CONCORD, N.H. (10/16/2012)(readMedia)-- Momentum can be a powerful force, and with 29 consecutive months of year-over-year sales growth through September, the Ram truck brand has a full head of steam behind it. The prospects of extending that streak are improving further this month with the arrival of the new 2013 Ram 1500, which offers new capabilities and class-leading fuel efficiency.
With 25,973 models finding new homes in the United States, Ram pickup truck sales were up 6 percent last month year-year-year, good for their best September since 2007. That strong performance in the showroom helped boost year-to-date sales by 20 percent compared to the same period in 2011, totaling 213,593 units.
"Ram trucks continue to earn fans as buyers realize they don't have to settle for a Chevy or a Ford to get the job done," said Brian Duval, general manager of Concord, New Hampshire Ram dealership Bob Mariano Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram. "With features like multi-coil rear suspensions, proven Cummins diesel engines and aggressive styling that stands out in the Home Depot parking lot, Ram pickups offer a different take on capability."
The 2013 model year is bringing even more unique features to the Ram 1500 truck, including a new eight-speed automatic transmission and Pentastar V6 engine that combine to return a best-in-class 25 mpg on the highway. Displacing 3.6 liters, the new V6 kicks out 305 horsepower, which is a stunning 110-horsepower advantage over the larger-displacement 4.3-liter V6 offered in the Chevy Silverado. In fact, that output even bests the 4.8-liter V8 unit offered in the Chevy by three horsepower. Of course, the venerable 5.7-liter Hemi V8 remains available in the 2013 Ram 1500, churning out 395 horsepower and 407 pound-feet of torque.
Inside, engineers have replaced the Ram 1500's column shifter with a dash-mounted rotary e-shift dial for the new transmission, which frees up more space for the center console and allows for greater control of gears. Rather than moving a shifter to change gears when towing or hauling, drivers can choose shifts using buttons on the steering wheel, allowing them to keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.
Among the optional features in the 2013 Ram 1500 is a new air suspension system that can level the truck when it is loaded to the brim with cargo, improving the handling while towing and hauling. The system can also lower the pickup to make it easier to load the bed or get in and out of the cabin. Another convenient touch is that the available RamBox bedside storage system and the tailgate are now tied in with the central locking system, so there is no need to double check that everything is locked when parking the truck.
"While the other truck manufacturers have settled into providing the same rehashed features year-in and year-out, Ram is pushing to bring new, useful amenities to the pickup market," Duval noted. "The new Ram 1500's combination of power, fuel efficiency and technology is going to make a serious dent in the market share of its rivals."
About Bob Mariano Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram:
New Hampshire Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler and Ram customers come to Bob Mariano Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram for unmatched attention to detail, whether they are searching for a new or used Jeep, financing a new Chrysler sedan, or looking for Dodge service and parts for a crossover, SUV or pickup truck. Their knowledgeable sales team can help you find the right car at the right price, while their parts and service specialists get you back on the road quickly and effectively. Put them to work for you by visiting www.bobmariano.com, calling 888-620-8708 or stopping by their dealership at 146 Manchester Street in Concord, N.H. You can also find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BobMarianoChrysler.