One-Year Test Update: 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 HD
We can all agree that fuel mileage is on everyone's mind including ours
/ By Neil G. Chirico
/ Photography by Frank Markus, the Manufacturer
/
Article provided by: Motor Trend Magazine
Even though our long-term Dodge Ram HD is nearing the end of its tour of duty, it's not getting much rest. It made its way north from sunny, buggy Florida to the oft-frozen tundra that can be Detroit. As soon as it arrived, it was again chosen for towing detail--no surprise there. "Just used the Ram to haul the Camry ice-racer 400 miles. What a great tow rig! Stable, secure, easy-to-manage Hemi gets 10 mpg, and it doesn't feel overwhelmed by the 5500 pound rig."
Not everyone agreed: "Hemi feels only adequate, not quick, in this big, heavy truck." While we may differ on our opinions about the Ram we can all agree that fuel mileage is on everyone's mind including ours: "Every time I refuel the mighty Ram I look forward to the mild hybrid drivetrains pushing full-size-truck fuel economy to 20 mpg." But moving mountains takes power, and making power uses fuel. The 18,000-mile service came due and included an oil/filter change, lube, tire rotation, and brake inspection for $94.43.
| 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 HD |
| Base price | $31,100 |
| Price as tested | $38,895 |
| Vehicle layout | Front engine, 4wd, 4-door, 5-pass |
| Engine | 5.7L V-8, OHV, 2 valves/cyl |
| SAE net hp @ rpm | 345 @ 5400 |
| SAE torque @ rpm | 375 @ 4200 |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| 0-60 mph, sec | 8.1 |
| EPA mpg | Not rated |
| Total mileage | 19,487 |
| Average test mpg | 12.2 |
| Problem areas | None |
| Maintenance cost | $210.07 |
| Normal-wear cost | $0 |