2018 Ram 1500 Review
2018 Ram 1500 Review





+213
Used 1500 for sale
Appraise This CarRam 1500 model years
Ram 1500 types
- Crew Cab
- Regular Cab
- Quad Cab
- Diesel
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Edmunds' Expert Review

byCalvin Kim
Vehicle Test Engineer
Calvin Kim is an automotive journalist at Edmunds.Pros
- Smooth-riding suspension provides plenty of comfort
- Quiet and attractive cabin
- Smooth and efficient eight-speed automatic transmission
- Rebel 1500 off-road package offers extra capability
Cons
- Maximum tow rating falls shy of those of class leaders
- Diesel engine's upfront cost is significant
- Missing some of the latest driver assist technologies
What’s new
The 2018 Ram 1500 will be available in a top-level Limited Tungsten edition and a mid-tier Harvest edition. Rebel models can be ordered with leather interior, while a rearview camera is standard on all models. Ram has also updated the 8.4-inch infotainment system with new functionality this year. The 2018 1500 also has a new HFE trim level and expanded availability of the 3.0-liter diesel engine.
Vehicle overview
Though the 2018 Ram 1500 is one of the oldest designs on sale in the segment, it's easy to make the case that the Ram is still our favorite light-duty pickup. One of the primary reasons is the Ram's smooth ride, which is best in class. It comes about from the Ram's class-exclusive coil-spring rear suspension and available self-leveling air suspension.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Ram 1500 Tradesman 2dr Regular Cab SB (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 $3.57 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$217/mo for 1500 Tradesman
1500 Tradesman
vs
$267/mo
Avg. Large Truck
But that's not all we like. Another Ram strength is its excellent engine lineup. Although the Ram comes in below the class-leading towing numbers by a few hundred pounds, it's still abundantly capable. Its standard engine is a strong but efficient V6, and there's also an optional V8 with plenty of towing power and a turbocharged diesel V6 that returns excellent fuel economy in the class.
Once you've picked an engine, several variants are available for the Ram, from the bare-bones Tradesman to the top-of-the-line Limited and even the off-road-ready Rebel. The Ram also boasts a modern interior, an easy-to-use infotainment system, and lots of opportunity for even more customization.
Of course, competing trucks aren't exactly slouches. But even as the old guy of the group, the Ram is still standing strong.
Notably, we picked the 2018 Ram 1500 (including the Ram 1500 Diesel) as one of Edmunds' Best Pickup Trucks for 2018.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
8.4 / 10The 2018 Ram 1500's unique coil-spring rear suspension gives it a smooth ride without compromising on hauling or towing capability. Distinctive variants such as the Rebel and Night edition appeal to those who use their truck just as much for recreation as for work.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our drive of the Ram 1500 Laramie Crew Cab (turbo 3.0L V6 diesel | 8-speed automatic | 4WD).
NOTE: Since this test was conducted in 2014, the current Ram 1500 has received some revisions, primarily around a new infotainment system and updates to trims and packages. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's Ram 1500.
Scorecard
Overall | 8.4 / 10 |
Driving | 8.5 |
Comfort | 8.5 |
Interior | 8.5 |
Utility | 8.5 |
Driving
8.5The diesel's strong suit is torque (it has only 240 hp), so the strength of this powertrain shines brightest when it's towing or hauling. Combine that with the excellent steering and handling of the Ram 1500 chassis, and you've got a winner.
Acceleration
7.5The Ram 1500 diesel won't win many drag races. It takes 9 seconds to get to 60 mph. But that's not the point. Its immense torque (420 lb-ft) gives it a huge advantage when towing, hauling or climbing grades.
Braking
8.0Our test truck stopped from 60 mph in 135 feet, similar to other trucks with all-season tires. The pedal feels reassuring, but it isn't overly abrupt — a good trait when towing or hauling.
Steering
9.0The steering has a nice, direct feel and linearity. There's a crisp and predictable response with good feedback, even with a heavy load. The Ram 1500 goes arrow-straight down the highway, too. The top of the pickup class.
Handling
9.0Body roll is reined in nicely. Good cornering stability, even when the trailer is wagging in the wind. Credit the coil-spring rear suspension's lateral link for that.
Drivability
9.5Shifting is nearly imperceptible with the eight-speed automatic. The rpm jumps are small, and the diesel has more than enough torque to bridge the gaps. About as good as it gets for trucks.
Off-road
The EcoDiesel's smooth torque delivery and long range are pluses when you want to get away from it all. Its standard coil-spring suspension provides good articulation, so the wheels can always get power through its locking differentials.
Comfort
8.5Optional air springs take the edge off the ride when the truck's unladen, but even the standard coil springs beat the competition. The cabin is admirably quiet compared to other pickups, and the rear half of the crew cab is every bit as pleasant as the front.
