Let’s Give It A Warm Welcome Ram Introduces New 3.0-EcoDiesel

Let’s Give It A Warm Welcome

Ram Introduces New 3.0-EcoDiesel

There’s no question: Ram has made huge strides in the truck market. In Texas, Ram sales are up 28%, and with the addition of the new 3.0-Liter EcoDiesel engine in its ½-ton pickup, a light-duty diesel is a very real broadening of the new Ram’s already-broad appeal. One advantage – and this is big: the Ram team is offering the EcoDiesel across the truck lineup. That’s in contrast to what FCA had done previously with its Grand Cherokee diesel, offered only in the upscale trim levels. Similarly, many diesel engine offerings from other truck manufacturers require you to purchase upscale models to get a diesel in a ½-ton truck, and that – fortunately – isn’t the case with Ram. 

Improvements in the 3.0 liter EcoDiesel are largely in added refinement. A high flow turbine provides bigger boost, while low friction blades on the camshaft-drive and vacuum pump reduce parasitic loss. Also, a diamond-like carbon coating on the piston pins further reduce friction.

And then there’s this: The upcharge for the EcoDiesel is only $4,995, which is a relative bargain. And this truck could be called the Long Ranger, if – or course – Ford didn’t already have ‘Ranger’. It’s possible to go 1,000 miles on a tank of diesel fuel, while the warranty is also long – the powertrain is covered for 5 years/100,000 miles. Transmission to the ground is via FCA’s 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic (8HP75) – and there will be torque. 

In comparing EPA estimates, mileage on the new Silverado 1500 diesel is 33 Hwy, 23 City and 27 Combined. The Ford Power Stroke is 30 Hwy, 22 City and 25 Combined. Ram’ EcoDiesel is 32 Hwy, 22 City and 25 Combined. On our short drive around downtown Plano, I found the engine noise level very low and acceleration very strong. The 3.0 EcoDiesel has 200hp with 480 lb.ft./650Nm. Our test drive Ram EcoDiesel 1500 Longhorn Crew Cab 4X4 priced out at $67,160.