2020 Ram 1500 | Is EcoDiesel Right For you? | Steve Hammes

[@alexfekkos8260]

I just bought the 2020 version and have had it for about two months and I absolutely love it. Its an everyday driver for me, so the average around town MPG is around 23-to 26. Longer trips I have gotten around 28 (that was the first week I had it, so expect it to get better once it broken in). A few things I have noticed is that it does burn DEF a little more that expected. I thought it only burned it when you were in towing mode, but that doesn't seem to matter, I have filled it up once and topped it off another time in a two month period. Also on a pleasant surprise note, when using the remote start, if the temp is under 39 degrees, it automatically turns on the heated seats and steering wheel. Engine has plenty of pep (Not Hemi pep) and handles great.

[@4fastdrs]

Got my 2019 ram 1500 ltd, As a birthday present from the misses this summer. She bought it from my dad's dealership and had it brought in from Oregon. At the time it was the only one in Washington that has literally every option available $72000 rig. When I got it I couldn't have been happier, Tinted the windows Along with the front windshield and put new wheels and tires on the same week, Magnaflow exhaust. I didn't go with flow master because I am a realtor and didn't want it to be too obnoxious. It has now been in the Shop 4 times. And is currently at the dealership with no ETA on a fix for the current issue, going on 4weeks. This is my 6th FCA product in my life time And I can honestly say now that It will be the last. All of the vehicles have had issues which I have chalked up to not getting them brand new off the lot as the 1st owner, and not buying the best version of the vehicle available. My dad works at the dealership and I still receive terrible customer service just like any other customer. These trucks look amazing and certainly seemed to be a better deal then Chevy Ford and GMC can offer. But After you purchase the vehicle, you have to live with it and that's where the Ram falls short. The dealerships have little to no concept of customer service, and that is simply a matter of a top down lack of concern in that regard. And it shows up in the end product.

[@hellkitty1014]

What issues are you having where it's been in the shop 4 times? And, I may recommend you look at some of the horror stories of people with new GM and Ford trucks and their dealership experience too. I hope it works out for you.

[@1gr8oil]

Michael Daniels II .... I have a 2018 RAM LARAMIE with the Hemi Engine. I have 29 K on the odometer currently, and have had NO ISSUES at all! My dealership treats me very well too!

[@4fastdrs]

@@hellkitty1014 Sorry about the late response , I literally just saw that there was even one message let alone 3. They have all been electrical issues. Sometimes the side steps don't work properly either not opening when the door is opened or not going up when the door is closed, Several issues with the radio 12" display, And surround vision not working properly. The last word I heard from the dealership was that they were expecting a software update sometime before the end of the year and if there was not a software update by the end of the year they are going to replace the head unit. Along with cash And keep, and A new set of tires 305/55R20 Toyo open country ATII extreme. To avoid a lemon law claim. As for the other comments I'm sure that people have had nightmare experiences with other dealerships and I'm also sure of that not every ram 1500 that sold has these issues. This was just my experience that I am sharing with you all.

[@hellkitty1014]

The diesel is NOT $5000 over a Hemi. It is roughly $2400 over the E-torque. It is $5000 over the Pentastar. And Ram is the only make to allow a diesel on an absolute stripped Tradesman all the way up to a Limited.

[@ChristopherPaulBacon-m2l]

Yeah if you want the F150 diesel, you have to get a Lariat or higher unless you're a fleet customer. And for the high price, you might as well go with a Super Duty as they get the same mileage.

