Autoblog Ram http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Ram http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff RossThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[2013 Ram 3500 HD]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2013-ram-3500-hd-review-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2013-ram-3500-hd-review-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2013-ram-3500-hd-review-first-drive/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Tow It All

2013 Ram 3500 HD

There are no shiftier sands than those that underlie the heavy duty truck market. Ford, General Motors and Chrysler have been locked in the same interminable sniping match for years, each delighting in picking their competitors off with new, more powerful drivelines and ever loftier tow ratings. Right now, Ram sits at the top of the heap with its 2013 3500 HD. With the optional Max Tow package, the truck is rated to pull an astonishing 30,000 pounds. That's ludicrous weight - the kind of heft typically left to the semi world.

In fact, most states require you to have a commercial driver's license just to pull that much ballast around behind you, and for good reason: All that tonnage comes to bear on every aspect of a vehicle's driving dynamics. Every maneuver takes longer, requires more forethought and exacts a larger toll on the vehicle's hardware. Of course, as is often the case, there can be a gulf between what it says on a machine's label and what the rig can actually muster in terms of performance. We hitched a full 30,000 lbs behind the 2013 Ram 3500 HD to find out exactly how well the truck lives up to its reputation.

Continue reading 2013 Ram 3500 HD

2013 Ram 3500 HD originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 3500 hd2013 ram 3500 hd2013 ram 3500 hd first drive2013 ram hdcumminsfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivehdram 3500 hdram hd Wed, 22 May 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578571/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578571/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/2013-ram-3500-hd-review-first-drive/20578571/article-detail.xml 20578571 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-ram-3500-hd-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-ram-3500-hd-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Automobile Magazine names its 2013 All-Stars]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,



Employing complex scientific formulas and methodologies probably best described as "Whatever we felt like choosing," Automobile has named its All-Stars for the 2013 model year. The 11 vehicles earned their trophies for being "the best and most significant" offerings to the mag's staff and contributors, and while we were surprised to see a couple of them on the list, none of them were shocking. In no particular order, they are: Random notes: The least expensive vehicle on the list was the Ford Focus at $16,995 however, it was the $24,495 Focus ST that was actually driven; the least expensive vehicle as-tested, when such indication was given, was the $28,265 BRZ; the most expensive vehicle as-tested was the $75,615 Porsche Boxster S, hurdling the price of the A7 by nearly $4,000; the greatest disparity between base and as-tested price was the Ram, from the $24,395 skin-and-bones truck to the $54,335 Laramie Longhorn Crew Cab; the GTI was viewed through the history of its birthplace, Wolfsburg.

There you have it. Head on over to Automobile for the full story and the adventures they created to test each winner.

Automobile Magazine names its 2013 All-Stars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audi a7automobileautomobile magazineautomobile magazine all-starsbmw 3 serieschevrolet camaro zl1ford focushonda accordmazda cx-5porsche boxsterram 1500scion fr-ssubaru brzvolkswagen golf gti Wed, 22 May 2013 11:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578483/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578483/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/20578483/article-detail.xml 20578483 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevrolet-camaro-zl1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevrolet-camaro-zl1.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler Group moves around execs in wake of recent departure]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/chrysler-group-moves-around-execs-in-wake-of-recent-departure/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/chrysler-group-moves-around-execs-in-wake-of-recent-departure/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/chrysler-group-moves-around-execs-in-wake-of-recent-departure/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Reid Bigland, newly appointed Ram brand president and CEOChrysler is busy shuffling executives around in the wake of Ram head Fred Diaz's departure. The automaker has named Reid Bigland (pictured, right) as Diaz's successor in the role of president and CEO of Ram, though Bigland will continue his duties as the head of US sales and the president and CEO of Chrysler Canada. Bigland first came to Chrysler in 2006 from Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation, so the guy knows a thing or two about trucks.

Meanwhile, Timothy Kuniskis will take over as president and CEO of Dodge. Previously, he served as the head of Fiat in North America and has been with Chrysler in one capacity or another since 1992. His old title now falls to Jason Stoicevich, who will also continue to work as the director of the automaker's California Business Center. Finally, Bruno Cattori will take over as the president and CEO of Chrysler Mexico.

Diaz left his position to take over as a divisional vice president of sales and marketing with Nissan. You can read the full press release on the Chrysler personnel changes below for more information.

