The phrase “luxury pickup truck” is fairly new in the automotive world. These vehicles aren’t just used for dirty jobs anymore. To keep up with the wider customer base, pickups are quickly getting more technology and better interiors. The 2019 Ram 1500 is one of the latest trucks to get some new upgrades.

As usual, the Ram 1500 offers drivers many trim options, wheelbase and cabin sizes, special packages, and bed lengths. It also increased its towing capacity and now sports a brand-new grille design. However, its biggest improvements are under the hood and inside the cabin. Here are the two biggest reasons MotorTrend thinks you should buy the newest Ram 1500.

All the new infotainment

The 2019 Ram has a standard Uconnect infotainment setup with a 5-inch touchscreen. Other included features are a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, 3 USB ports, and a push-button start.

This is probably plenty for a less tech-savvy driver, but Ram also offers many additional upgrades. The touchscreen can either be 8.4 inches or an ample 12 inches. Apple Carplay or Android Auto is available, as well as two more USB ports, two traditional power outlets, HD or satellite radio, and an upgraded 19-speaker audio system.

The new Ram 1500 got excellent safety and reliability scores, partially due to the variety of driver’s assistance features offered. The standard rearview camera can be upgraded to a 360-degree camera system. To improve driving performance, you can get automatic parking assist, electronic locking rear differential, adjustable pedals, and many additional safety features.

Finally, there are a few more technical upgrades to help drivers who purchase the new Ram as a work truck. As always, the RamBox cargo management system is available. Three different axle ratios are offered depending on how much towing strength you need.

A hybrid drivetrain option

The other newest addition to the Ram 1500 is a new eTorque mild-hybrid system. It comes standard on the base V6 engine, which can produce 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. It can also be purchased for $1,450 on trims with the Hemi engine. This V8 is the most powerful engine available in this truck, with 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque.

With the new eTorque system, you get an additional 130 lb-ft of torque. It features regenerative braking and a stop-start function to get better gas mileage. Without the eTorque motor, the Ram gets 15 mpg on city roads and 22 mpg on the highway. The eTorque model brings these numbers up to 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the interstate. 

One area that needs improvement

Despite its powerful engines and different axle ratios, the Ram still couldn’t beat out its Ford rival in terms of towing. The new Ram has a maximum towing capacity of 12,750 pounds and a max payload of 2,300 pounds. The F-150 can tow 13,200 pounds and has a higher payload of 3,270 pounds. The two are around the same price point, so drivers who need bigger workhorses are likely to opt for the F-150.

Other changes

Even though it can’t tow as much as its competition, the Ram 1500 still got larger for the 2019 model year. It also reduced its curb-weight by 225 pounds. This improves its ride quality, making the truck easier to handle. The cabin is free from any bouncing or excess noise. For an even smoother drive, an air suspension can also be purchased.

Overall, the Ram 1500 is a very capable truck. It’s not as powerful as its competition, but its eco-friendly motor and extensive technology offerings definitely make it worth your money.