When Ram’s fifth-generation light-duty pickup truck hit the market for the 2019 model year, it took its competitors by storm. Automotive journalists and consumers alike praised its upscale good looks that still evoked its heritage, an interior worthy of a fine luxury car, and a comfortable ride courtesy of its rear coil spring suspension. With a significant refresh on deck for the 2025 model year, there aren’t too many significant changes between the 2023 and 2024 models, but we’ll outline what we do know.
Key Takeaways
- The diesel engine option is discontinued for 2024, but the two gasoline engine selections remain unchanged between 2023 and 2024.
- Even without a diesel engine option, 2024 Ram 1500s can tow a herculean 12,750 pounds and carry a payload up to 2,320 pounds when properly equipped.
- Model year 2024 is the last chance to purchase the Ram TRX muscle truck, including a special run of 4,000 “Final Edition” TRXs with special badging and colorways.
- A new Tradesman Warlock trim debuts for 2024, combining exciting off-road features with a budget-friendly price.
Is there anything new under the hood for 2024?
Fans of diesel engines will be sad to hear that it’s no longer part of the 2024 Ram 1500 lineup. In 2023 models, the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine delivered noteworthy EPA-estimated fuel efficiency of 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg out on the highway from a four-wheel drive variant.
The standard powerplant for 2024 Ram 1500s carries over from 2023. It’s a 3.6-liter V6 with 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. If that’s not enough, you can opt for the classic 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine. That mill cranks out 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque.
Note that the 3.6-liter V6 and the 5.7-liter V8 are both equipped with a 48-volt mild hybrid setup that Ram calls eTorque. Finally, the TRX off-road beast comes with a fire-breathing supercharged 6.2-liter V8 with 702 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque.
Are there differences in trim levels between 2023 and 2024 Ram 1500 trucks?
Perhaps one of the most exciting differences in the 2024 Ram 1500 versus the 2023 Ram 1500 is the introduction of a Tradesman Warlock trim level. The Warlock comes with a plethora of off-road gear including a rear-locking differential, skid plates, a 1.0-inch suspension lift, 33-inch tires, and specialized shock absorbers.
If you’re a fan of Ram’s Raptor-slaying TRX supertruck, note that 2024 promises to be the final year for that model, commemorated by an optional “Final Edition” guise. Only 4,000 Final Edition TRXs will be made and they’ll all feature special cosmetic flourishes like numbered plaques, special decals, and carbon fiber cabin accents.
The rest of the 2024 Ram lineup is as follows (all MSRPs include a mandatory destination charge):
- Tradesman: starting at $41,415
- HFE: starting at $43,055
- Big Horn/Lone Star: starting at $46,580
- Laramie: starting at $56,630
- Rebel: starting at $57,445
- Longhorn: starting at $63,390
- Limited: starting at $67,805
- TRX: starting at $98,335
Those prices represent a small increase versus the 2023 Ram 1500, which ranged from $39,900 (Tradesman) up to $66,290 (Limited) depending on the trim and options. The 2023 Ram TRX started at $87,090.
Finally, note that most Ram 1500s are available in the buyer’s choice of rear-wheel or four-wheel drive, although the off-road oriented Rebel and TRX are 4wd only.
What about technology updates for the 2024 Ram 1500?
For 2024, Ram is including a tailgate ajar warning light on all trim levels, which was previously only standard on mid- to upper- level models. This function notifies drivers when they have left their tailgate unlatched, which is helpful toward improving safety, security, and lowers the possibility of objects falling out of the bed while in transit.
As far as infotainment, 2024 Ram 1500s continue the tradition of the 2023 models by offering a 5-inch touchscreen on its most basic work-oriented trucks. Fortunately, it’s easy to upgrade to a higher quality 8.4-inch display or even a 12-inch touchscreen on some models.
Both of the larger screens are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible and Ram has thoughtfully retained conventional controls for many vehicle functions if drivers don’t wish to use the touchscreen for everything, though they certainly can.
In summary, the 2025 model year is going to bring a more significant mid-cycle refresh to the Ram 1500, so 2024 has minimal changes from 2023. It's the last call for the TRX and many enthusiasts think it could also be the last call for any V8 engine whatsoever, so if either of those factors are part of your “must have” list, come in today and talk with our professional and knowledgeable team. If the perfect truck isn’t in stock, we can get it ordered for you!