The All-New Ram 1500, armed with the twin-turbo Hurricane engine, has roared into New Zealand, shaking up the market with a perfect blend of muscle, luxury, and innovation. For nine consecutive years, the Ram 1500 has been New Zealand’s best-selling US pick-up, and with this powerful next-generation iteration, it shows no signs of relinquishing its throne.
The Hurricane engine is Ram’s bold answer to the challenge of balancing power with efficiency. The Standard Output (SO) version in the Ram 1500 Laramie Sport delivers an impressive 313kW of power and 635Nm of torque, a noticeable improvement over the 291kW/556Nm from the 5.7-litre Hemi V8. Even more thrilling is the High Output (HO) Hurricane engine in the Limited model, boasting 403kW of power and 707Nm of torque—a staggering 38.5% more power and 27.2% more torque than its V8 predecessor. This means that the Hurricane not only outmuscles the Hemi V8 but also provides better performance and smoother refinement, particularly with 90% of the torque available from just 2,350rpm.
The new Ram 1500 sets benchmarks in luxury and technology. Both the Laramie Sport and Limited models feature a redesigned interior dominated by a class-leading 14.4-inch infotainment screen paired with an innovative 10.25-inch passenger screen. This passenger screen offers privacy film to prevent the driver from being distracted and can be used for navigation, entertainment, and even smartphone mirroring. Beyond technology, the Limited model introduces luxurious massaging seats with five settings, ensuring unparalleled comfort even during long journeys.
Among the stand-out features are wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual wireless phone charging, and a 19-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system. New convenience elements include an automatic power tailgate, retractable side steps, traffic sign recognition, and proximity lighting with a Ram logo projection at night. Style hasn’t been left behind either, with bold 20-inch or 22-inch alloy wheels and redesigned LED headlights and tail-lights that animate when the vehicle unlocks.
In addition to unmatched comfort and cutting-edge technology, the Ram 1500 is a workhorse. It offers a towing capacity of up to 4,500kg (on models with the 70mm tow ball) and payloads of 863kg for the Laramie Sport and 782.5kg for the Limited, making it as functional as it is stylish. Meanwhile, air suspension provides three different modes for various terrains, and five driving modes (auto, sport, tow, snow, and off-road) tailor the truck’s capabilities to any challenge.
The new Ram 1500 also comes loaded with advanced safety equipment, including adaptive cruise control, intersection collision avoidance, and an industry-first co-pilot mode on the infotainment system, which allows the passenger to assist with navigation tasks. The 360-degree camera and front/rear parking sensors ensure tight urban parking spots can be tackled with ease, in stark contrast to the traditional perception of large trucks.
Made for New Zealand, Crafted in Melbourne
Though imported from the USA, the Ram 1500 undergoes significant modifications in Melbourne to meet right-hand-drive standards, using both locally engineered components and parts from the original US models. Ram Trucks Australia employs over 200 factory workers and 40 engineers to ensure the highest quality and to fulfill demand from the Australasian market. This dedication to bespoke remanufacturing ensures that New Zealand customers receive vehicles tailored to local conditions and expectations.
With prices starting at NZ$164,990 for the Laramie Sport and rising to NZ$185,990 for the Limited, the All-New Ram 1500 is aimed at buyers who demand the ultimate blend of performance, luxury, and capability. Whether for work, play, or everything in between, the Ram 1500 continues to redefine what a pick-up can be—now more powerful and desirable than ever.
The twin-turbo Hurricane’s arrival heralds a new chapter for the Ram 1500 in New Zealand. With its winning combination of cutting-edge technology, blistering performance, and premium comfort, this pick-up is set to maintain its reign as the nation’s favorite. After all, why settle for less when you can have a Hurricane in your driveway!
