Introduction:

Technically the truck is not all new. The V6 and 4.7-liter V8 engines (overhauled recently), the brake system (upgraded), and transmissions have not been substantially changed for the 2009 model year. In a few cases, such as the front suspension geometry and the forward frame sections, the design remained but new materials are being used for more strength, less weight, or both. Some audio and climate control systems, and the middle front row seat may appear familiar, too. But that's where any similarities between the 2008 and 2009 models end.

The bodywork is all new and more aerodynamic. A Crew Cab model has been added to the mix; it has more cabin space than the Quad Cab but in more manageable dimensions than the retired Mega Cab. The new Crew Cab required its own pickup bed, dubbed RamBox: A perfect rectangle inside, it sports a pair of lockable bins along the bed sides, but can carry the standard 4x8-foot sheet flat on the bed floor.

Interiors have been given new styles and materials, new center console with shifter for some models, and new amenities and gadgets. Virtually every mechanical and air management system has been refined to limit noise and vibrations that become fatiguing over time.

Chrysler's image-building Hemi 5.7-liter V8 has been tuned up to 390 horsepower and 407 pound-feet of torque; it's the most powerful V8 in any regular or mid-size-cab pickup at time of introduction, and it didn't come at the expense of fuel economy. At the other end, a new rear suspension employs a design returning to full-size pickups after a decades-long absence and currently used on some sport-utilities like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chevy Tahoe that see off-pavement use.

What Dodge didn't do is follow the last decade's trend of making half-ton pickups carry and tow more than the previous generation. There are plenty of Dodge (and other) heavy-duty pickups for pulling big trailers or hauling two tons of hay, and the decision to keep the light-duty Ram in the light-duty work realm pays dividends in comfort and is beneficial in terms of fuel economy.