Is the Dodge Ram 1500 fast?
In brief, the Ram 1500’s speed depends on the model: base and mid-range trims are quick for a full-size pickup, while the high-performance Ram 1500 TRX is exceptionally fast for a truck.
The Ram 1500 lineup spans multiple powertrains—from a fuel-efficient diesel to a modern V6 and a V8—plus a purpose-built performance version. The high-end Ram 1500 TRX uses a supercharged V8 to deliver sports-car-like acceleration for a pickup, while other trims emphasize daily practicality, towing capability, and efficiency. This article breaks down how fast each option is and what that means on the road.
Engine options and how they translate to speed
Below is a snapshot of the main engines and their typical performance figures in the Ram 1500 lineup.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque: about 305 hp and 269 lb-ft; 8-speed automatic; 0-60 mph generally around the mid-6-second range in 2WD configurations.
- 5.7L Hemi V8 with eTorque: about 395 hp and 410 lb-ft; 8-speed; 0-60 mph typically in the mid-to-high 5-second range depending on drivetrain and body style.
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: about 260 hp and 480 lb-ft; 8-speed; 0-60 mph roughly in the mid-to-high 7-second range, with strong low-end torque for towing and efficiency.
- 6.2L Supercharged Hemi (Ram 1500 TRX): 702 hp and 650 lb-ft; 4-wheel drive; 0-60 mph around 4.0 seconds; top speed near 118 mph; designed for high-speed on-road and off-road performance.
In everyday driving, the V6 and V8 options provide brisk acceleration suitable for highway merging and overtaking, while the EcoDiesel prioritizes torque and efficiency over outright speed. The TRX, by contrast, sits in the performance category for trucks and is built for speed on both pavement and off-road.
Real-world performance and driving impressions
Professional reviews note that the Ram 1500’s weight and ride quality influence acceleration and handling. The EcoDiesel’s torque helps with towing and hill climbs but is not a hot-rod option. The V8 models offer a satisfying, linear rush, especially with the eTorque system smoothing transitions between gears. The TRX logs some of the strongest numbers in the segment, but its supercharged power comes with greater fuel use and a firmer ride.
What buyers should consider
If speed is the primary criterion, the Ram 1500 TRX is the standout choice. For daily driving, the V6 or V8 with mild hybrid is more than adequate and typically more efficient than the older V8-only configurations. For long-distance cruising with a focus on efficiency, the EcoDiesel is compelling, though acceleration is not as brisk as the gasoline variants.
Bottom line: the Ram 1500 lineup offers a broad spectrum of performance, from practical everyday speed to extreme acceleration in the TRX, making it faster than many rivals in certain configurations while offering sensible efficiency in others.
Summary
The Ram 1500’s speed is highly variant by model. Standard and mid-range trims deliver solid, practical acceleration for a full-size pickup. The EcoDiesel prioritizes torque and efficiency, not top-speed, while the Ram 1500 TRX is exceptionally fast for a truck, with 702 hp and a 0-60 mph time around 4 seconds. Overall, the lineup blends everyday usability with standout performance at the top end.