Continue reading Chrysler Group moves around execs in wake of recent departure

Chrysler Group moves around execs in wake of recent departure originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chryslerdodgefiatfred diazjason stoicevichramreid biglandtimothy kuniskis Tue, 16 Apr 2013 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20542424/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20542424/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/chrysler-group-moves-around-execs-in-wake-of-recent-departure/20542424/article-detail.xml 20542424 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/reid-bigland-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/reid-bigland-628.jpg <![CDATA[Auto journo learns hard way that new vehicles burn differently than old ones]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/auto-journo-learns-hard-way-that-new-vehicles-burn-differently-t/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/auto-journo-learns-hard-way-that-new-vehicles-burn-differently-t/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/auto-journo-learns-hard-way-that-new-vehicles-burn-differently-t/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Terry Box, a writer for the Dallas Morning News, was tootling down the Dallas North Tollway in a Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn pickup after work and enjoying the ride. Box thought the $53,335, option-filled press loaner had been "flawless - very serious competition for anything built by Ford or Chevy." And then, for reasons that still aren't clear, something in the engine compartment caught fire and the Ram cremated itself on the shoulder of an off-ramp.

Box tells the story and it isn't an indictment of the truck, but a cautionary tale about how new vehicles don't burn like the old ones did - and why not to go back for your gym bag. It could also be a kind reminder about what kind of safety gear everyone should keep in their cars. Click the link to read the whole piece.

Auto journo learns hard way that new vehicles burn differently than old ones originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Apr 2013 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dallasfireramram 1500ram 1500 laramie longhornread thisterry boxtexas Mon, 15 Apr 2013 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20539937/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20539937/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/15/auto-journo-learns-hard-way-that-new-vehicles-burn-differently-t/20539937/article-detail.xml 20539937 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/terry-box-ram-fire_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/terry-box-ram-fire.jpg <![CDATA[Ward's 10 Best Interiors released, Asian automakers take 7 of 10 spots]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , ,



Step inside just about any new car these days and you'll quickly see that vehicle interiors have become a pretty nice place to spend some time in. For the third consecutive year, WardsAuto sat in each and every new vehicle that had received redesigned or updated interiors, and it has now named its 10 Best Interiors.

Judges look at everything from design and fit-and-finish to comfort, safety and technology. Some of the standout selections include budget cars like the Chevrolet Spark and Kia Forte all the way up to more expensive sedans like the $60,000+ Cadillac XTS and Lexus GS450h. An interesting note here is that WardsAuto praises Cadillac for its CUE infotainment system while Consumer Reports generally lambasts the system. Asian automakers definitely won the contest for nicest interiors as the list is comprised of five Japanese automakers and two South Korean, with Toyota and General Motors in a dead heat with the most number of cars on the list with two each.

Scroll down for the full list (in alphabetical order) and press release from WardsAuto for its 10 Best Interiors of 2013.

Continue reading Ward's 10 Best Interiors released, Asian automakers take 7 of 10 spots

Ward's 10 Best Interiors released, Asian automakers take 7 of 10 spots originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 10 best interiorsacuraacura rdxcadillaccadillac xtschevroletchevrolet sparkhyundaihyundai santa fe sportkiakia fortelexuslexus gs450hmazda6nissannissan pathfinderramram 1500ram 1500 laramie longhorntoyotatoyota avalonwards auto Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20541080/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20541080/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/15/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/20541080/article-detail.xml 20541080 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cadillac-xts-interior_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cadillac-xts-interior.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler recalling over 200k vehicles across its brands]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/chrysler-recalling-over-200k-vehicles-across-its-brands/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/chrysler-recalling-over-200k-vehicles-across-its-brands/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/chrysler-recalling-over-200k-vehicles-across-its-brands/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



With more than 200,000 units across six separate recalls and almost all of its brands, it appears that Chrysler has officially jumped headfirst into the recall pool this month. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued three official recalls for the automaker, and The Detroit News is reporting that the automaker itself has announced three more.

