MotorTrend just came out with their choices for the “Best Pickup Truck to Buy in 2020.” The 2020 Ram 1500 is at the top of the list, being named the “Best Full-Size Pickup Truck of the Year.”

They went as far as to say that “there may not be a better truck in the history of ever than the current Ram 1500.” With such a bold statement, there has to be a lot to love about this pickup.

High points of the Ram 1500

The current Ram 1500 is a product of the redesign that happened in last year’s model. The overhaul caused the industry to take notice as sales skyrocketed. The Ram 1500 won the MotorTrend Truck of the Year back to back in 2019 and 2020, leaving the competition to wonder how to keep up.

The high-end plush interior, similar to what is found in a Mercedes-Benz or BMW, makes the truck feel more like a luxury automobile. In fact, Cars.com named the 2020 Ram 1500 as the “Luxury Vehicle of the Year,” marking the first time a truck has ever won in this category.

The Head of Ram Branding stated, “This award validates Ram’s unrelenting efforts to deliver more comfort, refinement, and value to our customers.” Cars.com felt that the unconventional choice was warranted because of the “exceptional design, ride quality, features, and luxury appeal.”

The Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited trim levels offer the most interior luxury. Three engine choices beat out the competition, and the best of class technology is abundant. A 12-inch vertical touchscreen complements the easy-to-use infotainment system, providing a comfortable ride for both the drivers and passengers.

Highlights of the 2020 Ram 1500 include a multifunction tailgate, superior rear suspension system, and innovative cargo management areas.

A few things that MotorTrend didn’t like

As with most things, nothing is perfect. The award-winning pickup truck is lacking when it comes to price. The MSRP is $32,145, which continues to rise as the features improve. With the 2020 Chevy Silverado and 2020 Ford-F150 starting at around $28,000, the Ram 1500 may be pricing itself out of the market.

Towing capacity is also an issue. The base model of the Ford F-150 can handle 7,600 pounds, while the Ram 1500 maxes out at 7,320 pounds. The larger 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost engine in the Ford F-150 can tow up to 13,200 pounds and haul 3,240 pounds.

The V8 engine in the Ram 1500 has a towing limit of 12,750 pounds and a hauling maximum of 1,720 pounds. Despite the benefits of a Ram 1500, it doesn’t have enough towing power to compete with the infamous capabilities of Ford. Truck owners who want to tow a recreational vehicle or boat will certainly look at these numbers when deciding on what wheel they want to sit behind.

What makes the Ram 1500 stand out among the competition

The controlled ride combined with advanced tech features propels the Ram 1500 above the Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado. The luxury truck comes equipped with the option of a turbodiesel V6 engine that produces up to 260 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque.

An eight-speed transmission is standard in all models with a 48-volt hybrid assist system on the V6 models. Gas engine choices include a 3.6-liter V6 and a 5.7-liter V8 that offer superb gas mileage.

The upscale cabin is where the Ram 1500 blows away the competition. Tons of interior room provides a comfortable ride filled with innovative and luxurious features. According to MotorTrend, the unique coil-spring rear suspension and optional air ride system allow for a “smoother-than-average ride” compared to other pickup trucks in the class.

MotorTrend advises consumers that “If you want the best full-size half-ton pickup truck, you want a Ram 1500.”