2020 Ram 1500 Classic Review
2020 Ram 1500 Classic Review
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Used 1500 Classic for sale
Appraise This CarRam 1500 Classic model years
Ram 1500 Classic types
- Quad Cab
- Crew Cab
- Regular Cab
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2020 Ram 1500 Classic Review
byReese Counts
Vehicle Test Editor
Reese Counts has worked in the automotive industry since he started as an intern at Edmunds in 2015. He has written or edited thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Reese is a vehicle test editor at Edmunds and has also contributed to Autoblog. Reese has also been featured on Yahoo! Finance, Engadget and AOL reviewing cars and covering automotive technology, auto shows and more. Reese learned to drive in his father's C4 Chevrolet Corvette and now owns his grandfather's 1999 Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG. A love for cars runs deep in his family.
Pros
- Smooth-riding suspension provides plenty of comfort
- Quiet and attractive cabin
- Smooth and efficient eight-speed automatic transmission
Cons
- Limited availability of features compared to current 2020 Ram
- Missing many of the latest driver assist technologies
- Limited selection of trim levels
What's new
- Trim levels pared down to Tradesman, Express and Warlock
- Part of the fourth Ram 1500 generation introduced for 2009
Overview
You probably know that the 2020 Ram 1500 is a full-size light-duty pickup truck. But what's this 1500 Classic all about? Well, when Ram introduced its fully redesigned 1500 last year it decided to keep building the previous-generation truck at the same time. That means you're going to find the old truck, now called the Classic, alongside the new Ram 1500 on dealer lots.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Ram 1500 Classic Tradesman 2dr Regular Cab LB (3.6L 6cyl 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$212/mo for 1500 Classic Tradesman
1500 Classic Tradesman
vs
$257/mo
Avg. Large Truck
Why bother with the 1500 Classic? Well, it's sort of a budget model. It has a lower base price than any version of the new model, but it's also unavailable with many of the new truck's features and equipment. Compared to the latest offerings from Ford and Chevrolet, the Ram 1500 Classic looks and feels dated. That said, if you're in the market for a relatively affordable utility vehicle and don't mind the lack of bells and whistles, the 1500 Classic is definitely worth a look.
Which 1500 Classic does Edmunds recommend?
While you could step up to the Express or Warlock model, we suggest going with the base-level Tradesman. It packs in a ton of utility for the price and is offered in the widest array of cab and bed configurations. You can get it with nearly as many optional features as the other two trims too.
2020 Ram 1500 Classic models
The 2020 Ram 1500 Classic is available in three trim levels: Tradesman, Express and Warlock. There are three cab configurations (regular cab, crew cab and Quad Cab) and three bed lengths (5 feet 7 inches, 6 feet 4 inches, and 8 feet) available, though certain combinations are limited to specific trims.
Each 1500 Classic is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 (305 horsepower, 269 lb-ft) paired to an eight-speed automatic. A 5.7-liter V8 (395 hp, 410 lb-ft) is optional on all three trims. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and four-wheel drive is optional.
Tradesman
The base comes standard with features such as:
- A 40/20/40-split vinyl bench front seat (cloth is optional)
- Vinyl floors
- A Class IV receiver hitch with integrated trailer wiring
- Power heated mirrors
- 2 USB ports
Express
The midlevel trim adds on:
- Body-colored exterior trim
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Tinted glass windows
- Carpeted floors
Warlock
Going with this top-grade trim gets you:
- 20-inch black-gloss alloy wheels
- Black trim with Ram logo grille
- Rear sliding window
- Projector headlights with LED foglights
- A 5-inch touchscreen display
Notable options for the Ram 1500 Classic include:
- A limited-slip differential to help improve traction
- Various axle gear ratios
- Cargo bins in the bed sides (RamBox)
- An 8.4-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- A tow package with tow mirrors and a trailer brake control
Is Ram's Off-Road Lineup Missing Out?
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
4.5 out of 5 stars4.5/5Excellent
#1 out of 19 among Fullsize Trucks
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Ram 1500 Classic from 2008-2022.$522/yr
vs. $752/yr
for Average Fullsize Truck
for Average Fullsize Truck
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).0.4x/yr
vs. 0.98x/yr
for Average Fullsize Truck
for Average Fullsize Truck
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).8.1%
vs. 19.9%
for Average Fullsize Truck
for Average Fullsize Truck
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 Ram 1500 Classic.
5 star(67%)
4 star(18%)
3 star(5%)
2 star(3%)
1 star(7%)
60 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
New full size truck owner
SSBroly, 01/23/2020
2019 Ram 1500 Classic Big Horn 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.6 ft SB (5.7L 8cyl 8A)
I purchased my 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Big Horn as a fleet vehicle with 14k miles on it. It had everything I wanted except bed liner. I later decided to get the side steps for the kids and wife easier access. Not an ad, just trying to help others in similar situation. Purchased side steps from carid.com saved about $450, and has lifetime warranty. Bed liner from a local shop also with … lifetime warranty for about $600 less than if dealer installed.
I wanted to address the only 1 star review on here regarding dash brightness...you can dim the dash lights on the left side under the headlights switch. There is a slide knob/gear (?) Which turns on interior lights. If you turn it the other way, it dims the lights.
The only 3 star review commented on no radio controls on the steering wheel. I found them after a week of ownership. The volume controls are on the BACK right side of wheel and the skip controls are on the back of the left side of wheel. Weird I know lol!
