2025 RAM 1500: test drive and review
The new 2025 RAM 1500 has finally arrived at the dealership, and we couldn't wait to try it out! The new model year brings a wave of change to the lineup, notably with the discontinuation of the legendary HEMI V8 in favor of a more modern engine and the addition of a new luxury trim. But before we dive into the test drive, let's take a quick overview of the trims available to us!
A diverse lineup
The 2025 lineup still revolves around several configurations and trims, each with its own identity. There's the hardworking Tradesman, followed by the Big Horn, which now offers new Value packages at advantageous prices.
Next come the Sport and the tireless Rebel, followed by the luxurious Laramie, Limited, and Longhorn. But it's the all-new Tungsten trim that attracts our attention today. Positioned as the most luxurious RAM trim ever produced, it promises a unique experience. Eager to discover it, we chose this trim for our test drive.
First impression: imposing yet refined
Every RAM truck in inventory exudes a remarkable presence with a robust construction, an imposing grille, and a modern design. The LED lighting completes the package, and we were charmed by the Tungsten, which plays an animation and is complemented by superior quality fog lights.
This model is equipped with 22-inch wheels and showcases its luxurious side with several chrome touches, particularly on the grille, bumpers, and door handles.
The cabin: a new definition of luxury
Upon opening the door, we are immediately absorbed by all the attention to details, as well as the harmony in this sumptuous decor. The leather seats welcome us, and we easily adjust our position thanks to 24 power settings, including lumbar support.
A quick look to the rear reveals the seats are now reclining, heated, and ventilated. As always, legroom is generous with RAM!
Before departing, we place our phones on the dual wireless charging pad. It is a good opportunity to charge our batteries during the ride! Then, we test the infotainment system features displayed on the large 14.5-inch screen. The Uconnect system is intuitive, allowing us to connect easily, activate navigation, and select our music. The Klipsch audio system with 23 speakers fills the cabin with rich and immersive sound. Let's hit the road!
On the road: the Hurricane revolution
The time has come to start the new 3.0-liter turbocharged 6-cylinder Hurricane engine. In our test trim, the high-output version is at work, delivering an impressive 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque.
Note that you will also find this engine in the Limited and Longhorn trims. The standard version of the Hurricane is standard on the Sport, Rebel, and Laramie trims, developing 420 horsepower and 469 lb-ft of torque. The Tradesman and Big Horn still receive the classic 3.6-liter Pentastar V6.
But back to our test drive! Numbers are one thing, but it's on the road where the magic happens. Once out of the parking lot, we head to the highway. The accelerations are vigorous, and the 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds feels perfectly plausible! A performance that places the vehicle on par with certain sports cars.
Driving on Montreal's South Shore, we are immediately won over by the suspension's refinement. The standard coil-spring rear multi-link suspension and reinforced shock absorbers contribute to exceptional ride comfort. The steering, though light, offers excellent precision, allowing us to navigate easily through narrower streets.
Technology serving driving
Driving assistance technologies prove particularly useful in urban traffic. The new hands-free active driving assistance works remarkably smoothly, rarely requiring manual intervention. The transition between assisted and manual driving is seamless.
It is also complemented by a suite of driving aids that we didn't have the chance to try, including blind-spot monitoring and emergency braking with pedestrian detection. And we must mention traffic sign recognition, which displays speed changes with surprising accuracy!
Returning to Longueuil, we spot a free space in parallel parking and decide to test the parking assistance system. The RAM's imposing size could intimidate some drivers, but the Park-Sense system works wonders! Sensors and cameras turn parking into child's play, guiding us with precision.
Finally, we conclude our journey by heading back to Duclos Longueuil Chrysler.
Beyond luxury: a versatile truck
The leather, wood trims, chrome accents, and conveniences certainly add to making the Tungsten a dream truck. But RAM doesn't lose its utilitarian vocation along the way! Equipped with the Hurricane engine, the truck offers a maximum towing capacity of 11,560 lb (regular) to 10,740 lb (high output).
Although our test didn't include towing, it is worth noting the impressive suite of dedicated technologies and a panoramic screen that is very useful during maneuvers.
The bed also offers remarkable versatility. We had the opportunity to climb up easily thanks to the electric footboards; the dampened tailgate opens smoothly and reveals several useful everyday features like the RamBox storage system and bed lighting.
Verdict
A day behind the wheel of the 2025 RAM 1500 Tungsten was enough to win us over: this trim sets a new benchmark for luxury in the segment. And the performance of the new Hurricane engine quickly makes us forget the HEMI V8!
The Tungsten is certainly not within everyone's reach, but the lineup offers several versions suited to all budgets. We are here to guide you if needed, and above all, we maximize your chances with flexible financing offers. So, when will you come test the new RAM truck?
