Our 2022 Ram 1500 Classic is almost as inexpensive as you can go, but we did opt for the 4×4 setup, and a few small options. Tommy and Roman took it on a road trip.
For 800+ miles, Roman and Tommy road-trip this small 2022 Ram 1500 Classic Tradesman, and evaluate its pros and cons. A base model “Classic” Ram starts at $37,095, with 4×4 and a few basic options, our comes in at $41,000. Fortunately, we paid about $37,800 after discounts. Keep in mind: this was a truck that sat at dealership, and we searched for weeks to find the least expensive full-size pickup. We’re fully aware that midsize and compact trucks cost less, but we wanted something beefier.
This base model, which is essentially a fleet truck, comes with a Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 that makes 306 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. It’s hooked up to an eight-speed automatic transmission, and it is a proper 4×4. Weighing in under 5,000 pounds, the power to weight ratio is pretty damn good, all things considered. Its tow rating is about 4,700 pounds, that’s based on its engine and 3.21 rear end. The extra weight of a 4×4 system. It is rated to haul up to 1,700 pounds, which is on par with some midsize and small pickups.
Our 2022 Ram 1500 Classic Tradesman is pretty stubby
Among the packages that came with this truck (we didn’t have the bandwidth to wait for an ordering one) we got the tow group package. It was the most important package for TFLTRUCK. It also came with a chrome front and rear bumper package and the keyless entry key. On top of that, it has SiriusXM, power windows and the carpet option as well.
Ever the cranky old man, Roman also complained about the hard plastic steering wheel. He thinks was taunting him as they drove their 800 miles. At the end of their journey, there was a bit of a discrepancy between the truck and calculator with MPG. To be fair, this truck has not been broken in, so the MPG and other performance numbers should be different – in time.
Check out this first drive and first impressions video:
