems.
The all-new look is more contemporary and aggressive, starting with a redesigned
aluminum hood with a large power bulge, and a forward-canted, cross-hair, chrome
grille that imparts a 'head down', ready to charge attitude. The new larger
headlamp clusters are integrated into the front of the fenders and sit behind
clear lenses. The front and rear chrome bumpers wrap around each body side to
give it a seamless look, and feature integral fog-lamps. In the rear the
taillight clusters are larger while the chrome bumper on HEMI-equipped models is
radiused over chrome dual exhaust tips spread at the sides. From the side is a
sleek silhouette of a sweptback windshield, aero-styled, power-remote, heated,
side-view mirrors, and side sills that are pulled down to cover the frame rails
for a more premium appearance. The fender wells are stuffed with optional 20X9
wheels wrapped with 275/60R20 radial tires, and available in three styles. The
front and rear Ram badges are larger and three-dimensional, rather than decals,
and are designed to stand out. There is nothing on the market that can overtake
the new bolder styling of the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500.
Among the numerous segment-exclusive features in the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram are
two that aren't readily visible, yet certainly help the new Ram stand out from
the competition. One is the new 5.7 liter HEMI V8 engine and the other is the
rear multi-link, coil spring suspension.
While the all-new engine maintains key architectural features that make 'HEMI'
synonymous with power, new key features are optimized to improve engine
breathing, while new technologies have been added to maximize and improve fuel
economy and refinement. These include variable valve timing (VVT), expanded
operating range of the Multiple Displacement System (MDS), increased compression
ratio, active intake manifold with long runners for low-end torque and short
runners for high-rpm power, improved cylinder head port flow efficiency and a
reduced-restriction exhaust and induction system. The result is improved idle
quality and overall refinement, more horsepower: 380 - up from 340 horsepower.
And 404 pound-feet of torque - up from 375. The new HEMI-equipped Dodge Ram R/T
regular cab 4X2 can accelerate to 60 mph from a standstill in just 6.1 seconds.
Also available is a 4.7 liter V8 that uses (like the HEMI) two spark plugs per
cylinder, and leverages increased compression ratio, improved cylinder head port
flow, and a new slant/squish combustion system designed to substantially
increase fuel economy, power and torque. It generates 310 horsepower and 330
pound-feet of torque. All 2009 Rams come standard with a 3.7 liter Magnum V6
engine, generating 210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque.
Mated to the new HEMI V8 is the smooth-shifting, 545RFE five-speed automatic
transmission. It is a fully electronically-controlled transmission containing
three planetary gear sets that provide a wide ratio capability for optimum
performance. It also offers a tow-haul mode that balances engine speed and load
conditions, which improves
performance and fuel economy, while reducing engine noise during towing or heavy
hauling. This transmission is optional on the 4.7 liter V8, which comes standard
with the 42RLE four-speed transmission. The 3.7 liter equipped Rams come
standard with a Getrag 238 manual transmission. The 42RLE transmission is
optional.
Two transfer cases are available on all 2009 Dodge Ram 4X4s, the NVG 243, which
enables part-time 4X4 drive operation with a two-speed gear system; and the NVG
246, which enables an on-demand 4X4 drive system, also with a two-speed gear
system. Both transfer cases are engaged with a dash-mounted switch, and both
feature 2HI, 4HI, 4LO plus a neutral position. Driveshafts are upgraded for
increased quality, durability and reliability. The new Ram's driveshafts now
incorporate 1350 series universal joints, two-piece thrust washers with
triple-lip seats, and improved journal cross strength.
The most important all-new item on the Ram is the industry-first multi-link coil
spring rear suspension geometry. Everyone said it couldn't be done but Dodge did
it and it is a pleasure when driving fast, slow, around curves, in slow city
traffic, and when traveling at high- speeds on the freeway. It provides improved
ride and handling characteristics with no loss of capability. A rear coil-spring
setup centralizes and absorbs bumps and impacts, while reducing the amount of
friction in the spring system unlike a leaf spring setup. It also weighs 40
pounds less than a leaf spring setup.
Up front is an independent setup with upper and aluminum lower 'A' arms,
coil-spring over twin-tube gas-charged shocks, and a thick stabilizer bar. The
all-new rear setup features 5-links, coil springs, twin-tube gas-charged shocks,
stabilizer bar and a solid axle. The rear shock absorbers are forward-facing and
positioned on the outside of the frame for enhanced damping. Shocks are tuned
for optimum balance in order to reduce ride harshness and provide more of an
absorbent feel. The feel from the cockpit is a more solid, planted feel
straight-ahead at speed, and solid tracking heading into and exiting corners.
The power-assisted rack & pinion steering is standard and gives a pretty good
feel for the road but it felt a little 'over-boosted' at speed on the freeway.
The HEMI model should get a 'performance' steering gear to give it more weight
at high-speeds. With 380 horsepower and 400+ pound-feet of torque, the Ram Crew
Cab 4X2 that I tested is very fast, with a very quick launch in first gear. More
efficiently putting the power to the ground is an optional helical-gear
limited-slip rear axle. The limited-slip function instantaneously divides torque
between the rear wheels in proportion to the traction available to each wheel.
It is, however, consistently smooth when turning corners because it responds
only to variations in traction.
The independent front and rear multi-link coil-spring suspensions provide
sport-sedan handling characteristics but doesn't give up anything in terms of
payload or trailer-towing capability. After all, coil-spring setups are commonly
used in heavy-duty applications including semi-trailers and railroad cars. The
new Ram is capable of handling a payload of 1,850 pounds and towing up to an
estimated 9,100 pounds.
A range of wheels is available among the various 2009 Dodge Ram models, from a
17X8 stamped steel standard wheel size on ST models, to 20X9 aluminum wheels
available on SLT, Sport and Laramie models. A full-size spare tire and wheel
assembly is standard on all Ram models.
