The next-generation Ram 1500 has been spotted by spy photographers and boy; the differences are huge! Scheduled for the 2019 model year, this half-ton truck departs from the classic Ram “big rig” design that dates back to the second-generation Dodge Ram that debuted for 1994. Gone are the crosshair grille and the big step between the hood and headlights. Ram has also moved the model and engine badge to the hood, leaving the doors free of clutter. But the front isn’t the only change.

The spy photos show a completely revised pickup with new metal from bumper to bumper. Even the cab section looks new. The doors certainly have new skin, and the weather stripping around the windows seems thicker, likely to help reduce wind noise. The Ram’s rear features new taillights, a new tailgate skin, and an interesting bumper with a full-length step that should make getting into the bed a bit easier. The bumper-integrated dual exhaust does make the generational jump.

Naturally, Ram hasn’t said a word on its new pickup, but the updates are expected to be more than just skin deep. Expect a strengthened frame, updated suspension components, and maybe even some aluminum body panels to decrease weight in key areas. The RamBox bed should return, along with the multi-link rear suspension an air-ride option.

As for engines, the prototype truck is clearly wearing a badge for the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8. We fully expect the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel to return – likely unchanged – along with an updated 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6. The ZF eight-speed automatic will likely be standard equipment across the board. The other badge, though covered by tape, will likely be the R-A-M lettering within the horizontal bar in the new grille.

This is an unprecedented look at the upcoming 2019 Ram 1500, however, we see something missing. Keep reading to find out what.

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The 2019 Ram 1500 Spied

Thanks to a loose tarp, a windy day, and Dodge Forum, we’re getting a very good look at Ram’s new truck. Of course, it’s still a prototype, so anything could change before Ram pulls the covers off the truck. That’s expected to happen at the Detroit Auto Show in January of 2018.

As for its appearance, the new Ram has less distinctive styling than before – at least in our eyes. The move away from the “big rig” styling might prove a mistake, though Ram has certainly ridden that design theme for quite a while – 24 years, to be exact. Still, some folks might argue the 2019 Ram looks too similar to the 2018 Ford F-150.

Subjective takes on its appearance aside; the Ram does seem to be missing one feature we were really excited about. This test mule doesn’t have that dual-opening, “multi-use” tailgate Ram has purportedly been working on. The design allows for the conventional use of the tailgate, letting it drop down in the typical fashion, but a split in the middle will also allow the tailgate to open like a double door. Though it would add complexity and cost, the double door-style opening would give amazing access to the cargo bed.

Then again, all hope on the tailgate isn’t lost. Back to that rear bumper – its full-length step would be perfect for getting into the bed and could provide a place to locate hidden handles to open the tailgate’s two sides. In fact, the Honda Ridgeline uses a very similar step bumper design and handle location. And since the double door tailgate would surely be an optional extra, perhaps this test mule simply didn’t have it. After all, we have seen previous Ram 1500 test mules running around with big, padded camouflage covering the tailgate area. Imagine how handy the cargo bed would be with the multi-use tailgate paired with the RamBox system. How cool would that be?!

So, what do you think? Do you like the 2019 Ram 1500’s design? Do you hate it? Let us know in the comments below.

Hat tip to Automotive News, Allpar, and Dodge Forum

References

Ram 1500

Read our full speculative review on the 2019 Ram 1500.

Read more Ram news.