2019 RAM 1500 vs 2020 RAM 1500

The 2019 RAM 1500 showcased a notable design evolution that smartly reinterpreted its traditional big-rig styling into a more streamlined and commanding presence. The absence of the signature crosshair grille marked a distinctive move to differentiate the RAM from its Dodge lineage, reflecting a broader strategy to redefine the RAM's brand identity. Each trim level offered unique grille designs and headlight variations, enhancing the vehicle's visual appeal and broadening its market appeal by aligning each model with specific customer preferences. In contrast, the 2020 RAM 1500 continued to refine its aesthetic, benefiting from the industry's trending shift toward larger grilles. Despite retaining a familiar design ethos, the 2020 model distinguished itself by balancing contemporary demands with its legacy features, promoting a sense of robustness paired with modernity. Notably, it managed to carve a niche by addressing the practical aspects of visibility and utility, particularly through enhancements in its light configurations and tailoring trim-specific features that catered to both luxury and practicality. Both vehicles provided a tactile experience that prioritized user comfort and control, but the 2020 iteration made subtle yet significant improvements in material quality and design coherence, showcasing a maturation in RAM’s approach to the driver and passenger experience.

The 2019 RAM 1500 rolled out with updated engine options including a base 3.6-liter V6 fitted with eTorque, providing a mild-hybrid boost that added 90 pound-feet of extra torque, complemented by the potent 5.7-liter Hemi V8, available with or without eTorque. These options offered a refined balance between power and fuel efficiency, with the eTorque system enhancing the truck’s capabilities, particularly in towing where it could handle up to 12,750 pounds. The 2020 model also emphasized performance versatility, retaining the V6 and V8 options, with the latter enjoying the benefits of the eTorque system standard in higher trims. Additionally, it introduced a re-tuned 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine, making strides in torque output that bested even larger engines from competitors. Despite minor critiques regarding its responsiveness, the 2020 RAM 1500's powertrains represented a well-rounded portfolio that catered effectively to both commuting and rigorous work tasks, lending it a competitive edge in its segment.

Interior space and utility were areas where both RAM models excelled, but with marked differences in approach and execution. The 2019 RAM 1500 was praised for its thoughtful interior design, which included a range of storage options from the Ram Bins to the configurable center console. This model offered a power-release tailgate as a notable feature, which, while convenient, was contrasted by competitors offering more advanced solutions like power tailgates that both opened and closed electronically. The 2020 RAM 1500 built on these foundations by not just offering similar storage solutions, but enhancing them with more sophisticated configurations, such as increased interior storage capacity totaling 151 liters. It also addressed some of the functional limitations of the previous model, such as optimizing the towing capacity configurations to better balance performance with practical utility needs.

Technology in the 2019 RAM 1500 centered around the Uconnect system, housed in an optional 8.4-inch or an impressive 12-inch touchscreen. The interface was user-friendly and supported by redundant physical controls for essential functions, ensuring the system was accessible for users of all tech-savertiness. The 2020 model advanced these technologies further, integrating more innovative features such as the expanded application of the eTorque system across more trims and standardizing higher-end technological comforts even in lower trims. The infotainment system received updates that refined user interaction and connectivity, making a strong case for its position as a leader in automotive tech integration within its class.

Safety features in the 2019 model included comprehensive passive and active technologies, with upgrades available in the higher trims such as blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera. It laid a solid groundwork for occupant protection and driver assistance features. The 2020 RAM 1500 pushed these boundaries further by achieving recognition from the IIHS as a Top Safety Pick Plus for the Crew Cab model equipped with all available safety features, setting a new standard for safety within the pickup truck segment. Enhanced standard safety offerings and optional advanced driver assistance systems rounded out its credentials, making it an even more compelling choice for safety-conscious buyers.