Model Overview: 2017 Ram 1500 Tradesman Reviews and Specs

Review of the 2017 Ram 1500 Tradesman

Trucks are popular, especially here in Texas. There's been a noticeable difference in the number of trucks seen on the road over just the last decade, and you can thank Ford, GM, and Dodge for that.

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Speaking of Dodge, the Dodge Ram is one of the most iconic pickup trucks in the country, and for good reason. Various redesigns-the two most notable taking place in '94 and '98-have made it a popular choice nationwide: muscular engines, commendable fuel economy (especially if customers opt for the diesel V6), and 'class-leading driving dynamics' truly set the Ram apart from its competitors. And the full-size, workhorse Ram 1500 Tradesman encapsulates all of these qualities.

Review of the 2017 Ram 1500 Tradesman

The Ram 1500 has three engine options, each powered by an eight-speed automatic transmission: a 3.6-liter V6, a 5.7-liter V8 (offering the most horsepower at 395 ponies), and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel EcoDiesel V6 with only 240 horsepower. Rear-wheel drive is also standard, and customers can choose a four-wheel drive setup should exploring territory off the beaten path sound particularly enticing.

Needless to say, completing everyday tasks is the Tradesman's, well, trade. Depending on trim level, it can tow between 4,210 and 10,620 pounds, which is lower than most of its class rivals, but still sufficient. Moving on, gear changes are smooth and downshifts are a breeze thanks to Ram's coil-spring rear suspension technology (other full-size pickups use a conventional leaf spring setup), and air suspension further improves ride quality by adding 1 to 2 inches of extra ground clearance. So, whether you're cruising inside the Regular, Quad, or Crew Cab body styles, rest assured, the ride will be an enjoyable one.

In terms of features, the standard model includes a front bench seat, vinyl upholstery, a tilt-only steering wheel, and cruise control. Other features to look out for in the 1500's seven other trim styles (Express, Big Horn, Sport, Rebel, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn, and Limited) include: fog lights, alloy wheels, touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth, navigation, and keyless entry, among others. And if 5'7' of cargo bed length isn't adequate, take your pick between 8' and 6'4'.

2017 Ram 1500 Tradesman Specs (Regular Cab)

• Engine: 3.6-liter V-6
• Trim: Carrera Coupe
• Class: Luxury Performance Car
• Horsepower: 305 @ 6,400 rpm
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic w/OverDrive
• Body Style: Truck
• Drivetrain: RWD
• Fuel Type: Unleaded Premium
• Seating Capacity: 3 persons

2017 Ram 1500 Tradesman gas mileage

The 2017 Ram 1500 Tradesman's fuel efficiency is rated by the EPA at 17 City/25 Highway for the gas-powered V6, while the EcoDiesel V6 engine can deliver 20 City/27 Highway, and the V8 15/22 mpg. All of these are class-leading figures in the full-size truck category, so major kudos to Dodge.

2017 Ram 1500 Tradesman Safety

Unlike the Tradesman, many class rivals offer collision warning and blind-spot monitoring for increased rider protection; however, the 1500 was still able to rack up four stars for overall, front, and rollover safety. Not to mention, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded it a perfect 5.0-star rating for side-impact safety.

What It Is…

• A full-size utility vehicle offering plenty of off-road thrills.
• A quiet and comfortable ride at every turn.
• Fuel-efficient and family-friendly.

What It Isn't…

• A towing behemoth like the Ford F-150
• As up to date as its 2019 sibling.
• The safest full-size pickup on the market.