2009 Dodge Ram – LA Auto Show

As fun as SEMA was, we didn’t get our fill of that new car smell, so one of the AutoAnything crew hit the LA Auto Show last week to pickup the scent once again.

One truck in particular caught our eye; the ’09 Dodge Ram.  Believe me when I say that this ain’t yo daddies 1500!  The exterior has some significant yet subtle changes that improve the looks and add functionality.  Optional two-tone paint adds a nice touch, as do the extra chome accents on the door handles and mirrors.  Dodge has also revolutionized the truckbed with toolboxes that are integrated into the sides of the bed.  The RamBox Storage System is paint-matched, lockable, weatherproof, drainable and illuminated for the ultimate style, utility and convenience.  The addition of chrome-tipped dual exhaust system integrated into the rear bumper finishes off the rear end nicely.  Not only has Dodge redesigned the Ram on the outside, but it’s all new on the inside too.

More interior options like heated and cooled front seats and a 7.1 surround sound system that will rock whatever you load up in the integrated multimedia and navigation system.  The nav system, dubbed uConnect, has a slew of new features including bluetooth, wifi, integrated Sirius Satellite radio and a 30 gigabyte hard drive.  The all-new dash board looks both clean and functional; dual glove compartments give ample storage room while stitching accents the instrument panel.  The Ram Crew cab is even more spacious in the rear with innovative “store in the floor” bins that have removable liners for easy cleaning.

Dodge has stuck with the 5.7-liter hemi for the top-o-the-line power plant, but you can also get a 4.7-liter flex fuel V8 or a 3.7-liter V6.  The rear suspension has been given new coil springs and a mulit-link design to maximize towing capacity without sacrificing ride quality.  I’d suggest taking a look at the RamChallenge to find out how much more capable the horned beast has become… plus it’s pretty entertaining to watch.