Motor Trend magazine calls the 2010 Dodge heavy duty trucks "the hardest working trucks in tow business." After a test drive of a Dodge 2500 Ram crew cab at Kile Dodge Chrysler Jeep in Cleveland, Tenn., we can see why the muscular new Dodges were named the magazine's 2010 trucks of the year.
Equipped with a 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel engine, our tester is capable of pulling more than 12,000 pounds, according to Kile sales representative Steve Liner. Used primarily as work trucks or mated to travel trailers, the Dodge trucks represent the leading wave of a new generation of American-made, heavy-duty vehicles. (Look for upgrades in the Ford and Chevrolet fleets later this year as well.)
DRIVING IMPRESSIONS: The Cummins diesel in the Ram 2500 is remarkably quiet, (no more shouting to place your order at the McDonald's drive through). For longevity, you can't beat a diesel, but for those who prefer gasoline engines a Hemi V- 8 is also available. Despite itsweight and girth, the 2500 crew cab is easy to drive. Equipped with four-wheel drive, our tester would be perfect for this winter's slippery road conditions. The Cummins-equipped trucks also come with a diesel exhaust break to help with the area's steep downhill grades.
COMFORT FEATURES: The interior is so comfortable that some people are buying the Dodge 2500 just for cruising, Mr. Liner says, never intending for their heavy-duty Rams to break a sweat. That's a shame, because the big Dodges seem to be aching to pull a load.
Our highly optioned tester included an Alpine stereo system, satellite radio and Blue Tooth cell phone compatibility. Outside the truck has plenty of bling, including handsome chrome side-steps and bed rails.
The back seat in the 2500 is enormous, with cubby-holes and storage area's seemingly tucked everywhere. Up front, the center console includes a storage area as voluminous as an airline carry-on bag.
BOTTOM LINE: The new Dodge heavy-duty trucks are equipped to work hard and play hard. There's something about a diesel that feels permanent, built to last. The price can climb north of $50,000 with lots of options, but if you're of a certain age, this is a vehicle that can become a lifelong companion.
MODEL TESTED: Dodge 2500 Ram SLT Crew Cab.
COLOR: Light Greystone Pearl.
ENGINE: 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel.
FUEL ECONOMY: 22 mpg highway, 15 mpg city.
BASE PRICE: $38,480.
PRICE AS TESTED: $53,785.
