Updates and Special Editions to Look for When Shopping for a Pre-Owned Ram 1500

Shopping for a good used Ram pickup truck from older generations might seem like an easy task: just find something you like that’s cheap, right? Not quite. The trick to shopping for a used truck should also be based on the major updates or features present in the older generation models that appeal most to you, especially the fourth and fifth generation Ram 1500 series. Let McHugh Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT, your premier used Ram dealership, help you find the perfect Ram model. There are a few things you should keep in mind when it comes to shopping for a truck with a lot of what you actually want. Specifically, regarding some of the major updates and changes to the model years, there are a few things we cover in this article that you should look for when shopping for the right model, ensuring that you end up with a great-looking truck that is affordable and has the features you want. If you still need more help finding that ideal pre-owned, our team will always be ready to answer any questions you have and lead you toward the model that fits your unique needs.

#1 – Performance Updates

The Ram 1500 is well known for its performance capabilities, but did you know that different model years from different generations have different performance specs? This is extremely important to remember if you’re buying used and want the best that the generation or model year offers. For instance, the best-performing iteration of the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 is attached to either the fourth or fifth-generation models between 2013 and 2024. The HEMI V8 engines attached to these models output up to 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. More recent models will also allow you to take advantage of the 6.2L HEMI V8 discontinued with the 2024 model. This will offer you an impressive 702 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a good turbocharged diesel engine, the EcoDiesel V6 for the Ram 1500 saw a slight boost in performance between the 2020 and 2023 model year outings. The newer EcoDiesel outputs up to 260 hp at 480 lb-ft of torque, up from the previous model year’s 240 hp at 460 lb-ft of torque. This makes any Ram 1500 after 2020 with the Ecodiesel an excellent choice for those who want a light-duty pickup that could save on fuel and provide you with some of the best towing capacity available for a used half-ton Ram. In fact, with the EcoDiesel, the Ram can tow up to 12,560 lbs. So, if the best performance capabilities are what you’re after, definitely keep in mind which model year you opt to go with.

#2 – Infotainment and Connectivity Updates

One of the most frequently changed features on a vehicle these days is infotainment and connectivity tech. The infotainment suite, digital driver display, and driver assistance tools are constantly changing throughout the model years for most recent generation vehicles, and the Ram 1500 is no exception to this rule. The fourth and fifth generations saw many rapid changes take place over the years, mostly starting with the 2015 model year outing. This included all new connectivity features courtesy of Uconnect, as well as a mount for your smartphone. So, if you want infotainment connectivity, anything after the 2015 model year is something you will want to keep on your radar.

The 2018 Ram 1500 also introduced new infotainment features and app support with the 8.4-inch HD touchscreen, including standard HD radio for all 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment suites. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also became the standard way to use smartphone projection compared to the previous smart device access system that the Ram had. So, if you want more infotainment functionality out of your used Ram 1500, you might want to consider any model that is 2018 or newer.

There were a few other updates over the years that are worth considering, including the upgraded HD touchscreen with the 2019 model year featuring a 12-inch reconfigurable screen. If the 8.4-inch screen wasn’t enough, the available 12-inch screen provides you with more space for your work, apps, and more. If you opt to go slightly newer yet, the 2021 model year Ram 1500 introduced the digital heads-up display, adding an extra layer of convenience and tech to your truck driving experience.

#3 – Off-Road Trims

Many people love buying used trucks to either outfit them for off-roading or get them with off-roading packages. If you’re shopping for a used Ram 1500 with off-road capabilities, there are some good options throughout both the fourth and fifth generation, starting with the 2016 Ram Rebel. This is a good entry-level off-road trim that offers a bold look for the half-ton pickup with some good off-road features, such as off-road shocks, a one-inch lift kit, and larger tires.

If you’re a fan of the Ram 1500 Classic, there is an opportunity to get a used off-road variant, with the fifth generation introducing the Warlock off-road package for the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic. This is a way to capture the old-school look of the second generation Ram while also introducing more modern off-road capabilities from the fifth generation. This makes for a good consideration for those looking for a classically-themed Ram 1500 that is also off-road capable.

If you’re willing to spend a bit more on a used Ram 1500, the 2021 model years and newer offer the Ram 1500 TRX. However, these are rare breeds and are only produced in limited supply. The supercharged HEMI V8 that powers this beast is highly sought after, so even if you manage to find one used, it may be a bit more expensive compared to its other models. However, the Ram 1500 TRX is an off-road performance beast with all of the tools and functionality to make off-roading fun and exciting.

#4 – Special Editions

Buying a used Ram 1500 from your local Ram dealership doesn’t always mean settling for a basic trim from the generational line-up. Some people might actually want something special beyond the basic trim offerings when it comes to shopping for a used truck, and the Ram 1500 actually has quite a few options available. There is the 2015 Ram 1500 Lone Star Edition, which is a luxury-themed version of the Ram 1500 based around Texan culture. There is also the Ram 1500 Lone Star Silver Special Edition, which was introduced with the 2017 model year, featuring a luxury interior, a specially themed chrome surround grille, and aluminum wheels.

There is also the 2018 Ram 1500 Limited Tungsten Edition, which provides a leather interior, real metal accents, trimming, and a 14.5-inch HD Uconnect touchscreen. The Limited Tungsten Edition comes with some fancy equipment and rare updates, so if you had money to spare for a used Ram 1500, this is an interesting option to explore. The downside is that finding a Limited Tungsten may be difficult due to its rarity. The same applies for the 2021 Ram 1500 Limited Longhorn 10th Anniversary Edition and the 2022 Ram 1500 10th Anniversary Edition, which features limited exterior paints, chrome details, and large 22-inch polished aluminum wheels. There are a lot of intricate details and special badging featured throughout the anniversary editions, along with custom graphics and infotainment features.

There is also the Ram 1500 BackCountry, which is a light off-roading iteration seated alongside the Rebel and the TRX. Of course, the TRX also received some special editions in the form of the TRX Ignition Edition and TRX Sandblast Edition, which were limited editions of the already limited TRX. Fewer than 1,000 TRX Ignition Edition models were made, so finding one may prove to be difficult, but if you really wanted a special design and some exterior accouterments specially made for the TRX, then it’s something to consider if you were really gung-ho about getting a used Ram 1500 that was specifically made for hardcore off-roading. Contact us at McHugh Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT today to learn more!

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