[@samtaylor8734]

Idk what your looking at but my dealer has option for option crew cab bighorns. One etorque hemi is 41k and the ecodiesel is 48k same damn truck dude same color too rear ends, everything

[@jjames2162]

My 2019 RAM Laramie crew cab loaded with the off road group and a/t tires gets 20-22 local and 24hwy - nicest car I’ve ever owned and I’ve owned tons of European luxury vehicles

[@youngblood23rb]

You must have the 3.21 rear end and drive Ms. Daisy, my Rebel with 3.92 best average is 18, around town 14, love the truck but the fuel economy is behind the pack honestly

[@jjames2162]

youngblood23rb I do have the 3:21 and the Rebel is known to have lower mpg due to the tires, extra weight, and no air ram that lowers at speed. I don’t drive like Ms Daisy but maybe you drive like a country jackass? - you have the nicest truck in its class - nicer than Ford or Chevy and miles past Toyota - enjoy it Happy Holidays

[@TheChakita44]

man this new RAM is wicked I love my 2017 limited ED but damn that new body, tailgate and interior

[@seanfritz1355]

As an owner of a 2014 Ecodiesel. Its the best truck I've had. And I've also driven a 2019 classic Hemi 2 wheel drive. Fuel mileage sucks. And I can agree with using for long commutes and towing. There great. Fuel mileage can't be beat for a 4x4or crew. DEF lasts a oil change cycle with no issues. And way cheaper from the pump then from a 2.5 gal jug. And they hold 8 gallons. The diesel clatter is much quieter in the gen 2 3.0 then what the gen 3 sounds like in the video. And there is no clatter in the last generation truck cab under acceleration. More of a buzz and if you open the intake up a bit there's a slight whistle from the turbo. But I can agree as well with you on the use. If you dont tow or do lots of driving I would stick to the gasoline engine. The E tourqe will help under moderate towing if needed. And acceleration can also be helped by NOT jamming on throttle. I know it's a review and every body wants to know how fast it will go under full throttle. But to get the best performance out of them is to roll into throttle and build boost evenly.

[@billseiler4952]

I agree that Ram has done a great job with this truck. Next time I am in the market this truck will be on the list

[@ogspooks]

Which trim level thou? 🤔

[@GarrettWorcester]

This truck forced its way onto my new car list, coming in May 2020. I'd love the Limited, but the Longhorn is supposedly comparable and slightly less expensive. The heart wants what the heart wants...

[@billseiler4952]

ogspooks I would probably go with the Ram Rebel or Limited

[@JJACK2024]

This dude is clearly biased 😂 terrible at hiding it 🤣

[@nosah8415]

There are a lot of great reviewers on KZbin, and I don't like to pit anyone against someone else, but I'm not sure why other reviews are 30 minutes long when Steve has the same quality content and then some in six minutes... Anyway. I like the Ram. I just wonder how long it will be until that tablet makes its way into other FCA products. Or any other brands for that matter. It just seems like tech overload.

[@stevehammes]

Thanks! Much appreciated!

[@CalvinHikes]

Some people just like watching them. So longer is better.

[@budagen]

I'm thinking exactly the same thing. I go watch Steve's reviews for the most concise review, answers most buyer's questions in mind. Presentation is great.

[@802louis]

no sah Can you make sure you get the fire stinger sure to keep your family safe with a fire burning truck that Chrysler Fiat knows about and don’t give a fuck

[@bob808]

I've got an earlier version of this engine in my (Australian) Chrysler 300. I always thought it was the old 5sp auto in my car making it slow, oddly glad to hear it's just the engine LOL My 300 is 7 years old with 66000km, no problems yet. Oh, my car returns about 25mpg predominantly city driving.

[@adrianharvey3511]

Great review .. ram is my favorite pick up...this thing is gorgeous and capable.. and I love the hemi and way it moves .. this diesel is interesting but I’d rather have that hemi .. I don’t know about e-torque though.... I think the big 3 are making sum really good trucks. .. one thing America has always been strong with .. pick ups and suvs

[@nobunaga-oda]

👍🏻

[@Moparornocar74]

Gotta remember that's a brand new diesel, and isn't broken in yet. The mileage is only going to get better

[@hellkitty1014]

Yup. And other KZbinrs are getting well into the 30s.

[@MrComputerCoder]

Can you explain why broken in engines get better fuel economy or performance?

