RAM 1500 CLASSIC: Down to earth and ready to work.
PROS: Comes in many configurations; strong engines and towing capacities; affordable; and highly customizable.
CONS: Not ideal for off-roading; some antiquated features for a 2022 model; and low fuel economy.
VERDICT:
Does it have any competitors or rivals?
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Toyota Tundra.
What’s interesting about the 1500 Classic?
- If you feel like the latest Ram 1500 is over the top, the 1500 Classic is for you.
- This year's model comes in three trims, three cab options, and three bed options.
- Warlock, the high-end trim, comes with many more options than the other two trims, but it's still not as luxurious as the new 1500.
- This pickup is ideal for the busy commuter who needs no-nonsense towing capabilities.
How about the prices and trims?
The 1500 Classic comes in three trims: Tradesman, Express, and Warlock. The Tradesman starts at $29,515, while express costs $31,015. The top-tier trim, Warlock, starts at $40,635. In comparison, the new 1500 ranges from $36,000 to just under $77,000. All three trims come with a variety of cab and bed configurations.
These trims offer a range of features, but they don't have the sophisticated stylings and off-road capabilities of the new 1500. Be sure to read our reviews about the new 1500 and our spotlight on TRX, the high-end trim.
Which one do we recommend?
We recommend checking out the Express trim. For less than $2,000, drivers have more features, additional optional elements, and it's still less expensive than the base trim of the new 1500. We recommend adding a few packages, including the Electronics Group and the Trailer Tow Group.
What about its availability?
The 1500 Classic is available across the United States. Make an appointment to visit your local Ram dealership today.
What about its performance and handling?
- All three trims come equipped with a 305-horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a 4X2 powertrain.
- A 4x4 powertrain and a 5.7-liter V8 engine that generates 395 horsepower are also available.
- Both the Tradesman and Express trims can tow up to 4,940 pounds, while the Warlock can only tow 4,560 pounds.
- All 1500 Classic pickups come with a 26-gallon fuel tank, but the Warlock can get fitted with a 32-gallon tank.
Like the new 1500, the 1500 Classic offers an exceptionally smooth ride thanks to the heavy-duty shock absorbers and axles. Off-roading may not be an option with this truck, but it's ideal for the worksite. The fuel economy is average with the V6: 17/25 mpg in the city/highway. The number drops a little if you choose a 4x4 powertrain and significantly if you opt for the V8 engine. If you choose the V8 engine, get the 32-gallon tank to make your gas last longer between visiting the pump. (The 32-gallon tank is only available for the Warlock trim).
How’s the interior?
Cabin Space
Drivers can choose between a regular cab, a crew cab, or a quad cab for all three 1500 Classic trims. The regular cab seats three and gets paired with either a 6'4" or 8" bed. Crew cab seats six and comes with either a 5'7" or 6'4" bed. Lastly, the quad cab seats six but only gets paired with a 6'4" bed. While both the crew and quad cabs come with four doors, the crew cab offers slightly more spaciousness in the backseat. The interior also features a variety of cubbies and storage spaces to help folks store everything they need for a busy workday. We recommend opting for the bucket seats and lumbar support for the front seats so long commutes aren't too hard on your back.
Infotainment and connectivity
All three trims come standard with a five-inch touchscreen display, Uconnect 3, Bluetooth, USB ports, and a six-speaker sound system. We'd recommend upgrading to the 8.4-inch touchscreen with Uconnect, either with or without the navigation program. A Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a nine-speaker sound system are also available. As mentioned above, the 1500 Classic is a less tech-savvy and luxurious version of the 1500 pickup. If you're looking for something more upscale, read our separate review of the new 1500.
LIKES: Many optional features, including a CD player (for those not ready to get rid of our favorite mixes), let drivers customize the interior to their liking.
DISLIKES: High-end features are hard to find, such as leather upholstery or heated and ventilated seats.
How about the technology and features?
LIKES: Drivers can expect to see thoughtful features such as a 115-volt power outlet, easy-to-clean floor mats, and extra storage bins.
DISLIKES: While we appreciate Ram providing shoppers a bare-bones truck, the extra features on the Warlock aren't worth the extra money, such as sun visors with illuminated mirrors. Very few driver assistant programs come standard.
Quick Quirks: To get the most out of your 1500 Classic, we recommend looking at the optional packages, even if you opt for Warlock, the top trim. |
Some additional features include:
- Despite not having an automatic climate control system, the 1500 Classic has an excellent A/C system.
- If you intend to tow anything with the 1500 Classic, the optional Trailer Tow package is a must.
- Drivers looking to spruce up the interior or exterior have a few options available, but if you want to add a lot, be sure to compare this model to the new 1500. You might find what you want and then some for the same price.
- The 1500 Classic is one of the few trucks available that offer an 8-foot bed; unfortunately, that only comes with a Regular cab.
How’s the exterior?
Like the new 1500, this pickup embodies a muscular and confident stance. Large wheels, subtle designs, and an in-your-face front grille mean that no one will question the prowess under the hood. Shoppers that want to spruce up the exterior can add extra decals, chrome wheels, and bright bumpers. The 1500 Classic also comes in a wide range of exciting colors to help your pickup stand out among the crowd.
What warranty and safety does it offer?
Very few features come standard, and all 1500 Classic trims come with an above-average warranty package.
- As of this rating, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not rated the 1500 Classic.
- Limited warranty for 36,000 miles or three years.
- Powertrain warranty for 60,000 miles or five years.
- Roadside assistance for 60,000 miles or five years.
Are there any incentives and rebates for the 1500 Classic?
To learn about incentives and rebates, visit your local Ram dealership.
2022 RAM 1500 Classic in Rockmart
