The 2013 Ram 1500 delivers best-in-class fuel economy with a truckload of pioneering, fuel-saving systems including a more fuel efficient and more powerful 3.6-liter V-6 engine and first-in-segment technologies: eight-speed automatic transmission, stop-start system, thermal management system, pulse-width modulation and active aerodynamics, including grille shutters and air suspension. The new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with variable-valve timing offers best-in-class standard 305 horsepower with 269 lb.-ft. of torque and best-in-class fuel economy for V-6 trucks. The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with fuel-saving cylinder shut-off and VVT provides 395 horsepower with 407 lb.-ft. of torque and best-in-class fuel economy for V-8 trucks. The HEMI delivers best-in-class towing and payload — 11,500 pounds and 3,125 pounds respectively, with Ram 1500 Tradesman Heavy Duty.

The eight-speed automatic transmission (TorqueFlite 8) doubles the amount of gears compared to previously available four-speed automatic transmission, improving drivability and enhancing fuel efficiency. The 2013 Ram 1500’s new, exclusive eight-speed transmission created the need for an innovative rotary e-shift dial in the cockpit to replace the center console gate shifter — a first for pickups. Pulse-width modulation is a new fuel-saving technology for the Ram 1500, which reduces parasitic electrical load. The technology not only eliminates unnecessary load on the alternator but also improves the durability of benefitting systems.