Quickly and safely slowing the all-new Ram from speed are large, 4-wheel
power-assisted disc brakes, the largest standard sizes in the industry. Up front
are 13.2-inch vented rotors clamped with dual-piston calipers, while 13.8-inch
solid disc in the rear are clamped with single-piston calipers. Braking distance
and control is enhanced with standard ABS and an electronic stability program.
Keeping all of the new power and handling in harmony is a new, improved,
low-torsion frame design that contributes to stability and handling precision
while decreasing noise, vibration and harshness. Two frame lengths are
available: 120 and 140 inches.
Portions of the frame are hydroformed for dimensional accuracy and the side
rails are fully boxed. The front section frame section incorporates advanced,
high-strength steel that maintains overall strength and durability while saving
approximately 30 pounds.
The rear section of the new Ram's frame is all-new and supports the new
multi-link coil-spring suspension. Also new for 2009 are redesigned tow-hook
brackets (4X4 only).
Well, Dodge has done it again, innovating and modernizing the full-size pickup
truck that is fast, comfortable and exciting to drive, plus it can take care of
any of your cargo hauling or towing needs.
You'll be doing all of your driving behind the wheel of a dramatic, all-new
interior that is more comfortable, ergonomic and convenient than before. The
first thing you'll notice is a renewed emphasis on craftsmanship expressed in
premium interior appointments including six-ring instrument cluster, soft,
leather-trimmed seats with 10-way driver,
six-way passenger power adjusting seats, power lumbar adjustment and two-driver
memory setting, redesigned controls with chrome accents, and two-tone
upholstery. An automatic transmission floor shifter, incorporated into a
configurable center console is optional for the first time in a Ram. All 2009
Dodge Ram interiors are significantly upgraded with 'soft-touch' materials that
feature industry-first two-tone technology and premium fit and finish.
Full-width contrasting stitching is offered on soft-touch instrument panels for
Sport and Laramie models.
Other premium amenities include first-in-segment heated and cooled front seats,
optional rear heated seats, first-for-Dodge heated steering wheel, one-touch
up/down front windows, variable intermittent windshield wipers/washers,
automatic-on headlamps, and dual-zone automatic climate control. There are grab
handles at each wide-opening door for easy entry and exit, a beefy and tilting
leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear power sliding window, 115-volt auxiliary
power outlet, traveler mini trip computer, temperature and compass readouts,
overhead console with dual map lamps and sunglass holder. Convenient driving
features include remote starting system, cruise-control, remote keyless entry,
and power down locks. Like I said earlier, you would think that you are riding
in a large sedan, but this Ram has lots of interior storage starting with the
segment-first innovation utilizing a pair of 'store in the floor' bins with
removable liners. There are many other convenient storage locations throughout
including a large upper and lower glove box, map pockets in door panels along
with deep storage slots, and a two-tiered center storage bin that can easily
hold a portable computer and power it up with a 12-volt power plug inside. The
rear seating area has air-ducts located on the floor at the end of each front
seat bottom, and two air-ducts behind the center console.
The technically sophisticated, yet simple-to-navigate electronic and
infotainment choices include MyGIG Multimedia infotainment System with
30-gigabyte hard drive, U-connect phone and U-connect tunes, navigation system,
and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with wireless headphone and wireless
remote available only in the Quad Cab and Crew Cab models. Also available is
first-in-segment live SIRIUS Backseat TV and segment-first surround-sound audio
from Alpine with 9-speakers and rear under-seat mounted subwoofer. Also optional
is the one-touch power sliding sunroof.
On the safety and security front, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram offers more than 30
active and passive safety features including standard front and rear
side-curtain airbags, front supplemental airbags, enhanced accident response
system, alarm system with horn warning, knee bolsters, puddle lamps under each
sideview mirror and door bottom, seat-belt pre-tensioners up front, BeltAlert
system, adjustable pedals, ParkSense Rear Park Assist and ParkView Rear Back-up
Camera.
The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram has again broken through barriers that were said to
be impossible in a powerful, rugged, full-size pickup truck than looks like a
sleek big rig yet drives like a premium full-size sedan with a large cargo box
in the rear. I was greatly impressed with what Dodge has done to the all-new
Ram. If a pickup truck is in your future, you will be impressed as well when you
take it on a test drive.
© Words and pictures by Harvey Schwartz
For more information about Dodge products, go to
www.dodge.com
More photos from Harvey Schwartz can be found at
www.autofotos.comÂ
SUMMARY JUDGMENT
Recession notwithstanding, Dodge has a sure-fire best seller in the form of the
Ram.
SPECIFICATIONS
Name:
2009 Dodge Ram Crew 1500 Laramie
Price:
$40,020.00/$45,300.00 as tested
EPA mileage:
14 mpg/city, 20 mpg/highway
Engine:
5.7 liter HEMI MDS VCT Engine
Horsepower:
380 hp at 5,600 rpm
Torque:
404 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm
Drive configuration:
Front engine/rear wheel drive or AWD
Transmission:
6-speed automatic/6-speed manual
Front suspension:
Independent, upper aluminum & lower aluminum A arms, coil springs over twin-tube
shocks, stabilizer bar
Rear suspension:
5-links, coil springs, stabilizer bar, twin-tube shocks, solid axle
Wheels/tires:
20X9in. aluminum wheels/275/60R20in. all-season radial tires as tested
Brakes:
Front: 13.2 in. vented discs, dual-piston calipers
Rear: 13.8 in. vented discs, single-piston calipers
Total length:
229 in.
Total width:
79.4in.
Total height:
75.1 in.
Curb weight:
Approximately 5,300 lbs./4X2, 5,350 lbs. 4X4
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