The 2016 Ram 1500 with the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine is a popular choice for those seeking a balance between power and fuel efficiency in a full-size pickup truck. Here's a detailed review covering various aspects of the vehicle:

Engine and Performance

Engine:

  • The 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine produces 240 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque.

  • It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which helps in smooth power delivery and improved fuel economy.

Performance:

  • The EcoDiesel engine offers excellent torque, making it suitable for towing and hauling. It has a towing capacity of up to 9,210 pounds when properly equipped.

  • The 0-60 mph time is around 8 seconds, which is decent for a diesel truck.

Fuel Economy:

  • The EcoDiesel engine is known for its fuel efficiency, achieving around 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient options in its class.

Interior and Comfort

Interior Quality:

  • The interior of the 2016 Ram 1500 is well-appointed with high-quality materials, especially in higher trims.

  • Seats are comfortable and supportive, with ample legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats.

Technology and Features:

  • Available features include the Uconnect infotainment system with a 5-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreen, navigation, Bluetooth, and a premium sound system.

  • Higher trims offer luxury features such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a sunroof.

Cab Options:

  • The 2016 Ram 1500 is available in various cab configurations, including Regular Cab, Quad Cab, and Crew Cab, to cater to different needs for passenger and cargo space.

Exterior and Styling

Design:

  • The 2016 Ram 1500 retains its distinctive and rugged design, with a bold grille and a muscular stance.

  • Multiple trim levels and packages offer various styling options, including chrome accents, body-colored bumpers, and unique wheel designs.

Bed Options:

  • The truck offers multiple bed lengths, depending on the cab configuration, including 5'7", 6'4", and 8' options.

Ride and Handling

Comfort:

  • The Ram 1500 is known for its smooth ride, thanks to its coil-spring rear suspension, which is unique in the full-size truck segment. It offers a car-like ride quality, even on rough roads.

Handling:

  • Handling is composed, and the truck feels stable both on and off the road. It’s easy to maneuver despite its size, especially with available features like the rearview camera and parking sensors.

Reliability and Maintenance

Reliability:

  • The 2016 Ram 1500 has a mixed reputation for reliability. While the EcoDiesel engine is generally praised for its durability and fuel efficiency, some owners have reported issues with the emissions system and occasional engine-related problems.

Warranty:

  • The truck comes with a 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which covers the EcoDiesel engine.

Maintenance Costs:

  • Diesel engines typically have higher maintenance costs compared to gasoline engines, but the EcoDiesel's improved fuel efficiency can offset some of these costs over time.

Safety

Safety Features:

  • Standard safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags.

  • Optional safety features include a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, and a cargo-view camera.

Crash Test Ratings:

  • The 2016 Ram 1500 received decent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), though some competitors scored higher in crash tests.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Excellent fuel economy for a full-size truck.

  • Strong towing and hauling capabilities.

  • Comfortable and quiet ride.

  • Well-designed interior with quality materials.

Cons:

  • Higher maintenance costs associated with the diesel engine.

  • Mixed reliability reviews.

  • Some competitors offer better safety ratings.

Final Thoughts

The 2016 Ram 1500 with the 3.0L EcoDiesel engine is an appealing choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and towing capability in a full-size truck. It offers a comfortable ride, a well-appointed interior, and a variety of configurations to suit different needs. However, potential buyers should consider the higher maintenance costs and investigate the vehicle's reliability history before making a purchase.