2013 Ram: Hemi 8-speed, more

The 2013 Ram has been unveiled, and it has a surprising number of changes under the hood (and body). In addition to the expected interior change and mild exterior refresh, which mainly features new grilles and a revised step bar, the 2013 Ram 1500 will come with the ZF eight-speed automatic in both V6 and V8 varieties.

The 2013 Ram with V6 will have a Pentastar engine pumping out 305 horsepower — as it does in the Challenger — to an eight-speed transmission with a wide gear range. This transmission is dubbed the “TorqueFlite 8,” in memory of the advanced, sturdy, and reliable three-speed automatic developed by Chrysler decades ago.

The Hemi V8 will, starting in the first quarter of 2013, also be available with the eight-speed, making do with the current 65RFE until then. The V8 trucks will use a beefed-up transmission dubbed the 8HP70, with 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque capacity. Gas mileage for both powertrains is reportedly up by 20% (with eight-speed), though the transmission is only part of the equation: the trucks are also getting a stop-start system, active shutters to cut aero drag, and weight reduction.

The trucks have a stronger, lighter frame with new connecting points, and the next-generation UConnect system, which can run user-installed applications and have a new, OnStar-like “call 911″ button.

For the full story, including engine power and other specifications, see our 2013 Ram 1500 page.

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