2021 Ram 1500 review
Ram 1500 highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Ram 1500 TRX is a hugely capable off-road model
- More tech offerings for 2021 add more appeal to the lineup
Cons
- Driver-assist technology remains optional across the range
- The TRX impresses, but it should given its near $100,000 price tag
Mileage (EPA estimate)
10 city, 14 highway, 12 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
Shop with your budget in mind
The 2021 Ram 1500 adds even more capability with TRX model
Few vehicle types match the breadth of use of full-size light-duty pickup trucks, and there's no better representative than the 2021 Ram 1500. At one end of the scale is the relatively basic Tradesman trim, bought by thousands of people who just need a truck to go about their business. At the opposite end is the Ram 1500 TRX, a new-for-2021 model that features a thundering supercharged 6.2-liter engine producing 702 hp. It can reach 60 mph on almost any surface in just 4.5 seconds, thanks to special tires, an off-road-specific suspension, and a reinforced frame. Its capabilities, and MSRP close to $100,000, surely put it out of reach for many, but the Ram 1500 is a great truck even at less lofty price points.
There's near limitless choice: three cabs and four cargo bed lengths, combined with four engines, rear- or all-wheel drive, and seven available trims. All Ram 1500s come with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the engine choices are a 3.6-liter V6 with 305 hp, a 5.7-liter V8 with 395 hp, a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel with 260 hp, and that supercharged 702-hp 6.2-liter V8 that's unique to the TRX. All models drive very smoothly thanks to the fitting of coil springs under the cargo bed. The Ram 1500 is easy to recommend in any form, though it's regrettable that many of the latest driver aids remain on the options list.
All Ram 1500 years
What is new for the 2021 Ram 1500?
- The 1500 is available in a new trim called the TRX.
- 1500 trims have been upgraded with Automated Parking, Rear A/C Seat(s), and Supercharged Engine as standard equipment this year.
- Head Up Display features are now available as options on select trims.
- The Lonestar trim now comes with Bed Liner and Smart Key as standard equipment.
- The Bighorn trim now comes with Bed Liner, Satellite Radio Ready, and Smart Key as standard equipment.
- The Rebel trim now comes with Smart Key as standard equipment.
- The Tradesman trim now comes with Bed Liner as standard equipment.
- The Longhorn trim now comes with Navigation System and Blind Spot Monitor as standard equipment.
- The HFE trim now comes with Smart Key as standard equipment.
2021 Ram 1500 trims
Tradesman:
- 395-hp, 410-lb-ft of torque 5.7L
- 305-hp, 269-lb-ft of torque 3.6L
- 260-hp, 480-lb-ft of torque 3.0L
- Cruise Control
- Vinyl Seats
- Power Mirrors
- Traction Control
- Side Airbags
- Overhead Airbags
- Rear View Camera
- Smart Key
- View our Ram 1500 Tradesman inventory
HFE:
- Includes all features available on the Tradesman
- Cloth Seats
- Running Boards
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
Bighorn:
- Includes all features available on the HFE
- Power Seats
- Satellite Radio Ready
- View our Ram 1500 Bighorn inventory
Lonestar:
- Includes all features available on the Bighorn
- No significant upgrades found on the Lonestar
- View our Ram 1500 Lonestar inventory
Laramie:
- Includes all features available on the Lonestar
- Rear Defroster
- Leatherette Seats
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Automated Parking
- A/C Seats
- Memory Seats
- Front Seat Heaters
- Leather Seats
- View our Ram 1500 Laramie inventory
Rebel:
- Includes all features available on the Laramie
- Leatherette & Cloth
- Parking Sensors
- View our Ram 1500 Rebel inventory
Longhorn:
- Includes all features available on the Rebel
- Rear A/C Seats
- Navigation System
- 8508
- Rear Seat Heaters
- View our Ram 1500 Longhorn inventory
Limited:
- Includes all features available on the Longhorn
- Blind Spot Monitor
- View our Ram 1500 Limited inventory
TRX:
- Includes all features available on the Limited
- 702-hp, 650-lb-ft of torque 6.2L
- Supercharged Engine
Ram 1500 photos
5 reasons to buy the 2021 Ram 1500
1. Powertrain options
The 2021 Ram 1500 offers a wide assortment of engine options, providing the power you need to tackle big jobs. The 3.6L Pentastar® V6 (standard in Tradesman, Big Horn, and Rebel trims) and 5.7L HEMI V8 (available in all trims) include an eTorque mild-hybrid system, which optimizes shift changes for an extra boost of performance. You can also find 2021 Ram 1500s with the 5.7L Hemi V8 without the mild-hybrid system if you prefer a truck with a traditional powertrain (standard in Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited trims; available in all other trims). For a torque-rich engine that's also practical at the pumps, consider the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel (available on all trims). When equipped with rear-wheel drive and the eight-speed automatic transmission, the 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel returns an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined.