Seat comfort
8.5The seats are supportive and well-shaped; we never tired of them, even after extended periods. That statement applies equally to the crew cab's rear seats.
Ride comfort
9.0The standard rear coil springs (versus the typical leaf) on the Ram 1500 allow for the substitution of air springs all around. Our truck had this groundbreaking option, which makes for a plush ride over broken ground.
Noise & vibration
7.5Road and wind noise levels are admirably restrained. The diesel does emit a bit of signature noise when accelerating, but it quiets down when cruising at steady speeds.
Climate control
The Ram 1500 is available with dual-zone automatic climate control. And it is easy to use, with the temperature information requiring just a glance at the screen.
Interior
8.5Excellent ergonomics and front cabin airiness. The capable Uconnect infotainment system practically explains itself. The crew cab provides excellent rear seat space, more than enough for full-grown adults to settle in for long trips.
Ease of use
9.0The air-conditioning and touchscreen radio controls are as good as any, and the driving position is comfy. The steering wheel buttons are small, but they call up an amazing array of data.
Getting in/getting out
8.0The front seat access is good, partially thanks to handy grab handles on the front roof pillars. The wide-opening rear doors offer similar handles. The only issue is the 4x4 cab height, but all competing trucks share this basic trait.
Roominess
8.5The front cabin is open, and the styling makes the dash feel airy, not monolithic. The crew cab's rear seat offers no-compromise full-size accommodations. Everyone onboard is a winner.
Visibility
8.0Visibility out the front and to the sides is quite good. The large mirrors help. The crew cab's longer rear windows aid blind-spot visibility. The optional backup camera on our truck is well worth the cost.
Quality
9.0Exterior gaps and paint quality are good. Inside, solid materials and design choices give off a premium vibe. The quietness suggests there's no scrimping in unseen places.
Utility
8.5The EcoDiesel's approximate 9,000-pound tow rating isn't tops but is still quite stout. And it burns far less fuel, towing or not. The range is unmatched. In the cabin, there are generously sized storage pockets in all four doors. The rear seat bottoms fold up to reveal a flat surface.
Technology
Ram's standard audio system doesn't support much in terms of smartphone connectivity, but opt for the 8.4-inch system and you get complete integration with Android or Apple smartphones.
Which 1500 does Edmunds recommend?
Thanks to buyer demand, trucks can be everything from economical to luxurious. Getting one that best suits your wants and needs is paramount, and the 2018 Ram 1500 gives you a broad range of options. We'd have to go with the Rebel, thanks to its off-road performance and street comfort. Just make sure to throw in the Protection and Luxury packages
2018 Ram 1500 models
The 2018 Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup available in multiple body styles and bed lengths and with three engine options. The regular cab (two doors) can seat three and is available with either a standard bed (6 feet 4 inches) or an extended bed (8 feet). The Quad Cab (four doors) can seat six and comes only with the standard bed. The crew cab (also four doors, but bigger rear doors) increases rear-seat legroom and is available with either a short bed (5 feet 7 inches) or the standard bed.
There are 11 standard trim levels: Tradesman, HFE EcoDiesel, Express, Big Horn/Lone Star, Sport, Night,, Lone Star Silver, Laramie, Rebel, Laramie Longhorn and Limited. A variety of special-edition models exist, one of which is the Harvest.
Most trims come standard with a 3.6-liter V6 (305 hp, 269 lb-ft), while Rebel, Laramie Longhorn and Limited variants come standard with a 5.7-liter V8 (395 hp, 410 lb-ft). For fans of diesel torque, a 3.0-liter diesel V6 (240 hp, 420 lb-ft) will also be available on all but Express, Night and Rebel trims (delayed availability). Of course, the V8 is optional on all Ram 1500s, save for the HFE trim. And all three engines are paired with an eight-speed transmission and can be had in either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
The Tradesman is the workhorse of the lineup, with minimal luxury accoutrements and amenities. Just about all of its exterior parts that aren't metal are black, but it does come with a Class IV hitch receiver, a spray-in bedliner and cruise control. Like the Tradesman, the Express is also a worker's truck, but it deletes the hitch and bedliner (they are offered as options) and adds body-colored exterior trim, carpeting and 20-inch wheels. Both have the most flexibility with bed and cab configurations and come standard with the V6.
The HFE EcoDiesel is a work truck that's outfitted with the 3.0-liter diesel engine and is intended to be the fuel economy standout of the lineup. It's available only in a Quad Cab configuration and comes with few features and fewer options.
But trucks just aren't about working, so the Big Horn (called Lone Star in Texas) adds more features such as a 110-volt power outlet, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system dubbed Uconnect Access. Upgraded cloth seating with a power-adjustable driver's seat and leather-wrapped steering wheel round things out.
