Recently, we held a live Q&A session at the New York International Auto Show to give our readers and fans an opportunity to ask questions of RAM product and marketing specialists.
Check out this post for a transcript of the conversation to see the answers of your RAM related questions.
Q: What is the main difference between the 2012 and 2013?
A: The 2013 RAM incorporates a higher level of technology to accomplish best in class fuel economy and additional features not found in other pickups.
Q: When do you expect to have published data available to the public on models, pricing, and available features?
A: We expect data to be available in late Summer and early Fall of 2012.
Q: What is the powerplant in the new Ram?
A: The new powerplant for 2013 is the 3.6L Pentastar V6 which always comes with the TorqueFlite8 electronic 8 speed transmission. The truck will be available in the 3rd quarter of this year. We spent a lot of time on the new features of the truck which include: Active Air Suspension UConnect Access 8.4 inch Touch Screen which keeps you fully connected Keyless Enter N’ Go with Push Button Start All Secure Total Locking System
Q: What are the new features of this truck and when will it become available? Any changes to the HEMI, hp or torque?
A: The HEMI does carry over into the 2013 model. Horsepower is increased to 395HP with the addition of Electric Power Steering. The HEMI gets a huge boost to performance and fuel economy with the addition of the TorqueFlite8 later in the 2013 model year.
Q: Do we have offical #’s on the EPA mileage yet or when could we expect that late summer early fall as well? Thanks.
A: We are not releasing official fuel economy numbers at this point. They will be available after full testing is complete this Summer. However, we can tell you now we will be Best in Class in both V8 and V6.
Q: So will there also be a V8 to accompany the V6?
A: The full engine lineup for 2013 is: 4.7L V8 6 Speed 3.6L Pentastar V6 with TorqueFlite8 5.7L HEMI V8 6 Speed 5.7L HEMI V8 with TorqueFlite8 available later in the model year.
Q: A V6? I am assuming that the transmission gives it increased power?
A: The TorqueFlite8 Electronic 8 Speed Transmission does not increase the power. However, due to an ultra-low first gear and close ratio gear spacing, the Pentastar V6 will outperform the 4.7L V8 0-60 mph.
Q: Is the towing capacity similar, better, worse? And are all the New 2013 Rams going to be redesigned?
A: In all cases we are equal to or greater to last year’s towing ratings. In fact, the Pentastar V6 towing is up about 40% while significantly increasing fuel economy.
Q: Are there any changes to the interior?
A: The interior of the 2013 RAM 1500 has been significantly enhanced and upgraded. The center stack is all new including the addition of the 8.4 inch UConnect Access Touch Screen. The instrument cluster has been updated and now includes a 7 inch color display. All of the interior materials have been refreshed and upgraded to provide a best in class interior experience.
Q: What kind of Horsepower will the V6 have?
A: The Pentastar V6 will have best in class 305HP and 269 lb/ft of torque.
Q: Will there be a hookup similar to that for the iphone/ipod but for android phones?
A: The new UConnect Access System is compatible with both Apple and Android phones and includes both Bluetooth and USB connectivity. The USB port is now located in the center console.
Q: The replacing of the shifter to a knob is most ingenious. As is a keyless start system. I look forward to driving the new Ram 2013.
A: We agree. We think you’ll be very impressed with the driving experience.
Q: Will the electric power steering be standard on all trims, or just certain (uplevel) ones?
A: Electric Power Steering will be standard on all 2013 RAM 1500’s. Electric Power Steering improves fuel efficiency by reducing load on the engine and provides excellent road feel.
Q: Will you be able to pick your grill design or is this design final? Also when will these changes be seen on the 2500?
A: The new exterior design features unique grill designs for all trim levels (Express, Big Horn, Laramie, etc.).
Q: Are there any redesigns to the exterior of the RAM?
A: The 1500 will have all new grills, all new wheels, new front fascia and bumpers, and new premium bi-halogen head lamps with LED turn signals and tail lamps. There will also be several new colors for 2013.
Q: How does the addition of air ride suspension affect ride quality?
A: Today’s RAM 1500 with link-coil rear suspension already provides best in class ride and handling and is a great platform for towing. The new active air suspension takes it to another level by providing smoother unloaded ride, automatic load leveling, and 5 different customer adjustable ride heights, including 2 off-road settings one of which offers best in class ground clearance.
Q: Will all models have the active air suspension? what is the highest setting and lowest?
A: Active Air Suspension will be available on most models as a stand alone option.
Q: When will RAM produce a truck powered by natural gas?
A: As RAM announced at the NTEA show in March, we will begin producing a CNG equipped 5.7l Hemi powered 2500 Crew Cab this summer. RAM will be the only North American producer of a CNG pickup produced and completed entirely at the assembly plant.
Q: Will the new power train and transmission be available in all 1500 models?
A: The 3.6l Pentastar engine will be available up through our SLT trims. The new 5.7l with the TorqueFlite 8 transmission (available mid-year) will be a premium powertrain starting at SLT and going up to Laramie and Laramie Longhorn.
Thanks to RAM Fans for all of your great questions. And a special thanks to Dave and Marc from RAM Trucks Marketing. Follow #RamNYAuto for more updates from the New York Auto Show. Be sure to check out the new 2013 RAM 1500 in Dealerships this Fall.
