The three cab configurations offer two wheelbases (120.5 and 140.5 inches), short (six feet, four inches) and long bed (eight feet) lengths in Regular and Quad Cab models, with a choice of the RamBox or standard shorter-bed length (five feet, seven inches) in all Crew Cab models. Dodge offers five different trim levels (ST, SLT, TRX, Sport, and the top line Laramie), with two specialty packages, Lone Star and Big Horn trims, to satisfy other upper-end buyers. The three engine choices include a 3.7L V-6 (210 horsepower, 235 lb-ft of torque), a 4.7-liter V-8 (310 horse, 330 lb-ft), and newly modified 5.7L Hemi (390 horse, 407 lb-ft).

Its new shape gives the Ram a much sleeker, more aerodynamic look with a 0.419 coefficient of drag (compared with the previous 0.463 Cd of the old Ram). The most significant feature of the truck is still the cross-haired wide-mouth grille, but designers canted it forward this time, much like the Dodge Charger's, to give it a more head-down look.

For our testing, Dodge loaned us two trucks that couldn't be more different: an ST regular cab, 4x2, V-6, listing under $24,000 and a fully loaded Laramie Crew Cab 4x4 with just about every bell and whistle possible, totaling out at over $50,000. Most judges commented on the hugely improved interior layout and material choices in the Ram, noting this could be the best Chrysler-originated interior ever. Likewise, both Dodge powertrains drew praise from judges as the smallish V-6 held its own during our on- and off-road segments; while the throaty 5.7L Hemi tore up the test track with a blistering 6.9 seconds to 60 mph in fully loaded dress.

Also, as we test our trucks with a quantifiable load (75 percent of max towing capacity), it's worth noting the Hemi Crew Cab was slowed the least by its burden. Another area where the Rams stood out was on our Axle Hop Hill test section, where the coil springs, in both base and loaded models, absorbed and swallowed uneven humps and road irregularities with unusual dexterity.

Do you think the 2009 Dodge Ram has what it takes to be the 2009 Motor Trend Truck of the Year?

By Mark Williams

Photography by Brian Vance, Julia LaPalme, and William Walker