The Ram 1500 was all-new in 2019, as was the Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra. It’s rare to have two separate truck manufacturers with new pickups released at the same time. But now the 2020 versions have had a year to work out any kinks, and they’re coming off of two-year leases. So how is it as a used truck? We looked at reviews from Consumer Reports, Cars.com, and Edmunds, three of the best consumer sites for vehicle purchases. Their findings, plus comments from owners, may or may not surprise you in your quest for a 2020 Ram 1500.
What did Consumer Reports say about the 2020 Ram?
“Compared to the competition, the Ram 1500 remains a kinder, gentler pickup truck in this crowded field. This generation drops pounds, improves fuel economy, adds more room for passengers, and raises the bar for interior packaging. In fact, the Ram can satisfy the needs of even the most demanding commercial driver while providing surprising levels of comfort and tranquility.
“Our typically equipped crew-cab truck got 17 mpg overall with the V8 engine and optional mild-hybrid battery system. That electric assist slightly augments the power and ensures a smooth stop/start functionality, without compromising accessories such as the air conditioning. As before, the 5.7-liter V8 paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission makes for a smooth, willing, and satisfying powertrain. We also tested the 3.0-liter V6 diesel, which got 23 mpg. It’s not as powerful as the V8 but its readily available power lends itself to hauling and towing. If properly equipped, the Ram can tow up to 12,750 pounds.”
What were the Ram 1500 highs and lows?
Highs
Ride
Quietness
Lows
High step-in
Owner satisfaction was four out of five points overall.
“Would owners buy another Ram 1500? It found that 73 out of 100 buyers would. Interestingly, the Ram 3500 came in first in this category.
“CR recommends for those considering a 4WD crew cab, get the Hemi V8 engine with the mild-hybrid option called ‘eTorque’, for its effortless power and contribution to fuel economy.
“For a more luxurious truck, choose the Laramie trim with the Level 1 equipment package. Not only does it bring forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and surround-view camera, but it’s also adorned with leather interior.”
What did Cars.com say about the 2020 Ram 1500?
It gave the Ram 1500 4.8 out of five stars.
The good:
- Interior quality regardless of trim level
- Stunning Limited interior
- Quiet, smooth ride
- Spacious cabin
- Impressive multimedia system
- Plenty of storage, inside and out
The bad:
- High-spec trims are heavy
- Not much payload left on luxury versions
- Expensive
- A big multimedia screen shows fingerprints
- Mild-hybrid operation not displayed
- Brake pedal feel
What it found in road tests
“No other pickup truck (or American luxury vehicle of any type) can hold a candle to the Ram’s interior, but 2020 GM pickups equipped with the 6.2-liter V-8 outgun the Ram’s 5.7-liter V-8 in power and payload abilities, while the lightweight Fords tend to handle better and have superior trailering aids.
“Storage inside the cabin is plentiful, with all sorts of cubbies and clever holders for things like cellphones. There are USB ports and 12-volt power points, too. The brilliantly simple cellphone holders in the lower center console allow you to keep a phone plugged into a cord and still arrange it so that it sits securely in the holder. Rear seats that fold up to allow large items to be loaded into the passenger compartment where they’re more secure than in an open bed. The RamBox bedside storage compartments were also improved for 2019. They have interior lights, 115-volt grounded outlets, and pressure-touch latches.”
What did the owners say?
“I owned either Ford or Chevy trucks in the past this is my first Ram. The Rebel trim package won me over with the panoramic sunroof 12-inch infotainment screen etc. it’s a beautiful truck with every option and well thought out design. Only had it a couple of months so far but I’m very pleased with the truck.”
“Bought this truck for overall look feel and performance. What attracted me first was the style of the Sport model then the interior grabbed my attention Dual-pane sunroof was amazing not to mention the 12-inch information screen. Inside the cab feels like no other truck I have owned lots of room for reclining seats in the back to make sure passengers could comfortably go on a long road trip. Fit and finish are great and the ride is like a luxury car so it checks off more than one box. Highly recommend purchase.”
“2020 Ram 1500 Limited w/ Ecodeisel. Leaking oil after only 8,000 miles. Surprising to see since I drive it like a 90-year-old. Blown seal in turbo, oil leaking down into intercooler which needs to be replaced. The high volume local Dealer doesn’t have parts and won’t provide a loaner car. All around Ram’s got a ‘quality’ operation.”
How did Edmunds rate the 2020 Ram 1500?
Overall, Edmunds gave it a rating of 8.4 out of 10
Pros
- Strong diesel V6 tow ratings now rival those of the V8
- The unique suspension delivers unequaled ride smoothness and control
- The cabin is roomy, quiet and laden with useful storage and tech features
- Off-road-focused Rebel delivers real capability and a unique look
Cons
- Common driver-assist features are limited to higher trims
“Ram redesigned its 1500 truck last year, and it continues to be our top-rated truck. All Ram 1500 trims come with excellent driving dynamics, generously appointed interiors, and a unique rear suspension for the class. With it, the Ram glides past competitors with a ride quality more commonly associated with cars. Truck duties are not a problem either — the Ram 1500 offers comparable maximum ratings for both towing and payload capacity.
“The Ram 1500 offers uncommonly smooth driving manners because of its distinct rear suspension design. You also get a unique upscale interior highlighted by the optional 12-inch infotainment display. The V6 and V8 engines are both solid choices, but the reintroduced second-generation EcoDiesel V6 has even more going for it.”
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