The 2003 Dodge Ram has long been the third most popular truck in America behind the Chevy Silverado and Ford F150. The '03 model year marks an attempt by Dodge to produce a great truck in nearly every category, mostly gain more notoriety. The new body styles of these trucks are more than impressive and actually are the most modern in appearance of any '03 pickup. One area that the Ram falls behind it's competitors is still fuel consumption, which lags behind for nearly every comparable model.
Dodge offers the same engines as previous models were equipped with. There is 3.7 liter V6, 4.7 liter V8, and a 5.7 liter V8. The later is a Hemi engine, known for it's power and smooth acceleration capabilities. The last time a Hemi engine was used before the '03 year was in the 1970's when they were used to power muscle. Consumers looking for a basic truck and don't have to haul heavy loads may find a 3.7 liter equipped 2003 Dodge Ram an adequate choice. If relatively large loads will need to be hauled then one of the V8 options is definitely preferred. The body and frame have been reinforced in recent years, making the Ram one of the most capable pickups in the hauling category. Combine the rugged frame with a Hemi engine and you have a class leader in hauling and towing capacities.
Trim packages available are the ST, SLT, and Laramie. Buyers looking for a basic work truck without the extra expensive features will probably be more than satisfied with what the ST has to offer. It doesn't come with a lot of power accessories or fancy features, but it does offer the raw work horse capabilities the 2003 Dodge Ram is known for. Those who want a little more comfort from their work truck should consider a SLT model. Each of these comes with full power accessories, AC, power driver seats, CD players, and many different optional cloth fabrics. Go another step further and you find the Laramie edition, marking Dodge's attempt at a luxury truck. The Laramie has standard features like full leather upholstery, expanded center consoles, cruise control, Hemi 5.7 liter V8 engines, and a variety of other features.
All models come with standard rear wheel drive drive, and optional 4 wheel drive on properly equipped models. Most models come with a 5 speed automatic transmission as standard equipment. Upper level models can be purchased with either sport or off-road suspension systems. An off road package has a raised body and sturdier suspension to climb over rocks and tough hills. Sports packages have been tweaked for better highway performance, even with heavy loads. There is also a work special package for the 2003 Dodge Ram St models that gives an extra value on additional features to make the truck a little more enjoyable.
As mentioned above, the fuel economy of all models still can't compete with other domestic pickups. That is probably due to the fact that they are relying on the same engines as they have for the last half decade. Overall though, the Ram remains a more than capable workhorse and it must remembered that while fuel economy lags, towing and hauling capacities are higher than practically any other competitor's comparable model.