Ram’s next-generation 1500 pickup is on the verge of debut at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show ahead of its arrival in showrooms for the 2019 model year, but we’re getting a sneak peak thanks to a spy photographer who captured a detailed look at the 2019 Ram’s interior. The truck features a massive vertically oriented infotainment screen that dominates the center stack. It’s a vastly different design than anything currently seen in the pickup category. In fact, only Tesla and Volvo models have such large screens, followed closely by the Toyota Prius Prime.

Thankfully, it seems Ram engineers have thoughtfully retained hard buttons for the most common controls. These include the radio volume and tuning knobs, buttons for the HVAC fan speed and dual-zone temperatures, and the secondary HVAC system like defrost and recirculation. A bank of toggle switches line the bottom of the screen, controlling features like the optional air ride suspension, traction control, and parking sensors. As for the software, it’s clear Ram is continuing to use the well-loved Uconnect system. Icons along the bottom of the screen offer quick access to menus like the radio, HVAC, apps, navigation, phone, and system settings.

There’s more to see in the photos, so keep reading for more analysis.

Continue reading for more information.

Inside The 2019 Ram 1500

The spied 2019 Ram 1500 is certainly a high-ranking trim level with all the bells and whistles. Lower spec trucks are likely to have a smaller screen and a separate HVAC control system.

Beyond the big screen, we can see the Ram’s dash has a completely new appearance. The gauge cluster is new with a larger TFT driver information screen, there’s a new steering wheel, and the center console is updated. Even the grab handle on the A-pillar is new. Wood trim tops the center stack, visible with chrome trim around the HVAC vents. The rotary shift knob makes its return, though with an updated knob and further separated from the center stack. We’re betting the push-button start is located just to the left of the gear knob. In fact, we can see the key fob sitting in the center console behind the drinks. It has buttons that look to control the tailgate, meaning it’s got an electronic release for hands-free operation.

Naturally, we expect this massive screen to begin making its way into other Fiat Chrysler products as each go under mid-cycle refreshes or generational changes. This is an exciting change since the Uconnect system is generally regarded as one of the leading infotainment software in the industry, getting praise for its ease-of-use and snappy reaction to inputs. And we’re very happy to see actual buttons remain for the radio and HVAC controls, even though the Uconnect system is a breeze to quickly navigate through. Real buttons just make the experience simpler.

So, what’s your opinion? Do you like the large Uconnect screen? Will other automakers begin adopting this design? Will it appeal to pickup buyers? Let us know in the comments below.

References

Ram 1500

Read our full review on the 2019 Ram 1500.

Read more Ram news.