On this page, we detail the Ram 1500 body styles by year. Since the truck’s debut in 1981, it has been one of the most impressive vehicles on the road in the United States. Every model is rugged and dependable, but there are differences between the Ram 1500 generations as the pickup has evolved. The Spartanburg CDJR team has put together this guide to help you learn about the different versions of this truck.
The newest Ram 1500 marks a mid-generation refresh for the vehicle. While it is still considered a fifth-generation model, the 2025 model boasts a new engine option, redesigned exterior lighting, and other improvements. It’s a superb choice for drivers who value power and style.
The 2025 Ram 1500 comes standard with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine that produces up to 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. Models with this engine can tow up to 8,110 pounds.1 The other two engine options are even more muscular.
Drivers can opt to equip their new Ram 1500 with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder Hurricane engine that makes 420 horsepower and 469 pound-feet of torque. If you opt for this setup, you’ll enjoy a maximum towing capacity of 11,550 pounds.1 The last choice is a High-Output 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder Hurricane engine that provides up to 540 horsepower, 521 pound-feet of torque, and a maximum towing capacity of 9,920 pounds.1
The redesign of this truck for the 2025 model year also includes a new set of wheel designs to consider, larger digital displays, and updated exterior lighting. Mid- and top-tier trims include more luxurious features than ever, including an optional 23-speaker Klipsch® audio system.
As we consider the Ram 1500 body styles by year, we see significant evolution over the vehicle’s five generations. There is no “best” model year; there’s simply the one you prefer. Our Ram generations chart below outlines some of the changes that have occurred to this truck over the years. The initial Ram 1500 has a boxier look than the modern vehicle; just about everyone recognizes these trucks as something out of the 1980s. These models did not have the “1500” moniker; you found Dodge Ram D150 or Dodge Ram W150 (“W” for two-wheel drive or “D” for four-wheel drive) trucks instead.
The second generation, which debuted in 1994, more closely resembles the vehicle we know today. With a larger front grille and other bold styling choices, the second-generation Ram 1500 stood out on the road. These models adopted the 1500 name for the first time. 2002-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 trucks, which were the third generation, boast a more rounded body, moving away from the sharp edges that characterize older vehicles.
Fourth-generation pickups had some of the first infotainment features found in this truck, including optional navigation systems. These models also have access to an upgraded version of the famous HEMI V-8 engine. You may find a few well-cared-for pickups from this generation in our previous model year Ram 1500 inventory.
The fifth Ram 1500 generation began in 2019 and runs to this day. These trucks feature cutting-edge technologies, ranging from advanced safety features to diverse trims that boast additional capabilities. On this point, it’s worth noting that the Ram 1500 TRX debuted in 2021; this performance-oriented model is ideal for folks who want to explore difficult terrain.
| Years | Body Style | |
|---|---|---|
| First Generation | 1981-1993 | The first-generation Dodge Ram 150 (pre-1500) was boxy and available in two- and four-door styles |
| Second Generation | 1994-2001 | The second-generation model was also available in two- and four-door configurations and added a larger grille and bold styling changes |
| Third Generation | 2002-2008 | The third generation of the truck had more rounded styling than the first two and could be had with two- or four-door cabs, including the Mega Cab for the first time |
| Fourth Generation | 2009-2018 | The fourth-generation Ram 1500 is very familiar to many drivers, boasting a modern body style and a bold front grille. It is also available with four- and two-door body styles |
| Fifth Generation | 2019-Present | The modern Ram 1500 trucks are striking and full of modern features; these models are available only with four-door body styles |
In 2009, Ram was spun off from Dodge Ram to become its own company. This allowed the Ram design team to focus exclusively on producing powerful trucks with the conveniences and performance chops their drivers desire. The whole Spartanburg CDJR team is glad that this happened; both companies have continued to produce incredible vehicles, so it was clearly a sound decision.
This is not to say that there is anything wrong with Dodge Ram 1500 models. Many of these pickups are still on the road today, towing thousands of pounds or moving furniture all over town with ease. Please contact us if you are interested in one of these older models; we’ll do our utmost to help you find the perfect truck for your needs and preferences.
Our team is proud to offer the trucks in our new Ram 1500 inventory to drivers in our community. As discussed above, the most recent Ram 1500 models are robust and well-equipped with desirable features. Whether you’re interested in an entry-level trim designed to rule the construction site or a top-tier model boasting incredible luxury features, we can help you apply for financing.
When you’re ready for a fresh truck, it’s a good idea to check out our Ram 1500 specials. You can lease or purchase a brand-new pickup from our dealership more easily if you take us up on the incentives we have available. These change over time, so please feel free to reach out to us to discuss our current offers.
Thank you for reading about the Ram 1500 body styles by year. The team at our dealership is excited to help you pick out a model that suits your needs and tastes. While the Ram 1500 has changed significantly throughout the years, it has always been a powerful and durable vehicle that can serve you well as a daily driver or a job site hero. Please visit us today to explore a 2020 Ram 1500 or any of the other models in our inventory.
There are five generations of the Ram 1500 light-duty pickup. The vehicle was initially introduced in the early 1980s, with the second generation starting in the mid-90s. The third generation debuted in the early 2000s, and the fourth at the end of the same decade. The fifth generation began with the 2019 model of the Ram 1500.
There have been several changes made to the Ram 1500 for the 2025 model year. The car has a new standard engine; the 2025 truck boasts a twin-turbocharged inline-six-cylinder engine that makes at least 420 horsepower. It also has new lighting elements, revised wheels, and larger digital displays in the cabin. Please visit Spartanburg CDJR to learn more.
In 2009, Ram trucks became a standalone brand. This allowed the company to focus exclusively on making rugged vehicles that are ready for the job site. The staff at our store is pleased that the company split into two – both have produced incredible automobiles in recent years. Our dealership team is proud to offer our customers both Ram trucks and Dodge vehicles.
| New Ram Inventory | Ram 1500 | Ram 2500 | Ram 3500 |
| Previous Year Ram 1500 | Previous Year Ram Inventory | Ram 1500 Deals | Ram 1500 vs Jeep Gladiator |
1When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
