The old Ram 1500 lives alongside the all-new van

"By launching the all-new Ram 1500, we did not want to leave a significant part of the light truck market" said Honorary Chief Mike Manley. "Ram will continue to produce the 1500 Classic for commercial and entry buyers." As you've heard the man, the Classic is an honest truck for people who want exactly that.

The half-thunder we know since the 2008 North American Auto Show in Detroit will live in four trim levels. These are the Trader, Express, Big Horn (make this lone star in Texas), and SSV (meaning Special Service Vehicle). Available in three cab configurations and three bed lengths, the DT can be used with four- or four-wheel drive and no less than three powertrain options.

Those who are interested in fuel economy can opt for the 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel while the petrol engines come in the form of the 3.6-liter Pentastar and the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 . Unlike the fifth-generation Ram 1500, the Classic does not have the eTorque 48V light hybrid system that adds a motor / generator unit to the menu.

Featuring the suspension of the multi-link reel at the back for "Better driving qualities and maneuverability" The 1500 Classic can also be used with the RamBox charging management system. Speaking of options, the Chrome Plus set on the Tradesman adds chrome bumpers, a body-color upper dashboard, 17-inch wheels, keyless entry and carpeted flooring.

The Tradesman SXT, meanwhile, updates the 5-inch radio, the fog lights, the dual exhaust system for the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 and the 20-inch chrome wheels. Last but not least, the Black Accent Express group is offered on all the exterior colors of the Express, adding black painted wheels, lighthouse goggles and emblems.

The 1500 Classic is manufactured at Warren Truck Assembly in Michigan while the all-new model is manufactured at Saltillo Truck Assembly in Mexico. Regardless of the model chosen, the truck is covered by a five-year / 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.