The 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 is just as tough, durable, and reliable as ever. Dodge has increased the frame strength and the Ram 3500 remains the only heavy-duty truck to come standard with a 5.7 liter Hemi V8 engine. Buyers can choose from a wide array of trim levels, including the ST, SLT, Laramie, and Resistol. However, consumers may be turned off by the higher price tag than competitors offerings from Ford or Chevrolet as well as the lackluster warranty plan.
The standard 2-door 3500 seats three in the same cloth-upholstered bench seat as the prior year's model. Dodge has employed a stain and odor resistant fabric for the upholstery, surely a shout-out to the dirty workman who has an aversion to shampooing his work truck. The center seatback folds down to allow for both convenient storage space and a comfortable writing surface. The Laramie trim boasts dual-zone temperature controls that give the driver and passenger a comfortable ride no matter their differences. For the vertically-challenged driver, the Ram features adjustable foot pedals.
The 3500 has made several technological advances as well. The truck comes standard with a UConnect handsfree phone system that allows the driver to make and answer phone calls with simple voice commands. The radio mutes itself during any phone calls. The busy contractor, or any driver that communicates frequently by phone, will find this a handy and safe alternative to taking their hands off the wheel to answer that all-important call.
The Ram also comes standard with Sirius Satellite Radio and a free one-year subscription. For those that long for all-day Elvis or Blue Collar Comedy, the radio subscription is a welcome treat. GPS Navigation Radio is also a convenient luxury that will allow the driver to brag that he never stops for directions. Actually, he never even gets lost. The Quad and Mega Cab versions make available a ceiling mounted video system. So, when the crew gets bored during those long drives to the worksite, pop in the latest Bob the Builder DVD to keep them busy.
The 6.7 liter turbo diesel engine upgrade packs 350 horsepower and 16,500-lb towing capability. For those that have gotten on the "green" train, this diesel engine claims to put out superiorly clean emissions as well. Both 8-ft and 6.25-ft bed lengths are available on the regular and quad-cab versions. Heavy loads in the bed will not bog down the 2008 Ram; it maintains a payload of 12,200 pounds in the gross vehicle weight rating.
Though the new 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 includes numerous technological amenities, its hefty MSRP could be enough to deter interested buyers. While the Ram's base model is listed at $28,695, Chevrolet's and Ford's comparables are both listed in the mid to lower-twenty thousand range. Not only that, both Ford and Chevrolet boast higher powertrain and rust/corrosion warranties. Roadside assistance lasts for five years on the comparables, while Dodge only offers a three-year program. The techie construction worker will be pleased with the Ram's capabilities, but wallet-conscious, no frills buyers should look elsewhere.