[@Moparornocar74]

@@MrComputerCoder to boil it way down, a new engine is put together a bit on the tight side and therefore loses some efficiency and performance until the break in period is complete. If the engine wasn't put together slightly too tight when it was built it would become too loose and either run very poorly or self destruct. I hope this explanation helps

[@MrComputerCoder]

@@Moparornocar74 oh thank you very much. I'm not that knowledgeable enough about engines and was curious :)

[@802louis]

Charlie Denbigh Once it gets broken in the fire will occur and you’ll end up with nothing but a pile of junk just like Chrysler want you have a pile of fucking junk

[@tristonbowen9923]

My 2015 Laramie 1500 ecodiesel averages 29 mixed and 33 highway

[@williamdrijver4141]

Good review. Glad to hear the presenter isn't afraid to be critical of the truck, or FCA. This is how video tests should be! Hope this truck has an excellent warranty. Better wait a few years until they have sorted out the problems

[@stevehammes]

Thanks, William!

[@stronglikebull2994]

So the screen is NOT as difficult as you described. Why are you not using the steering wheels buttons? Scroll preset stations and track on the left, volume and source on the right. It has the quickest response and allows you to customize all the shortcuts for whatever you want. Which means you're not stuck with factory settings. Also you know if you like the theme of the any other trim you can apply that background to the screen? Have a Big Horn but want the background of the Rebel or Limited, change it in the settings. Oh and only the navigator touches the screen to change stations.

[@paladin11C40]

I ran the numbers for this in a Rebel model. The diesel was about 10k higher, fuel is .75 cents more per gallon, plus DEF, ended up being way more than I would save, so I got a 5.7L Rebel without etorque.

[@Pabla98]

The 360 cam can be configured to stay on for 30 seconds after shifting out of reverse and you can also configure a shortcut button in uconnect for it. Over the previous generation diesels I’ve heard horrible things reliability wise, the only thing it’s got going is MPG cause In my Hemi limited I get 13MPG in 60/40 city hwy driving

[@alfonsom8286]

13 mph is a no go for me, especially living here in SoCal, but if I were a billionaire I'd get two of them.

[@Pabla98]

alfonso m I mean in many other ways this truck is one of the best pickups on the market though

[@tjc20]

The other reviewer said it, but I'll agree: That was a well done, concise overview. I own the Longhorn version of the Ram 1500, and I wholeheartedly agree that the 12" touchscreen is bothersome. It looks amazing, but having to flip/scroll/touch multiple buttons or menus to change the temp, activate heated steering, or set the dual climate control is maddening. I would much rather have the 8" with physical knobs for climate control and other settings.

[@stevehammes]

Thanks very much!

[@donteadoss]

Great review as always! I believe it’s at least good to see trucks evolve - especially as pricey as they’ve been for quite a while. I personally find the tech, tailgate tricks, and other ergonomics companies are investing in trucks impressive these days.

[@70stunes71]

My '13 5.7 1500 4x4 gets 20 mpg with the 6 speed trans & I've kept it low mileage due to other vehicle usage. I can't see where $55k is better with the smaller diesel and slightly better mileage but far less horsepower. Plus mine is paid off lol . I'm sticking with the hemi. Warning to all hemi owners however: use excellent engine oil & keep it changed , they like cooking the needle bearings in the roller lifters due to high heat long idle times & it's no joke. Gotta maintain them well.

[@jacobliddell4351]

FYI...never calculate the mileage by what the trucks gauge says it is; it’s always wrong. Fill it up, drive it, fill it up again, and then divide the number of miles your drove by the amount of fuel you put in it. My 2018 EcoDiesel 4x4 gets nothing less than 23MPG city, and 30MPG highway without towing.

[@simonthompson7139]

That's a beautiful truck

[@youssefsabiri3860]

A piece of art ! American cars 👌🏻 the best !

[@youngblood23rb]

IDK if I can sacrifice the responsiveness of the Hemi, just for a few more MPEG's

[@Tinrs80]

That thing had some crazy Rims. Thanx for review.