Sport and Night models are similar and bring a street-truck flair to the lineup with 20-inch wheels, bucket seats, projector headlights, LED interior lighting and adjustable pedals. While Sport models have body-colored exterior pieces, Night models are in black, with black wheels to match. Regular-cab, rear-wheel-drive Sport models are referred to as the R/T and come with 22-inch wheels, a sport hood and a blacked-out grille with R/T badging.
New-for-2018 Harvest trims are available in two unique colors and have additional ground clearance, all-terrain tires, black tubular side steps, skid plates and tow hooks, and a unique chrome grille as well as chrome bumpers and exterior trim.
The Laramie is similar to the Big Horn but also has auto-dimming mirrors, wood trim, heated and ventilated leather front seats with driver-seat memory settings, and a 10-speaker audio system.
The Laramie Longhorn (crew-cab V8 only) is the perfect blend of luxury and work truck. Added features include keyless entry and ignition, remote start, front and rear parking sensors, wood interior trim, upgraded leather upholstery and a navigation system.
At the top of the range, the Limited is only available with the V8 and adds monotone paint schemes, side-step bars, automatic windshield wipers, automatic high beams, a self-leveling air suspension and even fancier stitched leather upholstery.
The Ram is also available in an off-road-oriented variant called the Rebel. On the outside, you'll find features similar to those on the Sport R/T, but the Rebel has 17-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, black fender flares, Bilstein shock absorbers, tow hooks, LED foglights and keyless entry. The Rebel's interior is similar to that of the Sport, though with a few more features.
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2018 Ram 1500.
5 star(55%)
4 star(34%)
3 star(0%)
2 star(3%)
1 star(8%)
38 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4 out of 5 stars
Will never own a Car again, Trucks rule!
Anthony Reaves, 02/12/2019
2018 Ram 1500 Lone Star 4dr Quad Cab SB (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
I traded in my 2014 Honda CRV and got a great value for it. I brought this truck because of the rebates and discounts ($12,000.00). I had never owned a truck before this. I have been buying cars since 1977, and this was an eye opener. The Ram 1500 that I got is a little basic, not equipped with many Technology options. It does have bluetooth, pretty nice sound system. With that … exception, this is a great truck. In Michigan we have had back to back Ice and snow storms, and this truck has not slipped one time. I had thought I was having a problem with the transmission, and returned to dealer, the Service Tech at Cueter Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM took an hour to demonstrate to me how to use the truck correctly. The next RAM will be better equipped but I will be a truck owner forever. One other note, there is not a lot of storage space in my truck.
5 out of 5 stars
What a Truck!
Jason Kleiger , 02/17/2018
2018 Ram 1500 Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.3 ft SB (5.7L 8cyl 8A)
I have the short bed Laramie CC with the 5.7 V8 4x4. There was not an exact match for purposes of the review on Edmunds. This truck has the softest and quietest ride. It is unbelievable. Chrysler really thought of everything when putting together this truck. This isn’t even the Limited, but I have not had one of those “awww man, I wish it had the _____.” Mine doesn’t have rambox or the … air suspension, but I can’t imagine the suspension can be anymore smooth yet agile than it already is. As for the rambox, I’m sure it’s a nice feature, but there is plenty of space to store things securely inside, even in those little boxes built into the floor. This truck is smart - it knows the temperature enough to decide whether to turn on the heated seats/steering wheel, or turn on the ventilated seats. It also knows whether to turn on the defroster and the heated mirrors. Apple car play is amazing. So much easier than using the older Uconnect systems. Even something so passive as the wheel to wheel steps are brilliantly engineered. They’re at the perfect height to get in and out of the truck (without muddying up your pants). The design of the truck (although dated, and slated for a remodel for the MY 2019), is still gorgeous. I have the Delmonico Red, and the paint is amazing, and the truck still has that “tough” look. Call me gaudy, but I love all the chrome.
The only knock on the truck is that sometimes the steering wheel controls have a spasm and won’t work. It usually corrects itself after turning off the car and coming back to the car a few minutes later. If that’s my only complaint, this truck is simply amazing. Like another reviewer said, gas mileage sucks, but I didn’t buy this truck to get 30+ mpg. You’re better off with the diesel or the v6 for that.
5 out of 5 stars
Great truck.
Blake, 07/06/2019
2018 Ram 1500 Tradesman 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.3 ft SB (5.7L 8cyl 8A)
I went from a 16 charger to a 2018 ram 1500 crew cab with a 5.7 hemi. I love this truck. its roomy, comfortable seats and simple controls. It has a lot of power and plenty of ground clearance. I work in rock quarries and needles to say this truck is perfect for said operations. The suspension is pretty phenomenal though. it absorbs shocks on both dirt roads and paved road pretty well. I … average about 13 MPG with a medium foot. So be forewarned it uses a lot of fuel. very reliable and comfortable truck. i love it and am happy with it.
