Car Review: Ram looks to gain some lost ground with updated 2025 Ram 1500

The updated Ram 1500 sports a more aggressive look with a new grill design. The Warlock model, a less pricey trim level, still comes with big wheels and all-terrain tires for that tough look truck style. (WTOP/Mike Parris)

Pickup trucks are as popular as ever. Ram has seen a rough patch lately with lower sales than the usual rosy picture. So, for 2025 Ram receives major updates to get back in the game.

The biggest change: the Hemi V-8 has been axed. Now, there are several six-cylinder engines to pick from. And all is not lost because these engines pack a bigger punch than the previous V-8.

My vehicle came with a 3.0L twin turbo in-line six-cylinder engine with 420 horsepower. It provides good power and will please many buyers.

Need more power? Try the Ram 1500 models with 540 horsepower. But know, his engine can’t match the old V-8 growl and sound. While this truck will work without complaint, it is also willing and happy to treat riders to a compliant ride, even if you don’t choose a pricier trim level version.

I found my Warlock model, a trim level that’s a bit easier on the wallet, pleasant on the road. Its size can be a bit daunting in parking lots and tighter spaces though.

Styling can make or break a truck or any vehicle for that matter. The Ram 1500 has a more distinguished look than before. The new-look front end features a bold grill design that has a different look depending on the trim level. The Warlock model’s blacked-out Ram grill and hood with power bulges give a sportier look to this work truck. Out back, dual large exhaust pipes are cut into the rear bumper and two pull down bed steps allow easier entry up into the large cargo bed.

Another strong point is the Ram 1500’s interior and for 2025 the revised model is very spacious. While the Warlock model does not have luxury car trimming on Ram 1500 versions, it’s still nicer than other trucks it competes against. The front bench seat will fit three. Back seat riders have ample head and leg room, fitting three passengers with room to spare.

Cost: $46,875; as tested $58,240

MPG: 17 mpg city; 24 mpg highway. I managed 19.4 mpg in 453 miles of driving.

Options: $295 Forged blue metallic exterior paint; $4,690 customer preferred package 21B; $945 bed utility group; $550 tri-fold tonneau cover; $195 3.92 rear axle ratio; $ 2,895 3.0L I6-Hurricane SO Twin-Turbo

Safety: Ready-alert braking; full speed forward collision warn plus; adaptive cruise control with stop and go; lane departure alert warning plus; automatic high beams; parallel and perpendicular park assist with stop; ParkSense front and rear with stop; advanced brake assist; lane keep assist; blind spot and cross path detection

Things to know: The Ram 1500 gets upgrades in its 2025 makeover to help it compete better with GM and Ford. No more V-8 — a more fuel-efficient twin-turbo six-cylinder engine fills the void.

Pros:

  • Smooth and hushed ride for a full-size pickup.
  • Interior is spacious for front and rear seat riders.
  • New, smaller turbo engines provide power of V-8 with better MPG.

Cons:

  • Very pricey in higher trim levels.
  • Feels big and heavy in the corners.
  • Some buyers will miss the V-8 sound and grunt.

Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

© 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

Federal News Network Logo
Log in to your WTOP account for notifications and alerts customized for you.

Sign up