**Back to my review**
I have used this truck to tow my trailer camper (6400 pounds, 23ft long) on three different occasions. ~6.5 mpg. The 2nd trip I was towing in 45 mph winds and it handled it like a champ. At 55 mph driving over an open bridge in gusty winds I felt in control the whole time.
Plenty of room for my family (wife, 4 yo son, 2 yo daughter with car seats).
Cabin is very quiet, comfortable and upscale. Lots of cupholders and storage, including two coolers in the floor in the back.
The engine is powerful, easy to safely merge, pass etc. Easily handled my camper.
Overall amazing truck! I have only owned smaller trucks (1998 Ranger, 1996 Ranger, 2001 S10, 2002 S10 and 1984 Mazda B2000) so I was worried about parking it, driving around in traffic (narrow streets etc), but it is a breeze. There are sensors on the front and back to help along with a very detailed back up camera.
CONS:
Gas mileage as expected, but not as bad as I imagined (15-18 mpg). I must say I do have the off road tires installed by the prior owner so obviously that is a big factor. Not really complaining, just worst than my little 2012 civic lol. Duh right?!?
SiriusXM radio was initially AMAZING however since the trial period ended and I chose not to continue it ($16.99 a month), I have been getting letters from SiriusXM with deals and promotionals ever since at least twice a week. Kind of annoying. I downloaded free apps on phone, sync on bluetooth and listen for free =) If you want it, let it lapse and not respond at first and you will get promotions for 6 months free etc afterwards.
***
I have had the truck for about 5k miles so far. I will update after a year. Good luck out there!
5 out of 5 stars
Checks every box
Juan, 08/15/2019
2019 Ram 1500 Classic Big Horn 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.6 ft SB (5.7L 8cyl 8A)
I wanted to all of my consolidated my vehicles into one that does it all. Needed to combine the utility if my old avalanche with the performance of my focus ST while still being able to haul the kids around comfortably. I looked at the new Sierra and Silverado and was impressed with the performance but not the price. Finally settled on the RAM 1500. It has more space than I'll ever need, … good tow rating and that HEMI really gets going when you put your foot down. I average about 20 MPG as long as I drive sensibly the the ride quality is amazing. It did everything the new Sierra offered for less. Strongly recommend the 8.4 in infotainment system.
*12k mile update* I've noticed a little vibration coming from the driver and front passenger door panels while listening to music with heavy base. The front passenger window control panel pops out weirdly easily and may be to blame. Android auto is awesome when it works but I've had more than a few days where it refuses to connect to my phone. The Uconnect is a neat gimmick but that also stops working quite often (app disconnects you). Lastly there seems to be a little rust forming on the lip around the right fog light of my chrome bumper. That last one is ridiculous and I'll have them look at it next week during my inspection. I don't regret buying the truck, I'll continue to love my time with it. Hopefully the rust issue is addressed and doesn't come back for many years
5 out of 5 stars
Dodge’s best kept secret
Nick, 01/20/2019
2019 Ram 1500 Classic Big Horn 4dr Crew Cab 5.6 ft SB (5.7L 8cyl 8A)
Just bought a Classic 1500. This last run of the 4th gen 1500 will go down as Dodges best kept secret. They are giving these trucks away at a steal of a price. The Big Horn I got is equipped just perfectly for a truck. I don’t need a crazy fancy truck with tons of extras that jack the price north of 50K. I think the gen 4 1500 is the best looking Dodge ever made, I’m not a fan of the … looks of the gen 5. Plus, this last run of trucks is made in USA!
5 out of 5 stars
2019 RAM Classic 1500 Big Horn 4x4
John, 09/05/2019
2019 Ram 1500 Classic Big Horn 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.6 ft SB (5.7L 8cyl 8A)
This is my first RAM(Always been a Ford Guy). I LOVE this truck! I looked at Ford and Chevy and both were in the $45-$50K range for a well appointed truck. I discovered the Classic at a local dealer and decided to take a test drive...WOW! This truck so smooth and quite even at highway speeds. It handles fantastic and has plenty of go with the 395 HP Hemi V8 and a great exhaust note. … THESE Classics are a steal. I bought mine for $34.5K(Sticker was $49,451) out the door. They even threw in an additional year of Bumper to Bumper warranty, Now I have 48 months instead of 36 months. They also included 4 years free maintenance and oil changes. This truck has tons of options like:Power drivers seat, Power lumbar support, Heated Seats, Heated steering wheel, Heated and power folding side view mirrors, LED entry and cargo bed lights, Power sliding rear window, 8.4" Touch panel display with U-Connect, Climate control, Auto Volume volume speed control, Voice Activated controls, Rear window defroster, Auto dimming rear view mirror, and 20" Chrome wheels.The truck only has 400 miles on it, But I am averaging 19.5 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. I am sure that will increase once broken in. If your in the market for a truck...I would jump on one of these ASAP!
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 Ram 1500 Classic, so we've included reviews for other years of the 1500 Classic since its last redesign.
2020 1500 Classic Highlights
Quad Cab
Tradesman
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $32,105 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 20 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $212/month |
Seating | 6 seats |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Max Towing Capacity | 10,510 lbs. |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the 1500 Classic models:
- Electronic Stability Control
- Helps maintain control of the truck in low-traction conditions. Uses the brakes to mitigate wheelslip and trailer sway.
- Side Curtain Airbags
- Helps mitigate side-impact injury to the driver and passengers by deploying from the area above the windows.
- ParkView and ParkSense
- Warns the driver through visual and audible cues when the truck is getting close enough to potentially impact an object.
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5PassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover19.8%
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