5 out of 5 stars
34,000 Mile Review
Tyler, 08/13/2020
2018 Ram 1500 Laramie 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.3 ft SB (5.7L 8cyl 8A)
I bought the Laramie new, with the Hemi. Overall I would rate it a 4.5. I am not a brand loyal guy. It has been in the shop for repair twice. Once for a tailgate latch recall and for the navigation not working correctly. They had to replace the entire radio to fix that. Thankfully it was under warranty.
The greatest thing about this truck is the comfort. I am relaxed and enjoy the … ride. It feels great and driving down the road and with the totally adjustable seat and foot pedals you can dial it right in. The heated seats are great. The ventilated cooled seats are nice, but I doubt I would miss that on my next truck.
Maintenance has been minimal and I have done my own oil changes. According to my truck computer it looks like I could reach 10,000 miles between oil changes, but I do them at 7,000.
Removing the filter is a little messy, due to the location.
The paint is nice with no issues that stand out. I polish and correct as needed and never use car washes. The black plastic on the door is nice, because when you close the door (from outside) you touch the plastic/covering not the paint. I get compliments often on how the truck looks.
My favorite feature is the radio. I've never had a really nice radio. Keyless entry/start is fantastic.
Auto 4wd had been great with no issues in snow or mud. I have only locked it in 4wd a couple times pulling a trailer full of dirt up a hill that was muddy. I never missed a beat.
Tires are going to need replaced around 40,000. I kind of expected that coming from the manufacture. I get 20mpg in the summer and 17mpg in the winter. 89 oct fuel being used.
As far as things I don't need or care for. The mirrors don't fold in when there is ice/snow sometimes. The sun roof never gets used. The tailgate needs to drop soft. Lots of scratches above the tailgate handle due to the way it opens. I really wish I would have got the extended cab vs the double cab. I use the bed more than carry people around. Lastly, this is a big truck. When I go to stores and such I park way out for two reason, one so people do hit the truck opening their doors and two, to get myself in a position to just pull out of a space.
If I had to do it over again, I might go with the Big Horn with an extended cab, and no moon roof, to save some cash.
I hope this helps you decide if this is the right truck for you.
2018 Ram 1500 video
SPEAKER: I'm Edmund's senior writer Carlos Lago and here's a feature rundown of the 2018 Ram 1500. For 2018, the Ram 1500 gains a new tungsten top trim, a standard review camera on all models, and some improved tech features. In the full size pickup class, capabilities, features, and performance are reasonably comparable. The Ram 1500 does set itself apart from the rest with a more refined rear suspension. The downside is the Ram's tow rating, which isn't as high as class leaders. That said, it's still very capable. While your needs and budget will dictate which model is right for you, we're partial to the Rebel trim that has an optimal blend of off-road performance and on road comfort. We also suggest adding the optional protection and luxury packages. Like its rivals, the Ram is available in a regular cab, quad cab, and crew cab body styles, with either a 5 foot 7 inch bed or a 6 foot 4 inch bed. There are also a staggering 11 different trim levels to choose from. The crew cab Ram is our pick for its spacious rear seats. They're as accommodating as the front seats and are comfortable for hours on end. The Ram gets high marks for it's Uconnect infotainment system that's packed with features and it's easy to use. We also like that there are plenty of pockets and bins to store all your personal effects. The standard audio system isn't impressive but if you upgrade to the 8.4 inch touchscreen, you get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Besides having an attractive layout, the interior also makes use of better materials, giving the Ram a more premium feel compared to the competition. The Ram 1500's top competitors include the Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado 1500, and the Nissan Titan. Bottom line, the Ram 1500 certainly has its strong points, especially when it comes to interior space and materials, but this is a highly competitive segment and you can't easily ignore its chief rivals. [MUSIC PLAYING]
2018 Ram 1500 | Features Rundown
The 2018 Ram 1500's unique coil-spring rear suspension gives it a smooth ride without compromising on hauling or towing capability. Distinctive variants such as the Rebel and Night edition appeal to those who use their truck just as much for recreation as for work.
2018 1500 Highlights
Crew Cab
Tradesman
Base MSRP | $33,295 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Flex-fuel (ffv) |
Combined MPG | 20 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $217/month |
Seating | 6 seats |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Max Towing Capacity | 10,220 lbs. |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the 1500 models:
- Electronic Stability Control
- Helps maintain control of the truck in low-traction conditions. Uses the brakes to mitigate wheel slip 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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