2020 Ram 1500 and Heavy Duty Get a Host of Updates
Competition is so fierce in the full-size pickup segment that manufacturers can no longer afford to stay put for just one model year.
For example, even though the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra were completely redesigned a year ago, General Motors wasted no time in announcing changes and updates for 2020—and quite important ones, too.
Well, FCA is doing the same with both the Ram 1500 and Ram Heavy Duty.
2020 Ram 1500
We’ve already told you about the addition of the all-new, third-generation 3.0-litre EcoDiesel V6, which delivers a class-leading 480 pound-feet of torque and allows a towing capacity of 12,560 pounds. This engine is now available in the 2020 Ram Rebel for superior off-road capability.
Speaking of the Rebel, the Black Appearance Group returns with Diamond Black Crystal Pearl Coat paint, black 18-inch wheels, front spoiler, skid plate, badging, tow hooks and exhaust. LED headlamps with black bezels and a theme-matched all-black interior are standard.
This model also offers new exterior graphic options and a new Safety Group that includes adaptive cruise control with stop, go and hold, forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning-plus and automatic high-beam headlamps.
For Ram 1500 owners who want a bit more style, there’s a new Night Edition (available on Laramie) with a monochromatic look enhanced by black grille, grille surround, badging, 22-inch wheels and exhaust tips. The headlamps and taillights feature dark bezels.
In Longhorn trim, 22-inch two-tone wheels are now available.
Later in the model year, three new exterior colours will be added (Hydro Blue, Walnut Brown and Olive Green) along with eTorque badging on the hood. The Comfort Package for Sport and Rebel variants will include power tailgate release, wireless charging, rear heated seats and a 12-way power driver’s seat with memory settings.
2020 Ram Heavy Duty
Of course, the Ram 2500 and 3500 return with the available Cummins turbo-diesel engine that produces up to 1,000 pound-feet of torque—yet is trumped by GM’s own diesel powerhouse in the towing department (35,100 pounds vs. 35,500 pounds).
Lane keep assist and adaptive steering are now available on all trim levels, while blind-spot monitoring (including easy-to-use trailer coverage) is also available. Trailer tire pressure monitoring becomes an option on all Ram Heavy Duty pickups, and there’s an auxiliary camera system that supports two different cameras.
As for styling, Olive Green and Hydro Blue are added to the selection of exterior colours, while black wheels are now available on the Ram 2500 Power Wagon.
The 2020 Ram 1500 and Ram Heavy Duty models will go on sale this fall. Prices have yet to be announced.