The Ram 1500: The Best Truck on the Road Today

Shopping for a new truck means finding a reliable partner for work, family, and adventure. The Ram 1500 leads with its blend of rugged power and premium comfort, surpassing competitors with top-tier engine options, towing muscle, and standout reliability. Here in Urbandale, Stew Hansen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT has been the trusted name in Ram trucks for drivers across central Iowa—and we’d love to help you find yours. In this guide, discover why the Ram 1500 is the best in its class—and how to choose the right trim and features for your needs.

Powertrain Options

The legendary HEMI® V8 set the standard, and Ram continues to raise the bar with new high-output, twin-turbo inline-six engines that top V8s in both horsepower and torque. Mild-hybrid technology integrates advanced electric motor systems to optimize low-end torque, delivering faster acceleration and improved everyday efficiency.

Towing & Payload

The Ram 1500 is engineered for real-world capability. Key towing and hauling features include:

• Exceptional maximum towing capacities for boats, trailers, and heavy machinery
• High-strength steel frame for stability under maximum load
• Trailer Reverse Steering Control via a simple dash-mounted dial
• Blind Spot Monitoring calibrated for trailer length
• Integrated trailer brake controller
• 360-degree advanced camera systems
• Durable, high-volume truck bed for maximum payload

Suspension & Ride

The class-exclusive multi-link coil-spring rear suspension delivers passenger-car smoothness without sacrificing capability. The available Active-Level Four-Corner Air Suspension automatically adjusts ride height for highway efficiency, off-road clearance, or easy loading.

Technology & Safety

The available large vertical Uconnect touchscreen is praised for crisp graphics and intuitive menus, with split-screen capability and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety features include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Keep Assist
• Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking
• Pedestrian Detection
• Hands-free driving assist for highway driving

Off-Road Capability

Off-road-focused trims like the Rebel and RHO feature specialized shocks, upgraded control arms, electronic locking rear differentials, robust steel skid plates protecting critical components, and aggressive all-terrain tires engineered to bite into mud, sand, and snow.

Reliability & Value

Ram engines and transmissions undergo millions of miles of rigorous testing in the harshest environments imaginable. Stellantis backs the Ram 1500 with robust warranty coverage, and strong market demand means Ram trucks hold their value exceptionally well at trade-in.

A Trim Level for Every Lifestyle

• Tradesman: Built for pure, unadulterated work. It strips away the unnecessary frills to focus on maximum utility and durability.
• Big Horn: The perfect middle ground for the driver who uses their truck for the daily commute, weekend home improvement projects, and family road trips. Big Horn brings a massive boost in style and comfort without losing an ounce of capability.
• Laramie: The intersection of rugged utility and premium luxury; the ideal configuration for those who work hard during the week and want to travel in sophisticated comfort on the weekends.
• Rebel: Perfect for those looking to tackle muddy trails, rocky inclines, or deep snow. It delivers the performance and confidence you need to explore the wild.
• Limited: Features real wood accents, premium quilted leather upholstery, massive touchscreen displays, and a ride quality that is impossibly smooth.
• RHO & TRX: Ram’s high-performance trucks, engineered for extreme off-road performance.

Why Buy from Stew Hansen?

Stew Hansen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT has been a fixture in the Urbandale community and across the Des Moines metro for years, and we’ve built our reputation on doing right by our customers. From our expansive inventory of new and pre-owned Ram trucks to our dedicated work truck division, we make it easy to find exactly what you need. Our finance team works quickly and transparently to help you secure the right loan or lease, and our collision center and certified service technicians provide ongoing peace of mind long after your purchase. Whether you’re a farmer, a contractor, or a family looking for the perfect weekend hauler, Stew Hansen is your Urbandale Ram destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does the Ram 1500 compare to the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado?

The F-150 is a highly capable truck with strong towing numbers, but its interior refinement and ride quality cannot match the smooth, luxurious experience of the Ram 1500. The Silverado offers solid V8 options, but its cabin design and technology integration feel a step behind Ram’s intuitive Uconnect system and premium materials. The Ram 1500 succeeds by refusing to compromise—proving that you can have best-in-class capability alongside best-in-class luxury.

Q: What makes the Ram 1500’s ride quality different from other trucks?

Ram revolutionized the industry by abandoning traditional leaf-spring rear suspensions in favor of an exclusive multi-link coil-spring rear suspension. This design provides passenger-car levels of ride smoothness and handling precision without sacrificing payload or towing capacity. The truck corners confidently, absorbs potholes effortlessly, and eliminates the jittery ride associated with traditional pickups. The available Active-Level Four-Corner Air Suspension further enhances comfort and versatility.

Q: What towing and payload technology does the Ram 1500 offer?

Ram takes the stress out of towing with a comprehensive suite of trailering technology. Trailer Reverse Steering Control allows precise backing using a simple dial on the center console. Blind Spot Monitoring automatically accounts for the length of your trailer. Integrated trailer brake controllers and advanced camera systems offering 360-degree views of your rig round out a package that makes towing feel effortless, regardless of load size.

Q: Is the Ram 1500 a good long-term investment?

Yes. Ram engines and transmissions undergo millions of miles of rigorous testing in extreme environments—from the scorching deserts of the Southwest to the freezing tundras of the North. Stellantis backs the Ram 1500 with robust warranty coverage (10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty), giving owners total peace of mind. Because of their high demand, excellent build quality, and timeless styling, Ram trucks hold their value exceptionally well, making them one of the most reliable used pickup trucks to buy and an exceptional new vehicle to own.

Ready to Build Your Ram Truck?

The Ram 1500 is more than just a vehicle; it is an enabler of your lifestyle. Whether your definition of a good day involves moving mountains of dirt on a job site, rock crawling in the desert, or taking a peaceful road trip with your family, there is a Ram truck designed to get you there. Visit Stew Hansen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT in Urbandale today—explore our lineup, compare the trims, and build and price your perfect Ram 1500. Your next great adventure is waiting.