1994-15 Dodge Ram Vehicle History

1994

Dodge introduced its first all-new full-size truck in 22 years. Dodge Ram pickup sales tripled versus 1993 model year, with 232,092 models sold. The 4x4 Ram was the first fullsize pickup to have a four-link coil spring front suspension. The 8.0 liter V10 engine (available at mid-year) was the world's most powerful gasoline pickup engine rated at 300 horsepower and 450 ft.-lb. of torque. New chassis series designations 1500, 2500 and 3500 represented 1/2-, 3/4- and 1-ton pickups.

1995

The Club Cab Ram pickup was introduced. The standard cab Ram was the biggest in the industry, and the Club Cab allowed for even more room. The Club Cab was 20 inches longer than the regular cab to provide for the folding rear seat. Club Cab models offered six passenger seating and provided over 51 cubic feet of rear cargo space. Club Cab Ram pickups had more interior room than any of its competitors.

1996

The tailgate protector was cancelled. The 8.0 liter V10 engine was equipped with sequential multi-port fuel injection. Improvements to the diesel engine increased horsepower and torque. RE series automatic transmissions were electronically shifted to provide smoother shifting. OBD-II on-board diagnostics system debuted along with the ITEC powertrain control module.

1997

Ram Sport models were standard equipped with a 5.9L V8 engine, sport-tuned exhaust system with chrome tips, 17-inch wheels and a refined suspension system. For the 2500 series only the 8,800 lb. GVW rating was available. The so-called light 3/4 ton, 7,500 lb. GVW, was dropped. Remote keyless entry was available.

1998

The Dodge Ram Quad Cab was introduced. It provided two rear seat access doors. Club Cab and Quad Cab Ram pickups received new front seats with integrated seat belts to provide unobstructed rear seat access. Interior improvements included a contoured instrument panel and a redesigned console. Passenger side airbag with on/ off switch was standard on all models. At mid-year a new 24-valve Cummins Turbo Diesel was introduced. Additional improvements were made to the electronic fuel injection system to provide more power and fuel efficiency. Power door lock and window switches were illuminated. Optional equipment available included heated power mirrors and security system.

1999

Ram Sport models were redesigned to feature a body color front bumper cover and grille, quad headlights, clear driving/fog lights and graphics. Steering wheel mounted radio controls were available. Overhead consoles were redesigned. Vacuum fluorescent odometer display debuted.

2000

The 1500 series Club Cab longbed and all 2500 and 3500 series Club Cab models were discontinued. The Off-Road Group option, offered only for the 1500 short wheelbase model, included a limited-slip differential, performance shocks and springs on the front and rear, a front stabilizer bar, skid plates, tow hooks, 4.10:1 gear ratio, 17 x 8-inch aluminum wheels with all-terrain tires.

2001

The Club Cab version was discontinued. Ram pickups continued with only minor updates or improvements. This was due in large part to the upcoming redesign of the Ram pickup for the next model year.

2002

This was a split year for the Ram pickup. The Ram 2500 and 3500 were a carryover of the existing body style. 2500 and 3500 models were only offered as a standard cab or quad cab. The Ram 1500 was totally redesigned and given a new body style. Two new engines accompanied the Ram 1500. The 3.7 liter V6 replaced the 3.9 liter V6 and the 4.7 liter V8 replaced the 5.2 liter V8. Ram 1500 Quad cab models featured full rear doors for easy access.

2003

The Ram 2500 and 3500 body style were updated to match the Ram 1500. Debut of the 5.7 liter Hemi V8 which produced 345 horsepower and 365 ft.-lb. of torque. The high output 5.9 liter diesel, only offered with a 6-speed manual transmission, produced an industry leading 555 ft.-lb. of torque.

2004

The Ram 1500 SRT-10 debuted as the fastest truck ever produced, capable of a top speed of over 150 mph. The SRT-10 used the Dodge Viper 8.3 liter V10 engine and 6-speed manual transmission. This package produced 500 horsepower and 525 ft.-lb. of torque.

2005

The Dodge Ram Power Wagon was available again. The Power Wagon was powered by the 345 horsepower 5.7 liter Hemi V-8. Standard features included 4.56 gear ratio, Bilstein shocks, electric locking front and rear differentials, 17 x 8 inch forged aluminum wheels, 33-inch all-terrain tires and a 12,000-lb. winch.

2006

Ram models received redesigned headlights, grille, front bumper cover and fenders. Ram 1500 models had a rear tailgate spoiler for improved aerodynamics. New coil spring front suspension on 4WD Ram 1500 models. Multi Displacement System was available on Ram 1500 trucks equipped with the 5.7L Hemi V8. MDS seamlessly alternated between 4 cylinder mode for improved fuel economy and V8 mode when more power was needed. The available Mega Cab was the largest cab ever offered in a full-size truck. Mega Cab models were only available with a shortbed to allow for the additional 20 inches of cab space featuring reclining rear seats and seating for six adults.

2007

Headlights and tail lights were restyled for all Ram models. Ram 2500 and 3500 series trucks could be purchased with the new 6.7L Cummins diesel engine. The new diesel engine delivered 350 horsepower and 650 ft.-lbs of torque and was equipped with Bluetec emissions-reduction system that met the EPA's year 2010 emission standards. A new 6 speed automatic transmission was also available in diesel engine equipped trucks. The 4.7L V8 engine was E-85 fuel compatible.

2008

The 4.7L V8 engine was revised, featuring a new camshaft design and new cylinder heads with 2 spark plugs per cylinder. Power ratings for the 4.7L increased to 310 horsepower and 330 ft.-lb. of torque. Cloth seats were constructed of YES Essentials, an odor and stain resistant antistatic fabric material.