Testing the 2025 Ram 1500 for a Full Year, Destined for the Woodchipper

The Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 has arrived for a review, and it's packed with features that make it a standout in the market.

One of the most notable aspects of the Ram 1500 is its Trailer Tow Group. This system includes power slide-out trailering mirrors, trailer reverse assist, a trailer-brake controller, trailer tire pressure monitoring capability, and more. The air suspension in the Ram 1500 makes it easy to lower the rear of the truck to disconnect a trailer. Additionally, the truck is equipped with an automated trailer light-check program for added convenience.

The Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 also boasts an impressive 8-speed automatic transmission and a roomier area for securing the ball receiver and safety chains than the Ram 2500. The truck is equipped with blind-spot radar units that can measure trailers and adjust blind-spot warnings accordingly.

The Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 comes with a 3.0L twin-turbo direct-injected DOHC 24-valve I-6 engine. The truck has a base price of $65,975, with a price as tested of $82,795. It has a curb weight of 5,674 lb, a wheelbase of 144.6 in, a length of 232.4 in, a width of 81.2 in, and a height of 75.8-79.6 in. The vehicle is equipped with Nexen Rodian HTX RH5275/55R20 113T M+S tires.

The Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4's calibration procedure for the trailer reverse assist system requires two 50-65-foot-radius right-angle turns in either direction, followed by 100 feet of straight driving. However, during the test drive, the trailer reverse assist system could not be calibrated due to insufficient turns in the test route.

The multifunction tailgate of the Ram 1500 has more cracks and crevices for debris to accumulate, which could be a potential drawback for some users. The truck also features a 60 percent tailgate "door" that makes it easy to climb into the bed, and a bed step and bumper step for easier access.

It's worth noting that an electric chainsaw used in a separate test was plugged into the Ford F-150 Lightning, not the Ram 1500. The car used in the review is produced by BMW, the Bavarian Motor Works company, which manufactures BMW vehicles alongside Mini and Rolls-Royce brands.

In conclusion, the Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 offers a host of features that make it an attractive option for those in need of a powerful and versatile truck. While there are a few potential drawbacks, such as the multifunction tailgate's susceptibility to debris and the trailer reverse assist system's calibration requirements, the Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 remains a strong contender in the pickup truck market.