Ram debuted the refreshed 1500 lineup last autumn, and more recently, it expanded its offerings to include the new RHO variant, boasting an impressive 540 horsepower. Despite these advancements, one might assume the venerable Ram 1500 Classic would fade into obscurity. However, that assumption would be premature, at least in the American market.
The Ram 1500 Classic represents the prior generation of Ram pickups and continues to serve a crucial role for the brand, particularly in capturing the lower end of the market spectrum. With a starting price of $38,705 in the United States, it presents a more budget-friendly option compared to the standard 1500, which kicks off at $40,275. Although the price discrepancy isn't substantial, the Classic often comes with substantial discounts, such as the current offer of $4,000 in 'bonus cash' for the Tradesman Crew Cab variant.
While the Ram 1500 Classic has maintained its presence for some time, its fate in Canada tells a different story. Production of the Classic ceased recently, and dealers reportedly possess sufficient inventory to sustain sales until the year's end.
However, there's a silver lining for American and Mexican consumers as Ram has assured that "1500 Classic production will continue for the United States and Mexico." This announcement brings relief to those seeking value-oriented options, including fleet operators.
Although Ram doesn't provide a breakdown of truck sales by variant, it's evident that demand in the United States and Mexico warranted the continuation of the aging model. Notably, unlike its competitors, Ram doesn't offer a mid-size truck in the American market. The closest alternative within the Stellantis lineup is the Jeep Gladiator, which starts at $37,895. However, once you tack on an automatic transmission, the price surges to $40,395, not including the $1,895 destination fee. Consequently, this makes the Gladiator a tough sell for fleets and price-conscious consumers alike.
The future lifespan of the Ram 1500 Classic in America remains uncertain, but the 2024 model is equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine generating 305 horsepower. Additionally, customers have the option to upgrade to a 5.7-liter V8 engine, although it's conceivable that this choice may be phased out in the near future.