If you’re in the market for a new full-size truck, Ram is one of the most popular automakers. However, you have to be careful about which Ram model you purchase. For 2022, Ram makes Consumer Reports best and worst full-size truck. The Ram 1500 is the top-ranked model, but the Ram 1500 Classic is the worst by far. What’s so good about one Ram truck, and how did the automaker mess up with the other?

Consumer Reports’ best full-size truck

Consumer Reports‘ best full-size truck is the 2022 Ram 1500. Not unlike other reviewers, the Ram 1500 sits atop the rankings. Most experts agree, but what’s so good about it? Some of the most important factors are reliability and previous owner satisfaction. CR gave the 2022 Ram 1500 high scores for both based on owner experience in previous model years.

Next, CR loves the full-size truck‘s interior, which is plush. A smooth ride, a quiet interior, and a spacious cabin make the Ram truck borderline luxury. CR calls it a “kinder, gentler pickup truck” compared to its competition. Moreover, the rear seat in the crew cab version provides plenty of legroom for passengers. That isn’t always the case for full-size pickup trucks, so it’s a welcomed feature.

In addition, the interior is tech-filled and easy to use. Three different touchscreen sizes are available, including the largest 12-inch unit. Each includes advanced vehicle-connected services, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto for the two larger versions. If all that isn’t enough, the Ram 1500 is also highly capable, with the ability to tow 12,750 pounds when properly equipped.

Consumer Reports’ worst full-size truck

Surprisingly, the same automaker responsible for the best overall full-size truck is also responsible for the worst. Consumer Reports ranked the 2022 Ram 1500 Classic dead last in its ratings. Far behind even poorly-ranked models like the Nissan Titan and Chevy Silverado, the Ram 1500 Classic is in a league of its own. One significant reason is reliability, which is predicted to be the worst possible for the 2022 model year.

However, there are a few other things CR doesn’t like about the Classic. For example, the reviewer says it has a giant climb into the cabin, so getting inside is challenging. As a result, a low-hanging side-step is a necessity. In addition, as with many V8-engine-housing models, fuel economy is less-than-stellar. For example, the 2022 Ram 1500 Classic averages just ten city and 21 highway mpg.

Finally, the Classic doesn’t have any of the tailgate technology other trucks offer. Even the top-ranked from the same automaker has these modern features. Things like an assist system to ease tailgate weight and steps to help climb inside the bed are available for nearly every other full-size truck. In 2022, features like these are considered modern and standard, so the Ram 1500 Classic feels outdated.

Ram makes the best and worst full-size truck

In conclusion, Ram makes Consumer Reports’ best and worst full-size truck. Many experts agree the 2022 Ram 1500 is the best overall model in its class. However, the 2022 Ram 1500 Classic is the exact opposite, falling short in many ways. If you’re shopping for a new full-size truck and considering Ram, be sure to purchase the standard Ram 1500, not the Classic.