[@stevehammes]

22s!

[@bosse641]

Just want a simple rugged affordable pickup for work and play. No tech. ...but, those days are long gone it seems. The last might be the current Nissan Frontier with a manual transmission. Old school.

[@youngblood23rb]

Buy it before that take that one away too!

[@Lokyr00]

Barebones leftover 2019 Ram 2500 4x4 Tradesman with the Cummins diesel are going for the low $40k's in the mid-Atlantic region.

[@treyroberts8124]

Just wait until Ram rereleases the Dakota. I read an article saying their goal was to offer it starting in the low 20,000s range. To be fair, that's probably a regular cab, long bed, V6. But for like 30,000 I'd say it's fair you could get a V8 or the EcoDiesel, four door, and an off-road package (hopefully)

[@cafebuilder]

Anyone with Eco-diesel. How's the engine now, in 2023, after driving it for over 2 years? I drive 50 miles a day for my commute. Any good and bad?

[@edlococo4106]

I have a problem putting a Fiat diesel engine in a Dodge Ram pickup. In addition, Chrysler has been accused of falsifying diesel emissions readings on this engine. What else are they lying about?

[@rkalla]

I think for 2020 the Hemi only comes as eTorque doesn’t it? EDIT: My bad, I was going through the Builder for a Limited (only v6 or v8+eTorque options) - but in other trims you can get the normal, non-eTorque V8 in 2020 still.

[@La-yt1wr]

No the 3.6 V6 also gets eTorque and possibly the 3.0 Turbo Diesel

[@stevehammes]

The V6 comes standard with it.

[@genius-no5sl]

I’m all about the eco diesel

[@lancelane217]

Nice review Steve!

[@stevehammes]

Thanks, Lance!

[@travelinben1966]

If you could get it with the Cummins,I’d seriously consider it.

[@fsugrad03]

Great review!👍👍

[@stevehammes]

Thank you!

[@MRHEAT20]

As always a great review

[@stevehammes]

Thanks, Ed!

[@ScottDLR]

It's just about perfect for me except i need an exhaust brake for coming down mountain passes with heavy trailer in tow. Current one has that and I wont buy until the Eco does.

[@vernlochtefeld1626]

ScottDLR I bought a tune for my 4th gen ED in part for the exhaust brake. I tow through the mountains it’s a great tool. Seems Ram thinks they need to protect uber stupid people from themselves. GMs on their 3.0 diesel is set very weak.

[@ScottDLR]

@@vernlochtefeld1626 That's good to know - thank!

[@damitbobby6677]

These things have too much lag.... punch the gas down pedal down it takes too much time for response. Kinda dangerous when you need to get out in traffic quickly. I stick with gas engines for the ram

[@brandonwright6659]

My '16 6.7 Cummins gets nearly the same MPG (20.7 avg)

[@sybo10]

Why is the 2020 EcoDiesel not being sold anywhere but there's all these video's on it? Not on Ramtruck.com, not at my dealers, only on youtube can you find these, kind of like a twilight zone episode

[@edwilson9243]

You obviously haven't driven/reviewed the new high output CUMMINS. It's pulls insain even out of the hole

[@stevehammes]

Ed Wilson You mean this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pnSTe5iQZdyno9U

[@MrAdamJoel]

Do you know when the 2920 Ecodiesel can be ordered or located? The website has yet to add it definitively.

[@stevehammes]

It's not on their retail site yet - I also noticed that. It's due in dealerships in the 4th quarter so I'd say any day now.

[@802louis]

Adam Aroeste Chrysler nose is burning up and they don’t care stay away from the fire burning Ness Ness

[@onoff314]

The diesel at $5K more makes no sense given the differences in fuel price, maintenance , lower towing and speed. If it was a much smaller difference then maybe if you are into Diesel

[@InvestBetter.]

