New RAM 1500 prices up

Pricing for the new DT-series Ram 1500 has increased by as much as $4995 in recent months as initial MY22 stocks of the high-tech pick-up continues to flow into local showrooms.

The MY22 RAM 1500 Laramie has increased in price from $114,950 to $119,900 plus on-road costs, while the RamBox-equipped version has increased by a similar amount, from $119,900 to $124,850 plus ORCs.

The flagship MY22 RAM 1500 Limited wasn’t immune either; its starting price went up $3000 from $139,950 to $142,950 plus ORCs.

RAM Trucks Australia told carsales the price hikes were reflective of similar increases in the US, while the previously optional power side steps have been made standard equipment on Laramie variants.

While Lamarie customers do get another trinket for the extra outlay, the price increase has pushed the most affordable DT variant a fair way upstream of the cheaper and more powerful Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ Premium.

Whereas the difference between the two arch-rivals was once a slim $1005, the margin is now an even $6000 – although we’re not sure anyone with more than $110,000 to spend on a ute will be too fussed.

That said, safety-conscious buyers may be off-put by the current unavailability of the ‘Driver Assistance Level 2 Package’, which bundles together blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, pedestrian detection for the AEB, automatic high beam, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, a surround view camera and park assist.

There are no changes to the previous-generation – and lower spec – DS-series RAM 1500 Express or Warlock variants, which continue on sale from $79,950 and $108,950 plus ORCs respectively.

All RAM 1500s regardless of series remain powered by the familiar 5.7-litre HEMI petrol V8, developing 291kW/556Nm.