How Buying a Truck Just Became Much More Fun: A 2022 Ram 1500 Buyer’s Guide

Cincinnati Ram dealers have been sitting on a secret: the 2022 Ram 1500 may look like a regular pickup truck, but it’s actually a super fun vehicle in disguise. Sure, it has all of the capability and dependability you’ve expected from a Ram truck, but there’s something special about the 2022 Ram 1500. Is it the outstanding comfort of the cabin? The best-in-class torque provided by the optional Turbo-Diesel engine? What about the cutting-edge technology that takes center stage in the driver-centric cabin? We’ve compiled this 2022 Ram 1500 Buyer’s Guide to help uncover some of the fantastic things about the truck that shoppers might not immediately recognize and appreciate.

When it comes to selecting the ideal light-duty pickup truck for your life and drive style, you may be overwhelmed by the number of choices that lie before you. Do you want this trim or that? What about this package? Which size cab and bed do you need? Ram understands that not every pickup truck driver has the same needs and has built the 1500 lineup accordingly to meet those requirements. On the other hand, that means you have a lot of decisions to make.

Whether you’re a connoisseur of power and performance or can’t wait to get your fingertips on the infotainment touchscreen, there’s plenty for all drivers to love when it comes to the 2022 Ram 1500. Take a look at some insider tips and things to look for when selecting your next Ram truck.

Which Ram Is Which? Understanding the 2022 Ram 1500 Trims

There are a lot of 2022 Ram 1500 models to choose from, and with the lineup expanding frequently, it may be hard to keep things in focus. One common question drivers ask is, “What’s the difference between the Ram 1500 and the Ram 1500 Classic?” There are, of course, plenty of differences, but the short answer is that models with the “Classic” designation are more low-key, function-based pickup trucks, while the Ram 1500 models are continuing to explore the latest trends and technology for drivers who prefer to be on the cutting edge.

Drivers often ask whether the TRX is technically a Ram 1500 or not, as well. Yes, it is, and the 2022 TRX Ignition Edition manages to take the off-road phenomenon that is the TRX to an entirely new level with a copper and Ignition Orange appearance makeover, along with fun stuff like a head-up display and panoramic sunroof. That being said, Ram acknowledges that a beast that wild stands apart from the regular pack, so you’ll often see the TRX starring in its own ads, as to not steal the limelight from its more domesticated siblings.

There are also plenty of special edition Ram 1500s available in 2022, which we’ll look at in more detail. For the time being, we’ll focus on the Ram 1500 standard lineup, which includes the Tradesman, HFE (High Fuel Economy), Big Horn, Lone Star, Rebel, Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited trims. One thing to note: Ram no longer offers the 1500 in a Regular Cab configuration, which means drivers have the choice of a spacious Quad Cab or Crew Cab, which is roomier by 4 inches. Two box sizes are also offered: a 5-foot 7-inch or a 6-foot 4-inch version.

Features such as a folding rear seat, 2 USB plugs in the front, and voice command with Bluetooth are standard across the lineup, along with a brand new, premier cabin air filtration system. Moving up through the trims adds more goodies, such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated and ventilated leather-trimmed and adjustable power seating, chrome exterior features, and premium audio systems from Alpine and Harman Kardon.

Your Guide to Power and Performance in the 2022 Ram 1500

In addition to Ram offering its drivers various levels of comfort and convenience in the trim levels provided, a variety of power sources are also included in the 2022 1500 lineup. The entry engine is a 3.6L Pentastar V6 with efficiency-improving eTorque. This engine provides 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque for a towing maximum of 7,730 pounds. The overall fuel consumption depends on the trim chosen, as well as whether you select two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, but most options offer 19-20 miles per gallon on the city streets and 24-26 miles per gallon on the highway.

Next up are the coveted 5.7L Hemi V8 engines. Two versions of this engine are offered: one with eTorque technology and the other without. Each provides 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. When properly equipped, Rams with this engine have the ability to pull up to 12,750, the maximum for the brand. As to whether the eTorque makes a difference when it comes to fuel economy, consider that the four-wheel drive Ram equipped with the eTorque Hemi can manage 18 miles per gallon in the city and 22 miles per gallon on the highway, while those without can anticipate 15 miles per gallon in the city and 21 on the highway.

A 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 is also available, with 260 horsepower and a best-in-class 480 lb-ft of torque. This engine gives Ram 1500 trucks the ability to tow up to 12,560 pounds and offer up to 33 miles per gallon of fuel usage when inserted into the HFE 1500. For those looking for the most powerful factory engine ever in a half-ton truck, you’ll want to check out the TRX. Its amazing 6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8 provides a whopping 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque but isn’t offered as part of the standard lineup. At least, not in the 2022 model year.

All New 2022 Ram 1500 Special Editions

Automotive manufacturers offer special editions each year, but the 2022 Ram 1500 is offered in six compelling, unique versions. Besides the TRX Ignition Edition, drivers can also select the Limited (Ram) Red Edition, the Limited 10th Anniversary Edition, or the Built to Serve Firefighter Edition. Those looking for more practicality outdoors can check out the Big Horn BackCountry Edition, while the Laramie and Rebel trims are offered in a unique G/T performance edition.

The (Ram) Red Edition includes a black-trimmed truck with a variety of (Red)-branded badges that demonstrate the commitment made by Ram in support of health emergencies around the world. Also included are a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, 22-inch wheels, and all-weather tires. The Limited 10th Anniversary Edition commemorates a decade of luxury truck excellence by taking the limited top trim to a new level, with features such as a quilted leather console, an exclusive Blue Shade Pearl Coat exterior paint color with new indigo and sea salt gray color scheme inside, and standard multifunctional tailgate.

The Built to Serve Firefighter Edition is available on the Big Horn models, with a choice of black or bold red exterior. The interior includes sport seats with a unique orange and black color scheme. A customizable interior allows you to sport your own badges with pride on Velcro and MOLLE surfaces, too. Also offered on Big Horn models is the BackCountry Edition. Giving the Ram 1500 more power and performance where the pavement ends, this truck includes an electronic-locking rear axle, heavy-duty shocks to absorb rugged terrain, and skid plates to protect the undercarriage. Mopar additions, such as a Deployable Bed Step and all-weather floor mats, make it a truly unique vehicle.

Last but certainly not least are the G/T Models. As the name implies, performance is at the forefront of this truck’s attitude and existence. With the addition of aluminum paddle shifters, performance-engineered bucket seats, and a sport performance hood, drivers also have performance pages to help them record and analyze stats such as 0-60 time, G-force, and engine performance when hitting top speeds. A cold-air intake and Cold-End Exhaust system from Mopar make sure these trucks are getting exactly the breath they need for optimum performance, as well.

Selecting Your 2022 Ram 1500

While it would be impossible to capture every option and nuance of a truck as carefully crafted and tuned to its drivers’ needs as the 2022 Ram 1500, this buyer’s guide should help you be able to talk the talk and walk the walk when you’re checking out the inventory at your local Cincinnati Ram dealer. The next step is to experience the Ram 1500 for yourself. Do your research, and check out the various models available near you before heading out to the dealership for a test drive. With so many options available, it’s a good idea to narrow down your lists of wants and needs before you get behind the wheel. This will help the car-buying process go much smoother and eliminate looking at unnecessary models. With its stunning good looks and plenty of customizable capability, the 2022 Ram 1500 is sure to capture the attention and hearts of drivers looking for not “just a truck,” but a “really, REALLY nice truck.”