The biggest of the recalls applies to about 120,000 Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger and Chrysler 300 models for 2011 and 2012 due to faulty wiring harnesses for the seat-mounted side airbags, which could lead to these airbags not deploying in the event of a crash. A little more than 60,000 two-wheel-drive versions of the 2007-2008 Dodge Nitro and 2008 Jeep Liberty SUVs are being recalled due to a heat shield that could cause the driveshaft to break, which if that isn't bad on its own, could then hit underneath where the airbag sensor is mounted, causing the airbags to deploy. Wrapping up NHTSA's recall notices, about 20,000 Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass models for 2012 are also being recalled due to a problem with the fuel tank transfer tube that could lead to the vehicle stalling. The LX car recall campaign is going into effect this month, while the other two will start next month - all three notices are posted below.

In addition to the official NHTSA recalls, The Detroit News is also reporting that Chrysler is recalling more than 16,000 Ram trucks and a small number of Dodge Dart sedans. Around 6,500 2013 Ram 1500 trucks will be recalled due to an improper adjustment of the parking brake cable from the factory, while 7,000 Cummins-powered 2013 Ram Heavy Duty trucks are being recalled due to an engine cover that does not have as much heat resistance as it is supposed to. Finally, a total of 46 Dodge Dart sedans are being recalled due to a problem with the brake calipers and/or parking brake.

Continue reading Chrysler recalling over 200k vehicles across its brands

Chrysler recalling over 200k vehicles across its brands originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chryslerchrysler 300chrysler recalldodgedodge challengerdodge chargerdodge nitrododge recalljeepjeep compassjeep libertyjeep patriotjeep recallNational Highway Traffic Safety Administrationramram 1500ram heavy dutyram recallrecall Wed, 10 Apr 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20536183/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20536183/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/10/chrysler-recalling-over-200k-vehicles-across-its-brands/20536183/article-detail.xml 20536183 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/dodge-challenger-srt8-392_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/dodge-challenger-srt8-392.jpg <![CDATA[Ram may build more trucks with sports team tie-ins]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/04/ram-may-build-more-trucks-with-sports-team-tie-ins/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/04/ram-may-build-more-trucks-with-sports-team-tie-ins/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/04/ram-may-build-more-trucks-with-sports-team-tie-ins/#comments Filed under: , ,

Dodge Ram 1500 Red Wings edition parked at center ice

After a rather successful foray with a Red Wings edition of the Ram 1500 last year - some 3,000 units sold - the truck brand is both re-upping its relationship with Detroit's hockey powerhouse and considering expansion into other sport franchises.

Ram announced last month that it would carry on its partnership with the Red Wings throughout the 2012-13 NHL season. The company will not offer a special edition version of the 2013 Ram, due in part to the strike-shortened NHL season. In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Ram boss Fred Diaz called the Red Wings partnership an experiment that "worked out so incredibly well, we're looking at the possibility of doing other things with other sports."

Diaz doesn't see Ram doing deals with entire leagues, but does think that other teams and cities, with a similar "rabid fan base" could make sense for co-branding. "We'll pick our spots and our moments, " said Diaz, "and if we feel like we have a good opportunity, we'll do it."

Check out some of the marketing materials for the 2012 Ram 1500 Red Wings Edition in our attached gallery and let us know which teams/cities you think would pair well in Comments.

Continue reading Ram may build more trucks with sports team tie-ins

Ram may build more trucks with sports team tie-ins originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 ram 1500 red wings editiondetroit red wingsfred diaznational hockey leaguenhlramram 1500ram 1500 red wings editionred wings Thu, 04 Apr 2013 15:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20530096/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20530096/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/04/ram-may-build-more-trucks-with-sports-team-tie-ins/20530096/article-detail.xml 20530096 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/ram-1500-red-wings-edition-628_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/ram-1500-red-wings-edition-628.png <![CDATA[Chrysler thinking of taking on Ford SVT Raptor?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/24/chrysler-thinking-of-taking-on-ford-svt-raptor/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/24/chrysler-thinking-of-taking-on-ford-svt-raptor/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/24/chrysler-thinking-of-taking-on-ford-svt-raptor/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Ram Runner

An argument could be made that Chrysler already offers a competitor to the much-loved Ford Raptor in the form of the Ram Runner pickup. The difference, though, is that Ford builds the Raptor right on the production line, whereas Ram requires the buyer to have modifications made at one of its dealerships after the initial purchase is made.

That distinction may soon be a thing of the past, according to a report from Wards Auto. "If we could see that the volume was significant enough that it makes sense to do it, we'll do it," says Pat Dougherty, vice president of Mopar parts, sales and field operations. "But if we don't, then we'll continue to do it the way we do it."