Toyota's next Tundra, with a 450 HP Hybrid powertrain and the upcoming Ford F-150 Hybrid, may make the diesel obsolete. They will be far quieter, far faster, no fluids needed, and not cost an extra $5k to the price. If the diesel only gets 21 MPG, a hybrid will do far better than that too. And the diesel can't even tow 10k? In the years to come, hybrids will make you ask why diesel. Just as soon as diesel came in, it may be going out.

[@robertrichardson9953]

I'll keep my diesel

[@hellkitty1014]

Highly doubtful. Hybrid tech adds weight, further reducing capacity. And diesels become far more efficient the more they break-in. He averaged 21MPG, however there are others(FTL trucks and others) that have achieved well over 30MPG.

[@metalhead4404]

Good luck getting 500k miles on a hybrid truck. My 97 Cummins 2500 has that many miles and still runs as good as the day I bought it.

[@MattSmith-vl8zp]

He also didnt hand calculate at the pump. My 2017 seems to underestimate the mileage. Just highway I've gotten 26 in my 3.0 4x4. Like most of the comments here breaking in the engine and tranny will greatly help overall.

[@Lokyr00]

It would take years to recoup the initial and running cost of the diesel in mpg compared to the gas V8.

[@70stunes71]

Agree . I'll stay with my 5.7 hemi .

[@Munch3811]

I just have to ask, am I the only one who thought I was watching a news report? The entire video made me feel like there was a weather report coming up next. You even ended your video with a similar outro as news reporters

[@stevehammes]

My reviews are produced for local TV news. My background in TV is that of a weatherman. So you're spot on. Not many doing professional-style reviews anymore...especially on KZbin.

[@Martin-xh1hd]

Why can't the diesel tow more than the hemi?

[@stevehammes]

The diesel's added weight subtracts from the amount the truck can safely tow.

[@treyroberts8124]

It can in other packages, at least according to the specs. This is based on the ones I've built and priced Rams official website.

[@amininshassi6370]

I thought the max towing for the 2020 RAM 1500 EcoDiesel is 12,550lbs.

[@brucekather4732]

When you add options the weight those options is subtracted from the towing capacity. so a fully-equipped truck would have less capacity than a stripped truck and a short cab more capacity there a crew cab, etc

[@amininshassi6370]

@@brucekather4732 Yeah.

[@treyroberts8124]

The Limited is the last truck I expect to ever break 10,000 pounds towing anyways. And very few of the people that buy a gas engine ever max it out either.

[@mr.commander3947]

I like the way it looks at the exterior, especially the front grill with the RAM logo, to me, such appearance not to be outdone by GMC sierra. but since the Gm 's interior has a better and more comprehensive display, I rather go for GMC or chevy.

[@mtnx7]

An Italian, Fiat made diesel... You know this is gonna be an endless money pit.

[@scottfurlong5475]

It's no more of a money pit than Ford or GM. If you buy domestic brand vehicles, I think you've signed on for more frequent repairs and you knew it straight out of the gate.

[@mtnx7]

@@scottfurlong5475 some are much worse than others...

[@charlieking9214]

Have two limited gen 2 4x4's and we did have some problems with one do to Boshe fuel systems. Ram made it good. New Limited 4x4 Eco will be in at Eugene Or Ram in two weeks. Best pickups we've ever had baring the various Ram 2500 3500 and 5500's we own. My recommendation is to give them a fair chance. We gave Ford and Chevy the chance and never came through. The truth is, the VM Motari has been around quite a while, and has run a version of this engine in many different platforms and had good luck with it. Everything from the Maserati Ghibli to medium duty delivery trucks. Good luck with whatever you decide to purchase.

[@brucekather4732]

I'm on my second eco diesel. First one was great so I bought another.

[@vernlochtefeld1626]

Mateen S Fiat builds the same amount of the ED engine as they do the Hemi & Pentastar .. zero. BTW speaking as an actual owner 281,000 on my 2nd ED no problems so far.

