Dealerships are already preoccupied with trying to get rid of their 2024 inventory. In order to do this, they need to clear out the rest of their 2023 inventory at ridiculously low prices, which means now is the time to finally take action on a 2023 Dodge Ram if you’ve been on the fence.
When you want to talk about the highest rated trucks on the market, you have to mention the Dodge Ram. Not only is it consistently one of the top trucks every year, but you can even get it now for a great price.
The Dodge Ram is a feature-packed and reliable truck that has built up a fantastic reputation over the years. There are also different models for many different use cases. Whether you need a work truck, a vehicle for your family, or an off-road beast, the Ram has you covered.
2023 Dodge Ram 1500
Dodge Rams have been Motortrend’s Truck of the Year for the past 3 years, and the Ram 1500 won the award in 2019. It comes in at a decent price as well, with the base model costing just around $31,000. For a few thousand less, you can get a 1500 Classic instead.
Engine and Mileage
Thanks to the 3.6 liter V6 engine inside of it, the base Ram 1500 can produce 305 horsepower. If you lay down the cash to upgrade to the Hemi V8 instead, you will see a sizeable boost up to 395 hp. This model can also tow a load up to 12,750 pounds. Bringing up the rear is the EcoDiesel engine, which can only produce 260 horsepower.
While the EcoDiesel engine is the weakest of the bunch, the reason for going with it should be fairly obvious. As the name might suggest, it is all about the fuel economy. In tests, the 2023 Ram EcoDiesel had one of the highest ranges of vehicles in its class, exceeding 1,000 miles per fill-up with the larger 33-gallon fuel tank.
Interior and Safety
Air con is a given for anything in this price range, but the Ram 1500 also has heated and ventilated reclining rear seats. Combined with the size of the cabin, you can expect a very comfortable ride in the front or back.
You won’t have to pay extra to get some nice toys in the cabin. The base model comes with a 12-inch HD display, and a 900-watt Harmon Kardon sound system. The touch screen is how you control the aforementioned heated seats, as well as a host of other goodies.
Speaking of technology, the Ram 1500 is packed with a chunk of safety features. You’ll have access to automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and a lane departure warning system. A more advanced feature that you won’t see on other cars is the self-parking system.
2023 Dodge Ram 2500
As always, the main difference between the 1500 and the 2500 is that the latter is more heavy-duty. It’s a beefier machine, with a spec sheet to match that statement. Another important thing to note is that both the Ram 2500 and 3500 were named Motortrend’s Truck of the Year for 2020.
Engine and Mileage
Inside the hood for the base model is a 410 horsepower 6.4 liter Hemi V8 that produces 429 lb-ft of torque. It has pretty decent fuel mileage when compared to similar vehicles from other companies.
For more hauling power, you can upgrade to the turbodiesel 6.7 liter Cummins I-6. It has less horsepower at 270, but it also has 850 lb-ft of torque. That gives you enough juice to tow approximately 20,000 pounds.
The two different engine options are both perfect for people who loves to travel off the beaten path. Since the vehicle has extra protection on the underside as well as good shock absorbers, the Ram 2500 can chew through off-road situations.
Interior and Safety
Unlike the 1500, the Ram 2500 doesn’t come standard with the 12-inch touch screen. The base model has a much smaller five-inch unit, but you always have the option to upgrade to the 12-inch Uconnect display. Another extra that you’ll be able to purchase is an impressive 17-speaker sound system.
Safety-wise, you get a lot of the same features that the Ram 1500 has already. You have access to blind-spot warning, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking on all versions. A 360-degree parking camera will also come in handy when trying to maneuver the ¾ ton truck.
2023 Dodge Ram 3500
For those who want the most heavy-duty option, the Ram 3500 is the answer. It comes loaded with premium options to go along with its power. If you want an off-road monster without giving up high tech creature comforts, this is the truck for you.
Engine and Mileage
You get the same two engines as the 2500, but there’s an additional high-output Cummins unit that outputs 400 horsepower and 1,000 lb-ft of torque. When you add on dual rear wheels, you have a towing capacity of 35,100 pounds, and a maximum payload of 6,570 pounds.
Interior and Safety
You might think all that power would make for a bumpy, noisy ride. However, the opposite is true here, thanks to active noise cancelling and acoustic glass. There are also many unique interior options, such as having trim made from real reclaimed wood or going with something more industrial-looking.
The safety features here are the same as mentioned above, like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision monitoring. For a full list, be sure to check out Ram’s official website.
Even though the 2023 model isn’t the newest on the block, it still represents a lot of truck for a good price. It’s something worth considering if you are on the market for a new pickup truck but also want to save money. Just remember to do your research ahead of time so you get the best vehicle for the best price.
Finding a 2023 Dodge Ram under $24,845 might be challenging, but there are still options! Here are a few suggestions:
1. Consider a used 2023 Ram:
Used car marketplaces like Cars.com, Autotrader, and Carfax list several 2023 Ram 1500 trucks under your budget. You might find options with higher mileage, but with careful searching, you can find a well-maintained truck that fits your needs.
Look for dealerships specializing in used trucks. They often have a wider selection and may be more negotiable on price.
2. Look for specific trims:
The Tradesman is the base trim level and is most likely to fall within your budget. It comes with basic features but still offers a powerful engine and comfortable cabin.
The SLT trim adds features like a touchscreen infotainment system, remote keyless entry, and heated seats. You might find a used SLT close to your budget, especially with higher mileage.
3. Expand your search area:
If you’re flexible with location, you might find better deals in areas with lower car prices. Be sure to factor in travel costs when considering deals outside your immediate area.
4. Negotiate:
Once you find a Ram that interests you, don’t be afraid to negotiate the price. Be prepared with research on comparable models and be willing to walk away if you don’t get a fair offer.
Remember, buying a car is a big decision, so take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from a trusted mechanic or car buying service.