2017 Ram 1500: A Detailed Overview
The 2017 Ram 1500 continued its legacy as a formidable and versatile full-size pickup truck, offering a compelling blend of capability, comfort, and advanced technology. It remained a strong contender in a highly competitive segment, appealing to a wide range of buyers from weekend warriors to commercial users.
Highlights
- Engine Options: The 2017 Ram 1500 provided a robust selection of powertrains to suit various needs.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6: This capable engine offered a good balance of power and fuel efficiency for everyday driving and lighter hauling duties. It was a solid choice for those prioritizing economy without sacrificing too much capability.
- 5.7L HEMI V8: The legendary HEMI engine delivered exhilarating power and torque, making it ideal for towing heavier loads and providing confident acceleration. It was the go-to for those who demanded maximum performance.
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: This innovative diesel engine offered impressive fuel economy for a truck of its size, along with substantial torque for towing. It was a popular option for buyers looking to maximize their miles per gallon while still maintaining strong towing capabilities.
- Safety Features: Ram prioritized safety in the 2017 1500, incorporating a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems.
- ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera: Standard on most trims, this camera provided a clear view of what was behind the vehicle when in reverse, significantly aiding in parking and maneuvering.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): This system continuously monitors vehicle movement and can automatically apply brakes to individual wheels and reduce engine power to help the driver maintain control during challenging driving conditions.
- Trailer Sway Control: An integrated part of ESC, this feature detects and corrects trailer sway, providing greater confidence and security when towing.
- Available ParkSense Front and Rear Park Assist: Ultrasonic sensors in the front and rear bumpers provided audible warnings to help drivers avoid obstacles while parking.
- Available Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking: This advanced system could detect potential frontal collisions and warn the driver, and in some cases, automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid an impact.
- Trim Levels: The 2017 Ram 1500 offered a diverse range of trims, each tailored to different preferences and needs.
- Tradesman: The no-nonsense, workhorse of the lineup, designed for durability and functionality. It focused on essential features for job sites and everyday utility.
- Express: A step up from the Tradesman, offering some added cosmetic enhancements and convenience features while maintaining a value-oriented proposition.
- Big Horn: A popular mid-level trim that struck a balance between comfort and capability, often featuring more premium interior materials and amenities.
- Sport: Targeted at buyers seeking a more aggressive and stylish appearance, the Sport trim typically boasted body-colored accents and enhanced interior features.
- Laramie: Representing a significant step into luxury, the Laramie offered a well-appointed interior with premium leather seating, advanced infotainment, and a more refined driving experience.
- Laramie Longhorn: Positioned as a premium, Western-themed luxury trim, it featured unique interior and exterior styling cues, high-quality materials, and an abundance of comfort and convenience features.
- Limited: The pinnacle of Ram 1500 luxury, the Limited trim offered the most advanced technology, the most opulent materials, and the most comprehensive feature set, providing a truly premium truck experience.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- RamBox Cargo Management System: This innovative in-bed storage solution provided lockable, lighted, and drainable storage bins integrated into the truck's bed rails, offering secure and convenient storage for tools, gear, or beverages.
- Coil Spring Rear Suspension: A signature feature of the Ram 1500, the five-link coil spring rear suspension contributed to a smoother and more refined ride quality compared to traditional leaf spring setups, making it a more comfortable daily driver.
- Uconnect Infotainment System: The user-friendly Uconnect system, available with touchscreen displays of various sizes, offered seamless integration of navigation, audio, and smartphone connectivity.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Ram 1500 typically involves a rewarding experience, characterized by its robust performance and comfortable ride. For most owners, routine maintenance will involve oil changes, tire rotations, and checking fluid levels. The Pentastar V6 and HEMI V8 engines are generally reliable, with readily available parts and a strong network of service centers. The EcoDiesel, while offering great efficiency, might require specialized attention for its diesel-specific components.
Insurance costs for the Ram 1500 will vary based on the chosen trim level, engine, driver history, and location. As a full-size truck, it will likely incur higher insurance premiums than smaller vehicles, but its advanced safety features can sometimes help mitigate these costs. Fuel economy, especially with the V8 engines, will be a consideration for daily drivers. However, the EcoDiesel variant significantly reduces this concern for those prioritizing fuel savings.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Ram 1500 is a highly capable truck, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects. The older design, having been introduced in 2009 with a significant refresh in 2013, might lack some of the most cutting-edge technology and driver-assistance features found in newer competitors released around the same time. Some owners have reported occasional issues with the infotainment system freezing or becoming unresponsive, though software updates can often address these problems. Additionally, while the coil spring suspension offers a superior ride, some users who frequently haul extremely heavy loads may find the payload capacity slightly less than some competitors utilizing leaf springs.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Ram 1500 stands as a highly competent and appealing full-size pickup truck. It successfully blended potent engine options, a comfortable and refined ride thanks to its innovative suspension, and a range of technology and luxury features across its various trims. Whether for work, recreation, or daily commuting, the 2017 Ram 1500 offered a compelling package that continued to earn it a loyal following in the competitive pickup truck market.