beebs

2018 Ram 1500 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
6 photos

Ram 1500 highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • All engine choices offer ample power and good refinement
  • Stylish interior remains among the top in the pickup class

Cons

  • Outright towing capacity not as high as some of the competition
  • Its age means it lacks the latest driver assistance features

Mileage (EPA estimate)

15 city, 21 highway, 17 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

6 photos
Price
Year

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.Get Pre-qualified

2018 Ram 1500 is a solid all-round full-size pickup

Ram nailed it when it introduced this generation Ram 1500 in 2009, and continual improvements mean that it's right at the top of the pile among 2018 tough full-size light-duty pickups. It drives with an uncommon sophistication that's due to the fitting of coil springs at the rear, which settle down the traditionally fidgety ride of pickup trucks. There's a slight trade-off—the Ram 1500 doesn't have quite the towing capacity of leading rivals—but, really, if you need more towing ability than this, you'll be better served by a heavy-duty truck. Model choices are extensive, with rear- and four-wheel drive, four cargo bed lengths, three cabs that can seat from three to six people, and a choice of three engines.

All Ram 1500s come standard with an automatic transmission. The base 3.6-liter V6 is powerful and smooth enough for most buyers, but if you need a bit more power for towing, there's a V6 turbodiesel choice or a 5.7-liter V8 above that. Trim choices range from an entry-level model for those wanting a working truck, right up to fully loaded luxury levels of equipment. The Ram 1500 reveals its age, though, in its lack of sophisticated driver aids. That the 2018 model ends this generation of the Ram 1500 as one of the top light-duty pickups means you should still consider it if you want a well-rounded, capable truck.

All Ram 1500 years

What is new for the 2018 Ram 1500?

  • The 1500 is available in a new trim called the Harvest.
  • The Outdoorsman trim has been discontinued for 2018.
  • 1500 trims have been upgraded with Adjustable Suspension, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard equipment this year.
  • The Bighorn trim now comes with Remote Start as standard equipment.
  • The Night trim now comes with Parking Sensors and Long Bed as standard equipment.
  • The SLT trim now comes with Rear View Camera as standard equipment.
  • The Tradesman trim now comes with Rear View Camera as standard equipment.
  • The Express trim now comes with Rear View Camera, Satellite Radio Ready, and Tow Hitch as standard equipment.
  • The HFE trim now comes with Rear View Camera and Running Boards as standard equipment.

2018 Ram 1500 trims

Curious how Ram 1500 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Tradesman

  • Includes 17-inch steel wheels, locking tailgate, heavy-duty vinyl 40/20/40 split-bench seat, six-speaker audio system, rearview monitor, and more.

  • View all RAM 1500 Tradesman in stock

Express

Big Horn/Lone Star

  • Adds 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, LED bed lighting, cloth 40/20/40 bench seat, 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support, dual-zone automatic temperature control, and more.

  • View all RAM 1500 Big Horns in stock

Harvest

  • Adds 17-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, tow hooks, high-back bucket seats with full-length floor center console, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and more.

  • View all RAM 1500 Harvests in stock

Sport

  • Adds 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, power-adjustable pedals, Sport LED taillamps, and more.

  • View all RAM 1500 Sports in stock

Night

  • Adds 20-inch black semi-gloss aluminum wheels, black Ram tailgate badge, black grille surround with black mesh insert, rearview auto-dimming mirror with microphone, instrument panel with bezels, and more.

  • View all RAM 1500 Nights in stock

Rebel

  • Adds fold-flat load floor storage, 17-inch unique Rebel aluminum wheels with matte black pockets, black powder-coated front and rear bumpers, rear parking assistance system, performance hood, and more.

  • View all RAM 1500 Rebels in stock

Laramie

  • Adds 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, bi-functional projector chrome headlamps, chrome grille with chrome wave inserts, six-way power-adjustable passenger seat, 10-speaker audio system with subwoofer, and more.

  • View all RAM 1500 Laramies in stock

Laramie Longhorn

  • Adds 20-inch polished aluminum wheels with accent-color inserts, leather bucket seats, wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual rear exhaust with chrome tips, heated second-row seats, and more.

