Dodge Ram 1500: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Dodge Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup known for combining real towing and hauling ability with a smoother, more comfortable ride than many trucks of its era. The 2009–2010 version also stands out for strong V8 power, roomy cabs, useful storage, and a polished interior.
This Ram 1500 was built around the idea that a work-capable pickup could also be comfortable enough for everyday driving. Its defining feature was a coil-spring rear suspension designed to reduce the rough ride common in an empty truck. A roomy, polished cabin and clever storage made it easier to use as both a work vehicle and family transportation.
Strengths
- The coil-spring rear suspension gives the truck a more comfortable empty-bed ride than many pickups of its time.
- The cabin is roomy and more polished than the basic work-truck norm of its era.
- Strong V8 options give it useful muscle for towing and hauling.
- Properly configured gas models were rated to tow as much as 10,450 pounds in 2010.
- Cab choices, seating for up to six in 2010, and clever storage make it practical for work and family use.
- Both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive versions were offered in 2010.
Who it's for
It suits someone who needs a full-size truck for towing or hauling but does not want to put up with a harsh everyday ride. Crew Cab versions are especially relevant to shoppers who also carry family, friends, or coworkers.
Dodge Ram 1500 lineup
For 2010, the lineup consisted of ST, SLT, and Laramie. The provided model history does not establish lasting equipment or personality differences among these trims, so their identities should not be generalized beyond that model year. Used-truck shoppers should compare the actual cab, drivetrain, engine, and equipment on each example rather than relying on the badge alone.
Dodge Ram 1500 generations
From 2009 to 2010, the Ram 1500 spans 1 generation. The current 4th Generation — DS arrived for 2009.
4th Generation — DS (2009–2010)
The fourth-generation Ram 1500 moved to a new frame and a coil-spring rear suspension for a smoother ride. It also brought a redesigned cabin, a Crew Cab body style, added standard safety equipment, and an updated 5.7-liter HEMI V8.
1 In Stock
2010
Mostly carried over. Towing ratings increased for certain 5.7-liter V8 models, and fuel shutoff during deceleration became standard across the engine range.
2009New generation
Redesigned with a new frame, a coil-spring rear suspension, a new cabin, and a Crew Cab body style.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Dodge Ram 1500.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Dodge Ram 1500 a full-size pickup?
Yes. The Dodge Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup built for towing, hauling, everyday driving, and family use. The 2009–2010 lineup includes two- and four-door configurations with seating for three to six people.
What is the Dodge Ram 1500 known for?
It is known for combining real truck capability with a smoother, more comfortable ride. Its coil-spring rear suspension, strong V8 engines, roomy cabs, useful storage, and polished cabin help it work as both a pickup and a daily driver.
Does the Dodge Ram 1500 ride comfortably when the bed is empty?
Yes. The fourth-generation truck uses a coil-spring rear suspension designed to reduce the rough, bouncy feel that pickups often have with an empty bed. Comfort is one of this Ram 1500’s defining strengths.
Is the Dodge Ram 1500 practical for a family?
Yes, especially in a roomy four-door configuration. Depending on the cab and seating layout, it holds three to six people, and rear legroom ranges from 34.7 to 40.3 inches. It suits families that also need pickup utility.
How much can the Dodge Ram 1500 tow?
Properly equipped gas models have maximum towing ratings from 8,850 to 10,450 pounds. The exact limit depends on the engine, axle ratio, drivetrain, cab, and other equipment, so verify the rating of the specific used truck.
Is the Dodge Ram 1500 a hybrid?
No. The 2009–2010 Dodge Ram 1500 covered here uses gasoline engines rather than a hybrid powertrain. Output across the lineup ranges from 215 to 390 horsepower.
Does the Dodge Ram 1500 have four-wheel drive?
Yes. The 2009–2010 Ram 1500 was built in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive forms. Four-wheel drive is the better fit for slippery roads and rough surfaces, while two-wheel drive is simpler for mostly paved use.
Which generation is the Dodge Ram 1500?
The 2009–2010 Dodge Ram 1500 belongs to the fourth generation. The 2009 redesign introduced a new frame, coil-spring rear suspension, redesigned cabin, Crew Cab body, standard stability control, and standard side-curtain airbags; 2010 mostly carried that design forward.