Additionally, Chrysler would reportedly like to put more emphasis on the fuel efficiency of its off-road-ready lineup, which is spearheaded by the Jeep Wrangler. Says Dougherty, "For a lot of the people who go off-roading (but) actually drive their vehicle as a daily driver, they want to make sure they're getting fuel efficiency while they're driving to work."

Chrysler thinking of taking on Ford SVT Raptor? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Mar 2013 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ramram runnerram runner production Sun, 24 Mar 2013 13:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20515926/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20515926/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/24/chrysler-thinking-of-taking-on-ford-svt-raptor/20515926/article-detail.xml 20515926 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/ram-runner_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/ram-runner.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Ram Promaster pricing starts at $26,030*]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/2014-ram-promaster-pricing-starts-at-26-030/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/2014-ram-promaster-pricing-starts-at-26-030/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/2014-ram-promaster-pricing-starts-at-26-030/#comments Filed under: , ,



Looking to get back into the thick of things in the commercial van market, Chrysler has set the pricing for the Fiat Ducato-based 2014 Ram Promaster. When it goes on sale by the end of this year, the new Promaster will have prices that range from $26,030 for the Promaster 3500 chassis cab cutaway with a 136-inch wheelbase and topping out at $36,150 for the long-wheelbase, high-roof 3500 cargo van (*prices don't include the $995 destination charge).

While pricing was released for a total of 14 build configurations (including the addition of a 2500 cargo van equipped with rear windows that was not previously announced last month), Chrysler has still not announced how much it will cost to get the optional combination of the EcoDiesel engine and the six-speed automated manual transmission and if it will be available in all styles. To see the full pricing breakdown for each Promaster model and body configuration, scroll down for Chrysler's official press release.

Continue reading 2014 Ram Promaster pricing starts at $26,030*

2014 Ram Promaster pricing starts at $26,030* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 ram promaster2014 ram promaster pricingpromasterpromaster msrpramram commercial Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20490044/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20490044/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/06/2014-ram-promaster-pricing-starts-at-26-030/20490044/article-detail.xml 20490044 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-ram-promaster-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-ram-promaster-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler's internal documents question Ram quality as workers protest]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/01/chryslers-internal-documents-question-ram-quality-as-workers-pr/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/01/chryslers-internal-documents-question-ram-quality-as-workers-pr/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/01/chryslers-internal-documents-question-ram-quality-as-workers-pr/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 Ram 1500 - front three-quarter view

Chrysler is reportedly having a hard time ramping up production of its 2013 Ram 1500. According to The Detroit News, only 16 of the 58 trucks built at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant during the model's first hour passed final inspection. While quality eventually improved over the course of the day, just over half of the units built on Thursday were approved for shipment. Even with workers ordered to stay late to fix their mistakes, some 1,078 units remained outside the facility with defects. The problem, according to workers at the plant, is morale.

According to the report, Chrysler recently changed the shift schedule at the plant and workers are unhappy with the new situation. The new plan has workers split into three shifts, each covering four 10-hour days. With the shifts staggered, some workers now have to work nights and on Saturdays. Some employees are so upset that they've taken to protesting, though the move isn't sanctioned by the United Auto Workers.

Meanwhile, Chrysler admits there were internal issues with the launch, but that the company was able to contain them. A spokesperson has said "plant quality indicators are getting progressively better."

Chrysler's internal documents question Ram quality as workers protest originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 15002013 ram 1500dodge ramramram 1500ram 1500 productionuawunited auto workerswarren truck assembly plantwarren truck plant Fri, 01 Mar 2013 10:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20484765/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20484765/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/01/chryslers-internal-documents-question-ram-quality-as-workers-pr/20484765/article-detail.xml 20484765 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/ram-1500-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/ram-1500-628.jpg <![CDATA[Who sold the most small/midsize pickups in 2012? <i>PickupTrucks.com</i> investigates that, too]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/who-sold-the-most-small-midsize-pickups-in-2012-pickuptrucks/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/who-sold-the-most-small-midsize-pickups-in-2012-pickuptrucks/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/who-sold-the-most-small-midsize-pickups-in-2012-pickuptrucks/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , ,

2013 Toyota Tacoma - front three-quarter view, on mountain

PickupTrucks.com has taken another look at the sales of its favorite vehicle bodystyle as part of an ongoing series. According to registration data from R.L. Polk, the Toyota Tacoma easily took the crown as America's best-selling mid-sized pickup, with 133,477 units rolling into new homes in 2012. For comparison, the second-place Nissan Frontier only saw 50,566 registrations.

We feel compelled to point out that before Ford pulled the plug on its ancient Ranger, the company was moving some 75,000 units per year. That number had shriveled to 15,662 by 2012, which was still enough to surpass the Honda Ridgeline. Interestingly enough, one person brought home a brand-new Hummer H3T as well. But mid-sized trucks represent only a fraction of total pickup sales. Dealers sold a total of 241,471 midsizers last year compared to 988,326 half-tons.

That segment was dominated by General Motors with 533,814 sales followed by Ford at 478,204. Ram Trucks trailed behind in third with 241,204 units with Toyota close behind at 229,769. Nissan, meanwhile, remains a distant fifth. Head over to PickupTrucks.com for a closer look at the breakdown in each segment.

Who sold the most small/midsize pickups in 2012? PickupTrucks.com investigates that, too originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 toyota tacomageneral motorsgmpickup salespickup truck salespickupstacomatoyotatruck Wed, 27 Feb 2013 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20480921/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20480921/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/27/who-sold-the-most-small-midsize-pickups-in-2012-pickuptrucks/20480921/article-detail.xml 20480921 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/toyota-tacoma-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/toyota-tacoma-628.jpg <![CDATA[Who sold the most heavy-duty pickups in 2012? <i>PickupTrucks.com</i> investigates]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/who-sold-the-most-heavy-duty-pickups-in-2012-pickuptrucks-co/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/who-sold-the-most-heavy-duty-pickups-in-2012-pickuptrucks-co/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/who-sold-the-most-heavy-duty-pickups-in-2012-pickuptrucks-co/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

Ford Super Duty Nose

Domestic manufacturers enjoyed a good year for heavy-duty pickup sales in 2012. PickupTrucks.com has taken a close look at exactly how those sales broke down between each manufacturer and between three-quarter and one-ton pickups. Ford sold some 67,786 F-250 Super Duty models last year with the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD falling just behind at 56,359 units. The Ram 2500 HD came in third at 41,918, while the GMC Sierra 2500 HD earned itself fourth place with 27,616 deliveries. While Ford held onto the top spot in the one-ton market, Ram easily nailed down second place by selling more 3500 HD models last year than General Motors sold Silverado 3500 HD and Sierra 3500 HD trucks combined.

So, did GM manage to sell more trucks than Ford with its two brands? Very nearly. Ford sold a total of 119,338 heavy-duty pickups to GM's 111,555. Ram, meanwhile, moved a distant 77,583. But perhaps more interesting is the diesel take rate in this segment. PickupTrucks.com says 80 percent of all domestic one-ton trucks roll from the dealer lot with a turbo-diesel under the hood. Head over to the site for a closer look at the breakdown.

Who sold the most heavy-duty pickups in 2012? PickupTrucks.com investigates originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 08:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chevroletfordford super dutygmcramram hdsierrasierra hdsilverado hdsuper duty Tue, 26 Feb 2013 08:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20477070/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20477070/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/26/who-sold-the-most-heavy-duty-pickups-in-2012-pickuptrucks-co/20477070/article-detail.xml 20477070 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/super-duty-nose-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/super-duty-nose-628.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #321 LIVE!]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-321-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-321-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-321-live/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast graphic

We're set to record Autoblog Podcast #321 tonight, and you can drop us your questions and comments regarding the rest of the week's news via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #321


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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #321 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Feb 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 15002013 ram 15002014 chevrolet ssautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 321autoblog podcast 321 topicschevroletfordford rangermitsubishipodcastpodcast 321ramram dieselrangerssunibody pickupunibody ranger Tue, 19 Feb 2013 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20467930/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20467930/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-321-live/20467930/article-detail.xml 20467930 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[YouTube tallies votes for this year's top five Super Bowl spots [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/youtube-tallies-votes-for-this-years-top-five-super-bowl-spots/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/youtube-tallies-votes-for-this-years-top-five-super-bowl-spots/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/youtube-tallies-votes-for-this-years-top-five-super-bowl-spots/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



When we asked you to tell us which of this year's 16 car-themed Super Bowl commercials you liked best, you chose the Farmer commercial from Chrysler Group, advertising the Ram trucks, over Audi's Prom commercial in second place. Turns out the voters in YouTube's Ad Blitz poll agreed, voting the same commercial to the number one spot from among the field commercials in every category.

From there, however, they went in a totally different direction. Budweiser's The Clydesdales spot came second, Samsung's The Next Big Thing took third. The Jeep Whole Again ad scored fourth in the YouTube poll, fifth in our poll of auto commercials, and the Hyundai Team spot got fifth from the YouTubers, but ninth in our poll.

The voting results don't match up with the viewing numbers, though - while Farmer has more than 13 million views, The Next Big Thing is well beyond 21 million. You can read the press release below and see all five spots, lined up for you, one more time.

Continue reading YouTube tallies votes for this year's top five Super Bowl spots [w/video]

YouTube tallies votes for this year's top five Super Bowl spots [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> advertisingcommercialhyundaijeepramram farmersuper bowlteamvideovideoswhole againyoutube Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20466849/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20466849/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/19/youtube-tallies-votes-for-this-years-top-five-super-bowl-spots/20466849/article-detail.xml 20466849 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ramfarmersb_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ramfarmersb.jpg <![CDATA[Ram 1500 to get V6 diesel engine later this year]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/ram-1500-to-get-v6-turbodiesel-engine-later-this-year/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/ram-1500-to-get-v6-turbodiesel-engine-later-this-year/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/ram-1500-to-get-v6-turbodiesel-engine-later-this-year/#comments Filed under: , ,

2013 Ram 1500

Happy Valentine's Day, diesel lovers! Chrysler announced today that the Ram 1500 will offer a light-duty diesel engine when it goes into production this fall. Using the same turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 recently introduced in the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Ram 1500 is expected to get even better fuel economy than the current 2013 model's best-in-class 25 miles per gallon on the highway.

Power output has not been released for the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, but in the Grand Cherokee, this engine produces 240 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, and it will be paired with Chrysler's eight-speed automatic transmission. This has definitely been a busy and exciting year for the Ram division, bringing home major awards such as the 2013 North American Truck of the Year, 2013 Motor Trend Truck of the Year and 2013 Truck of Texas not to mention the recent announcement that the Ram HD models will offer a best-in-class towing capacity of 30,000 pounds - all of which is pointed out in the press release, below.

Continue reading Ram 1500 to get V6 diesel engine later this year

Ram 1500 to get V6 diesel engine later this year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 15002014 ram 15002014 ram 1500 ecodieseldieseldiesel halfton pickupdiesel truckecodiesellight duty diesel ramlight-duty dieselpickup truckramram 1500 dieselram truck Thu, 14 Feb 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20461972/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20461972/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/14/ram-1500-to-get-v6-turbodiesel-engine-later-this-year/20461972/article-detail.xml 20461972 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/30-2013-ram-1500-crew-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/30-2013-ram-1500-crew-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Ram raises a quick $1 million for farmers with Super Bowl ad]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/10/ram-raises-a-quick-1-million-for-farmers-with-super-bowl-ad/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/10/ram-raises-a-quick-1-million-for-farmers-with-super-bowl-ad/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/10/ram-raises-a-quick-1-million-for-farmers-with-super-bowl-ad/#comments Filed under: , ,



While Chrysler has been behind the Super Bowl's most talked-about commercials for the past few years, this is the first year the automaker has added an element of charity to its marketing plans for the big game.

Chrysler aired a pair of two-minutes ads during the Super Bowl this year, one for Jeep called Whole Again, and the other for the Ram brand called Farmer. As we mentioned earlier in the week, Jeep has promised to give up to $300,000 to the United Services Organization (USO). The brand, whose own history is forever tied to this country's military, will donate $1 for every tweet with the hashtag #joinOSR, or visit to Yahoo.com or the Jeep Operation SAFE Return website.

Ram had somewhat loftier goals, pledging to give up to $1 million to the Future Farmers of America. The plan was to donate $100,000 for every 1 million times the commercial was seen, shared or emailed from its website. Now we have word from Ram brand chief Fred Diaz that the million-dollar goal has been reached less than five days after the ad first aired.

The ad has reportedly done wonders for Ram, as well, with traffic to its website up ten-fold and dealers reporting their showrooms are fuller than before, sometimes with people who just want to say how much the ad had touched them. If you feel moved to watch the ad again, feel free to scroll down below for the video.

Continue reading Ram raises a quick $1 million for farmers with Super Bowl ad

Ram raises a quick $1 million for farmers with Super Bowl ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 10 Feb 2013 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> charitydonationfarmerfuture farmers of americaramsuper bowl Sun, 10 Feb 2013 13:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20454303/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20454303/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/10/ram-raises-a-quick-1-million-for-farmers-with-super-bowl-ad/20454303/article-detail.xml 20454303 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ram-ad-farmer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ram-ad-farmer.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Promaster looks like a Fiat, hauls like a Ram]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/2014-ram-promaster-chicago-2013/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/2014-ram-promaster-chicago-2013/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/2014-ram-promaster-chicago-2013/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2014 Ram Promaster

A new day is dawning, folks. The old-guard vans of our youth are being replaced with a new flock of European-inspired commercial vehicles from the likes of Ford, Nissan (Renault) and Mercedes-Benz. Here in Chicago, Ram pulled the covers off its entry into the reborn commercial van market with the 2014 Promaster, based on the well-known European Fiat Ducato.

Ram makes no bones about the Promaster's Fiat underpinnings, though the company claims it has beefed up the machine for US roads and uses with a re-engineered chassis, a more robust suspension setup, improved brakes (from Brembo), additional corrosion protection, improved climate control and additional safety systems.

Power comes from one of two powerplants options, one gas and one diesel. First up is Chrysler's well-known 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 rated at 280 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. For a bit more pulling power and durability, Ram is offering a new 3.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine pumping out 174 hp and, more importantly, 295 lb-ft of torque at just 1,400 rpm. That engine sends its torquey goodness through a six-speed electronically controlled automated manual gearbox.

If you want the diesel, you'll be interested to know it carries 4,000 miles worth of urea diesel exhaust fluid. Oil change intervals are an impressive 18,500 miles apart, though - a bit odd, no? Ram is offering three different styles - Cargo Van, Chassis Cab or Chassis Cab Cutaway - and three wheelbase options, along with a low roof or high roof with or without an extended body. Max payload sits at 5,189 pounds and the max gross combined weight rating, with the diesel, is 12,500 pounds.

Have a gander at the massive press release below, but not before checking out our live images above.

Continue reading 2014 Promaster looks like a Fiat, hauls like a Ram

2014 Promaster looks like a Fiat, hauls like a Ram originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 ram promasterchicagochicago 2013chicago auto showpromasterram Thu, 07 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20453029/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20453029/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/07/2014-ram-promaster-chicago-2013/20453029/article-detail.xml 20453029 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-ram-promaster-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-ram-promaster-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Ram Promaster reporting for duty]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/2014-ram-promaster-reporting-for-duty/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/2014-ram-promaster-reporting-for-duty/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/2014-ram-promaster-reporting-for-duty/#comments Filed under: , , ,



We already knew Chrysler would be getting its own version of the Fiat Ducato for use as the 2014 Ram Promaster, but it was just a question of when and what changes would be made. Well now we know. Though far from conventional-looking, the new Promaster should give Chrysler a fullsize van that is more competitive than the old Ram Van and more affordable than the Mercedes-based Dodge Sprinter.

Chrysler says it made numerous changes to transform the Ducato into the US-friendly Promaster, and the biggest changes were made to the powertrains. Standard equipment on the Promaster 1500 is the widespread 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 rated at 280 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque paired, which, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, offers a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 11,500 pounds. Other models will get the 3.0-liter diesel inline four-cylinder producing 174 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, giving this version a GCWR of 12,500 pounds, and this engine is mated to a six-speed automated manual transmission.

Continue reading 2014 Ram Promaster reporting for duty

2014 Ram Promaster reporting for duty originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 ram promasterchicagochicago 2013chicago auto showcommercial vanpromasterram Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20444771/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20444771/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/07/2014-ram-promaster-reporting-for-duty/20444771/article-detail.xml 20444771 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/001-2014-ram-promaster-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/001-2014-ram-promaster-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ram Truck's <i>Gear Up!</i> hunting series teaches you how to gut a deer]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/ram-trucks-gear-up-hunting-series-teaches-you-how-to-gu/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/ram-trucks-gear-up-hunting-series-teaches-you-how-to-gu/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/ram-trucks-gear-up-hunting-series-teaches-you-how-to-gu/#comments Filed under: , ,

Gear Up! Hunting 101 series from Ram Pickups - host Megan teaches you how to process a deer - video screencap

Ram knows that hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts make up a key demographic of its trucks' sales, so late last year it started an Internet hunting video series called Gear Up! on YouTube hosted by a variety of attractive ladies dressed in camouflage. (Ram knows its target audience, eh?).

This series has been going since October, but it caught our eye with a recent episode that gives instructions on how to properly gut (or dress) a deer. There are no graphic images, but Megan (this episode's host) does provide detailed and frank - if slightly surreal - deer-processing tips in a cheerful tone. For example: "Begin sliding your knife up the deer's belly towards its neck" and "sever the final tubes of the rectum." Oh, and this gem: "At this point, you'll need to get a little limber and actually stick your hand and knife up through the hole that is now visible leading into the deer's throat..."

Keep in mind, this is one of the advanced videos, so if you're really trying to learn how to hunt deer, you should start from the earlier, beginner-level videos in this Hunting 101 series. Scroll down if you'd like to learn how to clean a deer carcass Ram-style, and we've even included a few of the other how-to videos (including how to choose a taxidermist!) in this somewhat bizarre lifestyle marketing series.

Continue reading Ram Truck's Gear Up! hunting series teaches you how to gut a deer

Ram Truck's Gear Up! hunting series teaches you how to gut a deer originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> deer cleaningdeer huntingdeer processinghow tohow to dress a deerhunthuntinghunting videoramram truckssportsmansportsmentaxidermisttaxidermyvenisonvideo Tue, 05 Feb 2013 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20448218/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20448218/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/05/ram-trucks-gear-up-hunting-series-teaches-you-how-to-gu/20448218/article-detail.xml 20448218 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ram-gear-up_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ram-gear-up.jpg <![CDATA[Watch the video that inspired Ram's <em>Farmer</em> Super Bowl commercial]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/04/watch-the-video-that-inspired-rams-farmer-super-bowl-c/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/04/watch-the-video-that-inspired-rams-farmer-super-bowl-c/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/04/watch-the-video-that-inspired-rams-farmer-super-bowl-c/#comments Filed under: , ,

Farms.com farming ad that inspired Ram Truck's 2013 Super Bowl ad

Chrysler may have the Super Bowl's most popular commercial for a third year in a row. Eminem and Eastwood helped it earn that distinction the last two years, and while Oprah did the voiceover for this year's Jeep ad, it's Chrysler's other spot that's in the running for Most Valuable Ad after the big game this year.

So where did the Ram brand's commercial about farmers come from? As it turns out, the ad appears to be inspired, shall we say, by a video produced by Farms.com that was uploaded to YouTube in June, 2011. Greg Mitchell of The Nation pointed out the similarities between the two in an article published this morning. The video uses the same speech given by famed radio broadcaster Paul Harvey played over a slideshow of farming images. It's the same concept as Ram's ad, though the truck brand did go out and commission its own images shot by very well-known photographers for its version.

Did Ram steal the idea? That does not appear to be the case. A message left on the Farms.com YouTube video says "Farms.com is pleased to be working with Ram Trucks and support the 'Farmer' Super Bowl commercial." When you play the video, a link even pops up to watch Ram's version.

We called the agency responsible for the ad, The Richards Group, for comment, and were referred to Chrysler. We have yet to hear back, but will update this post as soon as we do. You can watch the Farms.com video for yourself below, as well as the Ram ad, and we've mashed the two together in this doubled-up version you can watch here.

Continue reading Watch the video that inspired Ram's Farmer Super Bowl commercial

Watch the video that inspired Ram's Farmer Super Bowl commercial originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Feb 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chrysler farmerchrysler super bowlchrysler super bowl commercialfarmerfarmer super bowl adfarmingfarms.comramram trucksrichards groupsuper bowlsuper bowl adssuper bowl car commercialssuper bowl commercialsvideo Mon, 04 Feb 2013 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20447990/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20447990/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/04/watch-the-video-that-inspired-rams-farmer-super-bowl-c/20447990/article-detail.xml 20447990 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/screen-shot-2013-02-04-at-12.19-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/screen-shot-2013-02-04-at-12.19-opt.jpg -1 2