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Dodge Ram 1500 Upgrade More than Just a Facelift

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2006 Ram 1500 HEMI Gets Cylinder-Deactivation to Reduce Fuel Consumption

The Dodge Ram is the macho man of the full-size pickup truck segment. Its looks are unmistakable, its performance class-leading, and its on- and off-road capabilities are certainly nothing to scoff at.

The full-size Dodge is not only a key player, its DaimlerChryslers best selling product overall. On the list for 2006 will be more power, more comfort, and shock... better fuel economy!

Ram, the truck weve grown to know as both 24/7 workhorse and highly capable 4x4, is about to get a midlife update that brings new and unexpected characteristics to its segment. Inarguably, one of the vehicles strongest selling points for consumers (not just fleet buyers) is its visual statement. Mimicking

The full-size Dodge is not only a key player, its DaimlerChryslers best selling product overall. Mike Donoughe - Vice President - Body on frame Product Team, Chrysler Group, shown with the 2006 Ram 1500. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

The trend continues, albeit in a slightly different manner for 2006. The Rams tough appearances have adopted new, brighter headlamps with chiseled, crystal-clear lenses, and a reshaped chrome

On the list for 2006 will be more power, more comfort, and shock... better fuel economy! (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

The freshening also extends to the Rams interior, which now features a new, cleaner instrument panel, and a wide-format center console which houses several flip-open cubbyholes and storage spots. Tighter more sound resistant seals, new body mounts, and laminated

Dodge now offers the Ram with some of the same goodies youd expect from a top of the line Chrysler 300C. (Photo: DiamlerChrysler)

For those who use their trucks as both daily drivers and workhorses, Dodge now offers the Ram with some of the same goodies youd expect from a top of the line Chrysler 300C. On the list are leather trimmed, power-operated leather seats with heated cushions, UConnect handsfree phone capability with integrated Bluetooth technology, a power-operated sunroof, a rear sliding window, and a GPS navigation system that comes with a premium sound system upgrade. Like the exterior, all Rams, including the heavy-duty 2500 and 3500, off-road expert Power Wagon, SRT-10 super-truck and all-new Mega Cab models, feature these

All 2006 Rams, including the heavy-duty 2500 and 3500, off-road expert Power Wagon, SRT-10 super-truck and all-new Mega Cab models, feature the new interior modifications. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

When introduced, the Ram 1500 was one of the best handling full-size trucks on the market, endowed with the most car-like ride and handling capabilities. Since then, the market has progressed and the title has shifted hands to Fords new and improved F-150 and a few of the other American-built, Japanese branded full-sizers, such as the Nissan Titan and the steadily improved Toyota Tundra. To regain some of its edge, Dodges engineers have adopted a fully boxed frame for the Rams body-on-frame chassis. Commonplace in todays heavy-duty pickup segment, the fully boxed frame, complete with (new) ultra-rigid hydroformed components, help to increase the Ram 1500s already stiff torsional rigidity, generous carrying ability (GVWR) and impressive towing capabilities.