2014 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel

Traditionally, a full-size pickup with a small engine just didn’t cut it for most buyers. But, last year, RAM pretty much dispelled that notion with its Pentastar V-6 powered 1500. Now for 2014, they’re adding a V-6 diesel to the mix.

Already offered in the Jeep Grand Cherokee, this 3.0 liter turbodiesel V-6 EcoDiesel is rated at 240 horsepower. But, it’s the over 400 pound feet of torque that allows for a 9,2-hundred pound tow capacity. Mated to a ZF 8-speed automatic, mileage ratings should come close to matching the 28 MPG Highway of the diesel Jeep.

Greg: Back in the late 80s, Dodge offered a 5.9 liter Cummins Diesel in the RAM, that offered 400 lb-ft of torque. Fast forward to 2013; I’m driving a 3.0 liter V-6 EcoDiesel that has 420 lb-ft of torque. And it’s matched with an 8 speed transmission. And I gotta say, it’s a very capable pairing, and very efficient pairing…really respect the engineering that went into it.

John Davis: Other more minor additions for 2014 include a new front parking assist system.

On sale now, the EcoDiesel is only available on some RAM 1500s, with a price premium of $3-5,000 depending on model.