Over the past few years, trucks have evolved from an essential part of the workday to a vehicle for the everyday driver. Of course, the tough and rugged work truck still exists, but it’s been paired with a thoughtful interior, advanced safety features, and updated technology that offers improved functionality, performance, and fun. These changes have caused more and more drivers to consider a truck, and the Ram 1500 for sale is a strong choice.

Our team at Ruge's Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram has a wide selection of Ram trucks in stock. We also have the most recent information on new Ram trucks headed our way, which gives you the support and knowledge you need when choosing which Ram 1500 is right for you. This means we can walk you through the 2024 Ram 1500 as well as answer questions about the up-and-coming 2025 Ram 1500. Either way, selecting a Ram 1500 provides you with the power and durability you need.

Ram Tough: From Then to Now

Ram trucks—which have been long known for strength, toughness, and longevity—originated from the Chrysler Corporation's Dodge Division. Dodge debuted the Ram lineup of trucks in 1981. The ram's head logo on the sides stood out against the truck's clean lines, which resembled the Dodge D-series. The ram emblem—which stands for fortitude and tenacity—along with large, wraparound tail lamps and modern headlamps laid the groundwork for a legacy that would soon become legendary.

Inside, this first generation offered a newly styled bench seat as well as a modern dash that offered better readability with a three-pod design. The truck’s layout allowed for the rear window to be opened for ventilation, as well as other features that made the ride more enjoyable, such as cruise control, air conditioning, and more. The debut of the Dodge Ram was successful, with both businesses utilizing trucks for their day-to-day work and individual drivers.

Changes to the pickup truck over the next few years included a 5.9L V8 engine in 1989, along with an anti-lock braking system. Additionally, to answer demands regarding fuel efficiency, an overdrive automatic transmission was introduced. This transmission, which also included a toggle button to turn it off, was available for both the V8 and the 3.9L V6 engine.

Perhaps the biggest change to the first generation of Dodge Ram trucks was the addition of the Cummins B series to the engine lineup, which provided the truck with even better performance than before, as well as renewed interest in the line. Over the next few years and generations, Dodge continued to make improvements to the truck line, shifting with the needs of drivers and improving the truck both inside and out. However, in 2009, when the Chrysler Group was reorganized, the Dodge Ram became Ram, and that’s how the brand is still known today.

The choice not only gave the company the freedom to concentrate only on trucks, but it also allowed Ram’s engineers to push the limits of technology and design. For instance, its innovative RamBox Cargo Management System—offering safe storage options built right into the truck bed—set a precedent in the industry. In addition, the latest Ram 1500 trucks have garnered numerous awards from revered automotive publications.

2024 Ram 1500 vs 2025 Ram 1500

What does the Ram lineup offer drivers today? A closer look at the current model, as well as what is up and coming for the brand, is detailed below...

2024 Ram 1500

When it comes to choices, the Ram pickup line offers you more than a handful. In fact, you can choose from eight trims, all offering the same rugged warranties. Those warranties include five years of the Diesel Powertrain Limited Warranty, Roadside Assistance, Rust-Through Warranty, and Gas Powertrain Limited Warranty. In addition, you gain flexibility with the available Multifunction tailgate, providing easier access with the combination of split swing-away doors or traditional tailgate.

Other amenities of the 2024 Ram 1500 include an available Head-Up Display, which gives you information regarding fuel efficiency, incoming communication, and navigation, as well as the Center Console and Charging Station to keep your digital devices organized and ready to go. And speaking of “ready to go,” you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips thanks to the available UConnect 5 NAV with a 12.0-inch touchscreen. This touchscreen gives you the ability to zoom in and out, access your favorite apps, and more. There’s also an available Digital Rearview Mirror, which gives you a clear view of the road behind you.

Beyond functionality and updated technology, you’ll also gain dynamic performance thanks to the Ram 1500 engine options. These include the 5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque, the 3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque, the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 with eTorque, and the Supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8. If you're curious about eTorque, it’s described as a mild hybrid system that replaces the traditional alternator with a 48-volt battery-powered belt-drive motor generator; this system gives you better performance, better efficiency, and better towing capabilities. And speaking of towing, the Ram 1500 is capable of towing up to 12,750 lbs, depending on the trim and trailering options.

2025 Ram 1500

For the upcoming model year, Ram's news is already buzzing. The 2025 Ram 1500 is slated to be the most powerful yet while still keeping many of the features that drivers love most from the current model year. However, it also brings a long list of upgrades, some of which are outlined below...

Tungsten Trim: The available Tungsten trim gives the exterior of the Ram 1500 sophisticated lines and nods to luxury thanks to the 22-inch aluminum wheels. On the inside, it offers premium leather seating in the front and enhanced comfort with 24-way power front seats that keep you and your front seat passenger cooled or warmed, depending on your preferences. Even better? The seats keep your favorite settings in their memory.

Walk-Up Animation: This available feature is your own personal light show. The brand-new light-up grille design and the Ram name illuminating the area in front of the driver’s door will welcome you as you approach your new 2025 Ram 1500.

High-Strength Steel Frame: The 2025 Ram 1500 is not only built tough but it’s also supported by a 98% steel frame. In addition, you have the option to choose the class-exclusive Active-Level Four Corner Air Suspension system that reduces drag and increases performance as you travel down State Route 308.

The 2025 version of the Ram 1500 also gives you a new twin-turbo 3.0L inline-six engine option, which gives you 540 hp in addition to an available power tailgate and an available 23-speaker Klipsch audio system. It’s worth noting that you can also choose the 3.0L inline-six engine with 420 hp and that the inline-six replaces the HEMI V8 from the 2024 model year. Additionally, you can now increase your view in regard to technology with the option of the available 14.5-inch touchscreen. Plus, your front-seat passenger can stay engaged during the drive with an available 10.3-inch screen of their own.

Finally, the 2025 model year will introduce the Ram 1500 REV EV and the Ramcharger plug-in hybrid for those interested in reducing their carbon footprint while still driving a tough and commanding pickup truck.

Check Out the Ram 1500 Lineup Today

The lineage of Ram's trucks adheres to ingenuity, tenacity, and satisfying the wide range of demands that today's truck drivers have. And while the 2024 Ram 1500 offers a plethora of amenities that provide functionality, comfort, convenience, and more, there’s even more innovation headed your way with the upcoming 2025 Ram 1500.

Our team at Ruge's Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram can help you find the right Ram 1500 for you in stock or answer questions you have about the upcoming model year. Either way, we’re sure you’ll find what you need to help you navigate Rhinebeck’s streets and beyond, whether you use the truck for work or play. Stop in today and talk with your team to review your options and take a test drive.