The half-ton pickup truck world still offers choices of bodies and builds, but you must select the base trims to find them. This is where the 2023 Ram 1500 Tradesman comes in. This full-size truck offers a choice of a Quad Cab or Crew Cab to give you the cabin size you desire. Can you get everything you need out of the base version of this Ram truck?

Is the 2023 Ram 1500 Tradesman the foundational truck you want?

The two cab options of this Ram truck bring a pair of bed choices. If you select the Crew Cab, you’ll have a 6’ 4” bed, but the Quad Cab offers either a 5’ 7” or a 6’ 4” bed.

The base powertrain for this full-size truck is a 3.6-liter V6 engine providing 305 horsepower for the drive. This engine includes a 48-volt eTorque mild-hybrid system. Power routes to the rear wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Towing capacity for this base truck is 7,740 pounds, and the payload tops out at 2,335 pounds.

Overall, the capability and build of this Ram truck offer a strong foundation.

What features are part of this full-size Ram truck?

The Tradesman offers a straightforward equipment list. This truck brings:

• 18-inch steel wheels
• A damped tailgate with a built-in LED hitch lamp
• Heated side mirrors with a wide-angle convex insert
• A Class III bumper hitch
• A bed lamp
• Variable wipers
• Automatic on/off headlights
• Trailer sway control
• Roll mitigation
• Rear seat reminder
• Tire pressure monitoring
• Keyless entry
• Push-button starting
• 40/20/40 split-bench seat
• Tilt/telescoping steering wheel
• Cruise control
• 5-inch Uconnect touchscreen
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Two USB ports
• Six-speaker audio system

Are there any options available for the 2023 Ram 1500 Tradesman?

Yes, as the base/starting point for this half-ton pickup truck, the Tradesman model has several options and packages for you. Some of these items are:

• 4WD
• SiriusXM Guardian (Includes Automatic SOS calling, remote start, and roadside assistance)
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alerts
• Lane departure warning
• Trailer Reverse Steering Control
• Level 1 Equipment Group
  • SiriusXM satellite radio
  • 40/20/40 cloth bench seat
  • Power sliding rear window
  • Full carpeting
  • In-floor storage
• Spray-in bedliner
• Exterior chrome accents
• Upgraded wheels
• 33-gallon fuel tank
• Trailer brake control
• Deployable bed steps
• Off-Road Group (4WD models only)
  • Tow hooks
  • Off-road shocks
  • Electronic locking rear axle
  • Hill descent control
  • All-terrain tires
  • Skid plates
• Air suspension
• Max tow package(Hemi and diesel engines only)
• Trailer Tow Group
• Snow Plow Prep Package
  • 220-amp alternator
  • Plow prep wiring harness
  • Power sliding rear window with defroster

Are there engine upgrades for the 2023 Ram 1500 Tradesman?

Yes, you can upgrade the powertrain with either a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine with eTorque technology or a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine.

The Hemi V8 offers 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Adding this engine increases the tow rating to 12,750 pounds.

The EcoDiesel V6 of this Ram truck delivers 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. Towing for this diesel engine matches the Hemi V8 at 12,750 pounds.

How much does this Ram half-ton truck cost?

The 2023 Ram 1500 Tradesman starts at $36,820 for the Quad Cab model and the standard bed. If you add some of the options to this full-size truck, you’ll pay more to enjoy the capability offered.

Does this Ram truck give you the truck stuff desired?

If you’re looking for a capable, strong, and comfortable truck to drive, the base version of the Ram 1500 could be a good choice. Unfortunately, this trim level doesn’t offer connectivity via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which enter the Ram 1500 when you step up to higher trim levels.

Next, check out the Chevy Silverado Police Truck, or watch this Ram 1500 video below: