30 Days Of 2013 Ram 1500: Photo Gallery
Our month with the 2013 Ram 1500 is about half over, so it's time to switch gears. The Ram's been... Read More
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'Good,' frontal and rear impact; 'moderate,' side impact and roof strength
Four stars, frontal impact
SAFETY | 6 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
'Good,' frontal and rear impact; 'moderate,' side impact and roof strength
IIHS
Four stars, frontal impact
NHTSA
With new safety features available on many trim levels, the 2013 Ram 1500 may in fact improve upon the real-world safety of the previous version. But that previous version had some difficulty in crash tests from both agencies performing them on a regular basis, while a new frame design could yield significant improvement--so we've given the new truck a relatively moderate score until further data is available.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) hasn't yet tested the Ram 1500 for side impact, but it gives these trucks a 'good' rating for frontal impact. Unfortunately its roof strength score is only "marginal," and with the roof only able to withstand 2.97 times its weight, it's actually below the standards for passenger cars. Last year's model was rated only marginal for side safety, too.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has given the Quad Cab and Crew Cab versions of the Ram 1500 four stars overall, although it hasn't yet extended last year's three-star side-impact scores to the 2013 model.
This year, the Ram 1500 returns with the mandatory airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction and stability control. All models now come with hill-start assist, which maintains braking until the gas is engaged on an uphill ascent, and trailer-sway control, which uses anti-lock braking to mitigate the wagging effect induced when towing.
On the features list, all models offer a rearview camera either as an option or as standard equipment; rear parking sensors are available or standard on all body styles except the regular-cab versions. The more expensive Laramie and Longhorn editions also offer adjustable pedals, a boon to shorter drivers in particular. Blind-spot detectors aren't offered, but large, folding trailer side mirrors enhance visibility, which is mostly excellent--though we still recommend the rearview camera due to the Ram's high tailgate.
The Ram's new Uconnect Access system also links the truck to emergency 911 service, in case of an accident.
Conclusion
The Ram 1500 has a respectable feature set, but crash-test ratings haven't been reassuring.