  • View all RAM 1500 Laramie Longhorns in stock

Limited

  • Adds 20-inch polished aluminum wheels with gray inserts, air suspension system, chrome wheel-to-wheel side steps, luxury door trim panels, rear-window defroster, and more.

  • View all RAM 1500 Limiteds in stock

Ram 1500 photos

5 reasons to buy the 2018 Ram 1500

1. Many body styles and bed lengths

2018 Ram 1500: Reviews, Photos, and More: Reasons to Buy #1 | CarMax

Whether you need a full-size pickup to transport your work crew or family, the 2018 Ram 1500 offers multiple body styles and bed lengths to cater to your needs. Base models start with a Regular Cab with seating for three passengers and the choice of a standard six-foot-four-inch or an extended eight-foot bed for larger loads. 2018 Ram 1500 Crew Cab and Quad Cab models both feature six-passenger cabins, but you'll get more legroom in the latter with 40.3 inches versus 34.7 inches in the Quad Cab. The Crew Cab also offers the choice of a six-foot-four-inch bed or a shorter five-foot-seven-inch bed for smaller loads, while the Quad Cab is equipped with the standard six-foot four-inch bed.

2. Cushioned ride

2018 Ram 1500: Reviews, Photos, and More: Reasons to Buy #2 | CarMax

Unlike other full-size trucks that use a leaf-spring suspension for the rear axle, the 2018 Ram 1500 is equipped with a sophisticated rear coil spring suspension, which delivers car-like handling for lasting passenger comfort. The Ram 1500 also offers an Active-Level Four-Corner Air Suspension System (standard on Rebel and Limited; optional on all other trims), which provides a plusher ride, especially when the bed is empty or when the truck is driving over rugged terrain.

3. Powertrain options

2018 Ram 1500: Reviews, Photos, and More: Reasons to Buy #3 | CarMax

The 2018 Ram 1500 offers three potent engine options to suit a range of performance requirements. The base is a 305-hp 3.6L V6 or you can opt for a 395-hp 5.7L V8, which is standard on Laramie Longhorn and Limited trims or optional on all other models. The V8 is especially useful for big jobs with an estimated 10,620-lb towing capacity, when properly equipped.

If you log a lot of miles on the road, the optional 420-hp 3.0L V6 turbodiesel returns an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined.
Regardless of the engine you choose, all 2018 Ram 1500s use an eight-speed automatic transmission with 2WD or 4WD.

4. Off-road capability

2018 Ram 1500: Reviews, Photos, and More: Reasons to Buy #4 | CarMax

The Ram 1500 has a reputation of being a workhorse around the job site, but it's also a skilled off-roader. The 2018 Ram 1500 Rebel embraces less-traveled roads on 17-inch aluminum wheels. A standard Active-Level Four-Corner Air Suspension System has a one-inch height increase, allowing the truck to climb over challenging terrain with confidence. Equipped with a 3.6L V6 or a 5.7L V8 with 2WD or available 4WD, the 2018 Ram 1500 Rebel also includes an anti-spin rear differential to provide more grip in low traction conditions.

5. Top tech

2018 Ram 1500: Reviews, Photos, and More: Reasons to Buy #5 | CarMax

The Ram 1500 is more than just a full-size truck for tackling large jobs—it delivers the latest technology to enhance your drive. The 2018 base model includes a six-speaker audio system, USB port, and auxiliary input, but stepping up to the Lone Star/Big Horn unlocks Uconnect® 4C with an 8.4-inch display. Harvest, Laramie, and Longhorn models add even more feature content with a navigation system. For an immersive audio experience, the 2018 Ram 1500 includes a 10-speaker sound system with a subwoofer and 12-channel amplifier on Laramie and higher trims (Quad and Crew Cab models). Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto compatibility are available as packaged content.

Similar vehicles

If you're interested in the 2018 Ram 1500, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.

Image of Toyota Tundra

The Toyota Tundra is a full-size truck with standard V8 power. 2017–2021 Tundra SR and SR5 trims use a 310-hp 4.6L V8 with 327 lb-ft of torque while Limited and higher models gain a 5.7L V8 with 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque. If you haul toys or equipment, the 5.7L delivers strong performance with an estimated towing capacity of 10,200 lbs when properly equipped.

Standard features on the 2017–2019 Tundra SR include:

  • 18-inch styled steel wheels

  • 40/20/40 split fold-down front bench seat

  • Rearview monitor

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.Get Pre-qualified

Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

The 2018 Ram 1500 is a truck that is loved by many customers. Customers like the power of the V8 engine, the comfort of the interior, and the snazzy look of the exterior.
3
1
2
Above Average

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 1500

Ram 1500 features and specs

Tradesman 2WD 2D Regular Cab

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Cruise Control
  • Flex Fuel Vehicle
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Rear View Camera
  • Side Airbags
  • Tow Hitch
  • Traction Control
  • Vinyl Seats
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Bed Cover
  • Bed Liner
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Cloth Seats
  • Flex Fuel Vehicle
  • Long Bed
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Running Boards
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Tow Hitch

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

3.6L

Horsepower

305

Torque (ft-lbs)

269

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

26

Wheelbase

120"

Overall length

209"

Width

79.4"

Height

74.6"

Leg room

F 41"

Head room

F 39.9"

Front tires

P265/70SR17

Rear tires

P265/70SR17

Seating capacity

3

Max towing capacity

502/5020 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2018 Ram 1500 FAQ

More about the 2018 Ram 1500

2018 Ram 1500: Reviews, Photos, and More: Color Options | CarMax

Exterior colors:

  • Blue Streak Pearl

  • Bright Silver Metallic

  • Bright White

  • Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl

  • Delmonico Red Pearl

  • Flame Red

  • Granite Crystal Metallic

  • Maximum Steel Metallic

  • Pearl White

  • True Blue Pearl RV Match

  • Walnut Brown Metallic

Interior colors:

  • Black

  • Canyon Brown

  • Canyon Brown/Frost

  • Cattle Tan

  • Diesel Gray

  • Frost/Indigo

  • Light Frost Beige

  • Radar Red/Black

Interior details

2018 Ram 1500 Regular Cab models provide seating for three passengers, while Quad Cab and Crew Cab models seat up to six passengers. Vinyl upholstery comes standard on Tradesman and Express trims and all other trims include cloth upholstery, except the Laramie Longhorn and Limited, which feature leather-trimmed seating. Laramie Longhorn and Limited models include a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel with genuine wood accents and audio control buttons. The 2018 Ram 1500 interior also provides 41 inches of front-seat legroom, while Quad Cab and Crew Cab models provide generous rear-seat legroom with 34.7 inches and 40.3 inches, respectively.

Child seat details

The 2018 Ram 1500 Quad Cab and Crew Cab models can fit up to three car seats in the rear row. This includes LATCH car seats, infant car seats, rear-facing convertible car seats, forward-facing convertible car seats, and booster car seats. Rear-facing convertible and infant seats are easy to install and provide plenty of room in the second row without moving the front seat forward.

Performance

The 2018 Ram 1500 offers three powerful engines: a 305-hp 3.6L V6 (standard on all trims except Laramie Longhorn and Limited), a 395-hp 5.7L V8 (standard on Laramie Longhorn and Limited; optional on all other trims), and a 420-hp 3.0L V6 turbo diesel (optional on all trims). All models pair to an eight-speed automatic transmission with 2WD or 4WD. The 3.0L turbo diesel with 2WD delivers the highest gas mileage with an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined.

If pulling power is a top priority, the Ram 1500 can tow an estimated 10,620 lbs with the 5.7L V8 when properly equipped.

Emissions

  • According to EPA estimates, the 4WD 2018 Ram 1500 5.7L engine's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 527 grams per mile.

  • According to EPA estimates, the 2WD 2018 Ram 1500 5.7L engine's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 513 grams per mile.

  • According to EPA estimates, the 4WD 2018 Ram 1500 3.6L engine's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 475 grams per mile.

  • According to EPA estimates, the 2WD 2018 Ram 1500 3.6L engine's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 450 grams per mile.

  • According to EPA estimates, the 4WD 2018 Ram 1500 3.0L engine's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 465 grams per mile.

  • According to EPA estimates, the 2WD 2018 Ram 1500 3.0L engine's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 448 grams per mile.

Research other vehicles



* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

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.