The Ram brand has grown so much such the days it was under Dodge that it has split and become separate companies, focusing on trucks and work vans. The Ram name has grown over the past decade, and their leading truck, the Ram 1500, has become a favorite for many truck drivers.

While the Ram name is known for having great trucks, they are also known for offering trucks at a very affordable price, and that trend still holds today, where there are still several 1500 trucks available from Ram that start under the $40,000 price point. Here is everything you need to know about the 2023 Ram 1500 trucks that start under $40,000.

2023 Ram 1500 specs and features

The 2023 Ram 1500 comes in a whopping eight different trim levels to fit just about every truck buyer’s need. According to Stellantis, for 2023, the Ram is getting some significant upgrades, including a 12-inch frameless gauge cluster, 22-inch all-terrain tires, rear-seat reminder alert, and with some trim levels, there is a UV-C glove box light that kills bacteria.

The 2023 Ram 1500 comes equipped with a V6 or V8 engine connected to an eTorque 48-volt mild hybrid system that delivers increased fuel economy at every trim level and powertrain option. On the high end, the Ram 1500 is capable of up to 703 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque in its 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 option.

Ram 1500 models below $40,000

If you are looking to get behind the wheel of a Ram 1500 and you’re looking to save some money, there are still a few options available for you, including the base model Ram 1500 Tradesman, which starts at $37,410.

You are limited to a 3.6-liter V6 engine with an automatic transmission and a rear-wheel drive drivetrain in this option. However, you still get a 6-foot, 4-inch bed and a four-door cab, leaving you with a ton of hauling and passenger space.

If the Ram 1500 tradesman isn’t enough for you, you can also grab a Ram 1500 Tradesman HFE for under $40,000, coming in at $39,047 MSRP. The Tradesman HFE is a basic Ram Tradesman with an emphasis on high fuel efficiency, which is what HFE stands for in the model name.

The Tradesman HFE only comes in rear-wheel drive and a 6-foot, four-inch quad cab body style. The only engine options are the basic 3.6-liter V6 found on the base model Tradesman and a 3.0-liter diesel V6 to maximize fuel economy.

With the 3.6-liter V6, you can expect a fuel economy of 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. For the diesel powertrain, this truck can reach 23 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. For the Tradesman HFE, there is a $320 increase in sticker price over last year’s model.

What are the best Ram 1500 models?

According to Edmunds and Car and Driver, the two best Ram 1500 models are the Ram 1500 Laramie and the Ram 1500 Rebel. The Ram 1500 Laramie is applauded by many for its smooth ride and unbelievably quiet interior while driving. Even the powerful V8 engine is only a light rumble under normal driving conditions.

The Laramie model also comes standard with leather-trimmed seats, an optional 12-inch display, an optional sunroof, and heated front and rear seats with front seats featuring ventilation as well.

Car and Driver’s choice for the best Ram 1500 is the Ram 1500 Rebel, especially with the optional V8 engine and four-wheel drive. The Ram 1500 Rebel is also available with sie suspension, which includes selectable ride height. Also available is a 115-volt power outlet, remote start, adaptive cruise control, multifunction tailgate, front and rear parking sensors, power-adjustable pedals, and hands-free entry.

Regardless of which Ram 1500 model you choose, you can get a competent and impressive pickup truck on any budget.