Overview:
Ok folks, I gotta tell you this series on pickup trucks has been a lot of fun and this 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 4X4 Laramie was a great workhorse around the old rancho.
The good news about doing a series is that you get to see all of the competition in a short period of time. But things can begin to run together as you try to differentiate between each. I know you’re going to have to test drive the models you lean toward, so be sure to take good notes, because there will be little that separates them.
The Dodge 1500 test vehicle I drove was equipped with a Navigational system and in my opinion it is so small as to make it unusable. I was frustrated by it because I refused to spend the time to set it before I hit the road. Perhaps this is one of those little things that would separate me from buying that option. I would suggest the manufacturers consider using a Nav system that can be set by the passenger while the car is in motion. As to the size, a younger pair of eyes may be able to tolerate the small screen.
Handling & Performance:
Heavier suspension on this 1500, versus the Dakota, makes the ride a little rougher without a load. But it is faster, sits higher but also sucks up more gas by 20% with a V8 versus the V6. I like the power but I don’t like filling up so often.
Styling:
No question all Dodge models are related. As siblings they are stair stepped big, bigger, biggest.
Fit and Finish:
You won’t find a great deal of difference in how well they fit together, and as mentioned before, trucks aren’t expected to be so well appointed anyway.
Cost:
Dodge tends to be at the upper end of the cost curve of the competition.
Consumer Recommendation:
There isn’t all that many to test-drive in this price range and class. It is in the middle of size and ability. You should consider your need for 4-wheel drive. If there isn’t an obvious need for the Nav system you’ll save money here. With gas prices escalating, you may be able to sacrifice tire-burning power for better gas performance.
The Competition:
Dodge Ram 1500 $20-50,000, GMC Sierra 1500 $18-42,000, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 $18-39,000, Ford F150 $20-36,000, Toyota Tundra $16-33,000, Nissan Titan $23-36,000.
Good News:
Powerful options for the performance needy buyer.
Bad News:
Pricey, and with the Magnum fuel economy is even worse.
Standard Equipment:
4.7 liter 235 hp V8 engine, 5-speed auto trans, dual front airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes, manual shift on the fly transfer case, power st4eering, maintenance free battery, tow wiring harness with 4-pin connector, 35 gallon fuel tank, air conditioning, tilt column, cruise control, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, overhead console with trip computer, stereo with CD player 40/20/40 bench seat, rear folding seat with under seat storage.
Options: Laramie package – power front seats, visor lighted vanity mirrors, dome light and under hood light. All season tires, leather, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, power pedals, fog lights, stereo with in dash 6-disc CD player with 7 speakers, tow upgrade with 750 amp battery, class IV hitch with 7 pin wiring harness, heated front seats, full time shift on the fly transfer case, anti-spin differential, 5.7 liter Hemi Magnum V8 engine, fold away power trailer tow mirrors, GPS navigation upgrade with stereo.
Gas Stats:
13 City and 17 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $30,390/ with options $39,625.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2005 – An Automotive Love Affair
