Skip to main content

Every time we turn around, the Ram 1500 has another victory to celebrate. It’s often ranked as the best truck you can buy despite aging, with a few comfortable advantages over the Ford F-150. But the 2023 Ram 1500 is pulling even further ahead of rivals by being the number one truck that most critics recommend again.

Why is the 2023 Ram 1500 the best truck? 

2023 Ram 1500 on a dirt road
2023 Ram 1500 | Ram

According to Car and Driver, the 2023 Ram 1500 is a reliable truck. It has the highest predicted reliability ranking out of every truck on the list. It’s expected to be slightly more reliable than the average new vehicle. It has an average score of 80 out of 100 from J.D. Power.

The Ram 1500 outranks the Toyota Tundra, Ford F-150, and Chevy Silverado 1500. This isn’t new. The Ram 1500 is top ranking truck by MotorTrend, Auto Review Hub, and Pickup Truck Talk.

Plus, the reliability ranking is based on problems reported by drivers in previous model years. The Ram 1500 has been a solid contender for years, with massive improvements made to its quality and durability. 

RepairPal gave it a reliability ranking of 3.5 out of 5.0, which is above average. The Ram truck can make it to 250,000 – 300,000 miles with regular care and proper maintenance. Some models keep on going after 300,000 miles too. 

Does the Ram 1500 provide enough value? 

Yes, the 2023 Ram 1500 provides tons of value with a long list of standard features. It has a high rate of owner satisfaction, meaning drivers are happy with their choice. Over half of Ram 1500 owners shared that they would buy the same truck again. 

It continues to lead the way with unmatched comfort and amenities. If you read other reviews about rivals, Edmunds shared that the Ram 1500 still leads the pack. The decision to switch from leaf springs to a rear coil spring setup continues to pay off. 

The Ram 1500 soaks up varying road imperfections with ease. It doesn’t have the rough pickup truck experience that you might expect. Plus, the active noise cancellation software and insulation provide a peaceful ride. 

The front seats are well-padded and supportive. The rear seats have a relaxed backrest angle with enough space for adults to enjoy. Plus, the climate control system is robust and effective. Each model provides rear air vents for passengers in the back. 

Drivers also enjoy the way the Ram 1500 performs. It has smooth transmission shifts, steady steering, responsive handling, and confident brakes. Body lean is well controlled, and the truck corners well. Overall it’s confident, stable, and in control. 

What are the potential drawbacks? 

2023 Ram 1500 interior
2023 Ram 1500 interior | Ram

While the 2023 Ram 1500 is spacious, comfortable, and capable, it doesn’t have a hybrid engine available. But there is the available Ram eTorque is a mild hybrid assist system. 

The 3.6-liter V6 and 5.7-liter V8 engines get an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and up to 26 mpg on the highway. Adding 4×4 may reduce these figures by one or two miles per gallon. But the 3.0-liter Diesel V6 gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and up to 29 mpg on the highway. 

Also, the Ram 1500 is starting to fall behind regarding tech. It was the first truck to introduce a massive touchscreen infotainment system, but rivals have updated their tech. The Ram 1500 has been mostly unchanged since 2019 and could use a mid-cycle refresh. 

Most vehicles offer tons of standard safety features, but the Ram 1500 is limited. Some options that are standard with rivals are limited to higher trim levels and available packages. 

But other than that, the Ram 1500 is a reliable, comfortable, spacious, and capable option that makes drivers happy. It’s pretty common to see this truck at the top of best truck lists.