[@kane6106]

The diesel suffer from the EPA. Shame, because in Europe they're everywhere and last forever. ps. Pedal commander. That will fix the sluggishness by adjusting throttle response. Its literally night and day.

[@stevehammes]

That's what I've heard, as well. Thanks.

[@jamesclaussen5329]

I now have a 2011 2500 6.7. What a a truck. Pull 34’ Avion. No strain. Diesel prices as they are. .40 to .90 cents a gallon ABOVE gas ??? Wow. IfI pulled full time or professionally .... 6.7 would win. Hemi would perform acceptably and reduce my fuel costs. Especially when not pulling ~ 9,090 #. I now get ~ 12 mpg ( 65-70 )pulling and 18+ empty ( 70-80) interstates. Big decision. The 6.7 is great

[@KemalEjder1980]

great Truck

[@genius-no5sl]

Awesome truck for sure

[@802louis]

Thank You If you looking for your burning mass

[@charlesdu9941]

didnt they putt a recall out on these and stop all sales?

[@stevehammes]

I've heard nothing.

[@charlesdu9941]

@@stevehammes weird. I was actually at a Dodge dealer last night looking to buy the 1500 ecodiesel. Apparently they just put a recall out and stopped all sales. They wouldn't even let me test drive it. Dodge found a problem that they couldn't fix

[@stevehammes]

Charles Du Wow! Thanks for the tip. I’ll call my Ram contact tomorrow and investigate.

[@charlesdu9941]

I'd be interested to hear. Normally I'd assume the dealership is lying. But I see no reason why they'd actively try and stop me from buying a truck haha

[@natehibbard7457]

The recall is only on the previous ecodiesel design generations (2014-2019), 2020 new gens are not part of the recall.

[@jumperman1773]

Nice truck bad rims. Need higher sidewalls, will damage easily.....

[@macrichardson7440]

Many good points to this video. Once again, Ram did not put enough engine points into this truck to make the 5,000.00 upgrade worth it. The truck needs more physical punch power, not sloth drive. Granted the vehicle is gorgeous inside and out, but its a pussy power wise. I was hoping for a big boy V8 diesel,,,,,,,,,but again, disappointed .

[@toufiklebciralgeria1541]

Good !

[@802louis]

Make sure you get a fire stinger sure gonna need one fire stinger sure not included

[@802louis]

Daniel Hernandez Your meeting with Shaggy parts and they will catch on fire Chrysler knows this and does not care somebody will die or get badly injured is that what you want

[@treyroberts8124]

@Daniel Hernandez it's honestly kind of funny how mad this guy is. I've noticed a dozen comments.

[@BoatingCharlie]

Your way off on towing capabilities and yes it does tow more then the Hemi.

[@stevehammes]

All of my information is 100% accurate. Check yourself.

[@BoatingCharlie]

No your not....towing is 12560. You stated 9000 Check yourself 😝

[@stevehammes]

Does this look like a 4X2 Quad Cab long box to you? Because that’s what you need to get that number.

[@BoatingCharlie]

Your right SORRY I had to look it up and see that it is 9540 for what you drove in the video. Dealership has been telling me a 4x4 crew cab with the 3.0 could tow 1250. Thanks for the correct info!

[@802louis]

🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@Jb74W]

A Ram with a diesel engine made by Fiat is never a smart choice.

[@damaliamarsi2006]

That's maybe at 35k dollar truck, maybe.

[@802louis]

😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

[@JJACK2024]

Why is this idiot flooring a pick-up truck like it's a racing vehicle dam he's stupid 😂

[@stevehammes]

Isn't your handle "play hard?" And if you don't mind a "stupid" person correcting you...pickup isn't hyphenated and the word you were looking for was "damn."

[@JJACK2024]

LOL 🤣

[@ES-fr3yz]

Fiat=fix it again Tony.

[@mustasheolll2020]

Ugly truck

[@user-cx2bk6pm2f]

Awesome review Steve!

[@stevehammes]

Thanks, G!