2. New TRX trim
For 2021, changes to the Ram 1500 include a new TRX trim, which redefines the boundaries of what a pickup can be. Powered by a 6.2L HEMI supercharged V8 with 702 hp and 650 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX is a high-performance truck that can go from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new). This model also includes a launch control with launch-assist system, which regulates engine RPM and monitors wheel slip feedback to achieve fast acceleration rates. You can off-road in the TRX, too, with the standard 2.5-inch Bilstein® Black Hawk e2 adaptive performance shocks, which continuously adapt to varied terrain for optimal body control.
3. Strong towing abilities
If you're shopping for a pickup to help you tow with ease, the 2021 Ram 1500 will impress you with its pulling abilities and smart technologies. For heavy loads, consider the 2021 Ram 1500 with the 5.7L V8 HEMI with eTorque, which can tow an estimated 12,750 lbs. when properly equipped.
4. Comfortable cabin
The 2021 Ram 1500 has a roomy cabin with cavernous passenger space and functional cubby storage to keep belongings nearby. With room for five or six passengers, depending on the trim you choose, Crew Cab models boast 45.2 inches of rear-seat legroom and available reclining rear-seats for customized comfort on long trips. The available in-floor storage zone is also a great place to store tools or cargo out-of-view (Tradesman and Big Horn trims with Crew Cab only). You'll love how bright the cabin feels with the available dual-pane power-operated sunroof (standard on 2021 Ram 1500 Big Horn and higher trims with Crew Cab only), while leather seating surfaces with accent stitching add to the truck's luxurious atmosphere (standard on Laramie and higher trims).
5. Advanced technology
The 2021 Ram 1500 is a tech-rich truck, offering useful features for work or play. All models come standard with a ParkView rear backup camera to assist with tricky reverse moves, while Laramie and higher trims include a Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch display. The available head-up display (included in the Advanced Technology Group package for Big Horn and higher trims) lets you see stats, like turn-by-turn navigation, current speed, and incoming calls, without taking your eyes off the road. The 2021 Ram 1500 also features an available digital rearview mirror (included in the Advanced Technology Group package for Big Horn and higher trims) that improves driver rearward visibility by displaying real-time video from the rear-facing camera.
Similar vehicles
If you're interested in the 2021 Ram 1500, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.
Redesigned in 2019 for its fifth generation, the RAM 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup that can handle punishing jobs. 2019–2021 models use a 410-hp 6.4L V8 that can tow an estimated 17,580 lbs when properly equipped or an option turbocharged 370-hp 6.7L V6 diesel that can tow an estimated 19,780 lbs when properly equipped.
17-inch steel wheels
Vinyl 40/20/40 front bench seat with manual adjust
Rearview monitor (2018–2021)
The fully redesigned Chevrolet Silverado 1500 was released in 2017. It features three engines, including a 285-hp 4.3L V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Choose from three cab configurations and bed lengths. A refresh in 2019 introduced a 3.0L six-cylinder diesel engine and ten-speed automatic transmission. Need to pull some toys or a camper? You'll find an estimated towing capacity of 12,200 lbs on a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 RWD Double Cab with 6.2L V8 (when properly equipped).
Standard equipment on the 2017-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 include:
4.2-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth (2017–2018)
Cruise control
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (2019 and newer)
In 2019, the midsize Ford Ranger returned to the brand's lineup after an eight-year hiatus. With a standard 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the 2019 Ranger generates 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, plenty for your everyday travels and more. This pickup is practical and powerful but with a compact feel and is ideal for anyone looking for the right-sized truck that is welcomed everywhere it goes.
