Special Ordering my first Ram 1500

[mlawrence17]

I've been driving a 1999 Toyota Tacoma since the year I got married and really don't have any complaints. But its time for something new and I've decided to jump into world of Ram. I'm in coastal South Carolina, don't have a boat, trailer or any need for 4X4. Most of the time I'll be running errands and making deliveries. I've decided to build a custom Ram 1500 Big Horn Quad Cab with a 6'4" box. What are some "pitfalls" and "can't live without" options that you all would recommend? And will I be sorry for going with a V6 eTorque vs. V8 HEMI? I've been a 21 year member of the yotatech forum, looking forward to being a part of this one!

 

[2019REBEL]

I recommend getting the LED package(headlights and tail lights)

 

[Vilas15]

Unless you do only city driving the v6 will not do any better gas mileage wise. The hemi can do real well on the highway when the MDS kicks in.

 

[Trippi]

Get the HEMI! I personally stayed away from the Level 2 packages that had all of the safety features as I knew I would just turn them off. I do miss is the backup warning - had that in my Chevy but did not need all of the breaking and lane assist to get it. I think the only thing I may have liked but didn't get was the MFT. I can see that being useful. People will love on the Ram Boxes for my lifestyle I am not missing them yet but probably something you couldn't live without once you had them.

 

[millerbjm]

I had the V6 in my 2014 and I think it's a great engine if you don't tow more than 4,000 - 5,000lbs often. That was before they added etorque. It is a very reliable engine that they use for law enforcement etc. I could get 21mpg highway pretty regular with it to in a quad cab 6.4 box 4x4. With 2wd you'll get better mpg and towing.

 

[Richard320]

I bought off the lot when a big sale was on so I ended up with a few options I didn't think I wanted, but it was still cheaper than ordering and losing the discount. Some I'm glad I have, now.

The LED lighting. If you're not old enough yet to have old people night vision, you will be before you trade in this truck, judging by how long you kept the last. Get the LED lights.

Bed Utility Group. I like the spray-in lining and the extra tiedowns because I actually haul stuff. I'm pretty sure it included the step, but if not, get the step. It's a tall step to the bumper without it. It's still a pretty good step up with it!

Level 2 package. The power lumbar support and the 115V outlets are really nice.

I got the V8 because there's a hazy thought of someday getting a trailer. And since the last time I drove a V8 regularly was in 1980 and I wanted the thrill of power. But honestly, the only time I've really used the V8 power was showing off my new truck to people when I first got it. I think the V6 would be plenty powerful for me right now. If you're used to a V6 now, you won't be missing anything. But as others have said, if you do a lot of highway miles, the V8 gets really good fuel economy if you drive sedately and use the cruise control.

 

[Royalist_Ram]

Had the V6 in a 2019 Laramie, great engine. I was getting about 21 mpg avg, mostly city. I really liked the engine, I test drove the 5.7 Hemi months later, it was noticeably more smooth and powerful, but I didn't regret my choice. I'd probably go with the Hemi now tho, but that was before the EcoDiesel was out, which I have on order as a '21 Limited. As far as as order options, if you're really set on the Quad Cab (6'4" Box), which is the best looking cab style in my opinion, make sure to get the Level 2 Equipment Group, Premium Lighting Group, Level 1 Safety Group, and Bed Utility Group for sure. If you really want, you could get the MFT, the Off-Road Group, and the Technology Group. Just know for the Fuel Economy, you'll get noticeably better fuel economy with the v6, I was getting around 21-23, and my friends with Hemi's were getting 12-15.

 

[obrien]

I would still get 4x4.. when it rains outside, nothing in the bed to press on the rear wheels it is nice to put it in 4w auto. It is a truck you never know when you gonna need it.

If you can look at Built To Serve package it will give you a lot (like LED, Off road etc) for less.

 

[Royalist_Ram]

I would still get 4x4.. when it rains outside, nothing in the bed to press on the rear wheels it is nice to put it in 4w auto. It is a truck you never know when you gonna need it.

If you can look at Built To Serve package it will give you a lot (like LED, Off road etc) for less.

^^ Def get the 4x4.