The base model of the 2019 Ford Ranger includes:
Lane-keeping system
Blind-spot information system with cross-traffic alert
Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking
Rearview camera
Shop with your budget in mind
Ratings & reliability
RepairPal gave the Ram 1500 an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Ram 1500 3rd out of 19 among Fullsize Trucks.
View RepairPal's full rating of the Ram 1500Ram 1500 features and specs
Tradesman 2WD 4D Crew Cab
Standard Features
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Bluetooth Technology
- Cruise Control
- Overhead Airbags
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Windows
- Rear View Camera
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Tow Hitch
- Traction Control
- Turbo Diesel Engine
- Vinyl Seats
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- Adjustable Suspension
- Alloy Wheels
- Apple CarPlay
- Bed Cover
- Bed Liner
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Cloth Seats
- Lane Departure Warning
- Power Seat(s)
- RamBox
- Rear Defroster
- Running Boards
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
3.0L
Horsepower
260
Torque (ft-lbs)
480
Engine type
Turbo Diesel
Fuel capacity
26
Wheelbase
144.5"
Overall length
232.9"
Width
82.1"
Height
77.5"
Leg room
F 40.9"/R 45.2"
Head room
F 40.9"/R 39.8"
Front tires
P275/65TR18
Rear tires
P275/65TR18
Seating capacity
6
Max towing capacity
652/6520 lbs.
Transmission
Automatic
2021 Ram 1500 FAQ
The 2021 Ram 1500 is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- Tradesman: 20 MPG City and 25 MPG Highway
- Tradesman: 22 MPG City and 32 MPG Highway
- TRX: 10 MPG City and 14 MPG Highway
- Lonestar: 20 MPG City and 25 MPG Highway
- Lonestar: 22 MPG City and 32 MPG Highway
- Rebel: 20 MPG City and 25 MPG Highway
- Rebel: 21 MPG City and 29 MPG Highway
- Bighorn: 20 MPG City and 25 MPG Highway
- Bighorn: 22 MPG City and 32 MPG Highway
- HFE: 20 MPG City and 26 MPG Highway
- Laramie: 20 MPG City and 25 MPG Highway
- Laramie: 22 MPG City and 32 MPG Highway
- Longhorn: 20 MPG City and 25 MPG Highway
- Longhorn: 22 MPG City and 32 MPG Highway
- Limited: 22 MPG City and 32 MPG Highway
- Limited: 15 MPG City and 22 MPG Highway
The Ram 1500 received a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks the Ram 1500 as 2 out of 19 among Fullsize Truck
The 2021 Ram 1500 has received an average 4.5 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2021 Ram 1500, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2021 Ram 1500 Reviews.
The 2021 Ram 1500 has a maximum towing capacity of between 6280 and 8430 pounds, when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Here is what's new for the 2021 Ram 1500:
- TRX
- Rear A/C Seat(s)
- Supercharged Engine
- Head Up Display
- Long Bed
More about the 2021 Ram 1500
Color options
Exterior colors:
Billet Silver Metallic
Bright White
Delmonico Red Pearl
Diamond Black Crystal Pearl
Flame Red
Granite Crystal Metallic
Hydro Blue
Ivory Tri-Coat
Maximum Steel Metallic
Olive Green
Patriot Blue Pearl
Two-tone Billet Silver Metallic
Two-tone Diamond Black Crystal Pearl
Two-tone RV Match Walnut Brown Metallic
Interior details
10-speaker sound system (standard on Laramie and higher trims)
Leather upholstery (standard on Laramie and higher trims)
Spray-in bed liner (standard on Longhorn and Limited trims; optional in others)
Available dual-pane power-operated sunroof (Big Horn and higher trims with Crew Cab only)
Available in-floor storage (Tradesman and Big Horn trims only)
NHTSA Safety Ratings
The 2021 Ram 1500 Crew cab with 2WD and 4WD received an overall 5/5 rating by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Find out more about this rating and how NHTSA’s 5-Star Safety Ratings program evaluates the crash protection and rollover safety of new vehicles.
Keep in mind that certain vehicles may have unrepaired safety recalls. Click here to look up a specific vehicle.
Research other vehicles
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.
We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.