The 2024 Ram 1500 Crew Cab, specifically equipped with the 3.0-liter SST HO (High Output) inline-six engine producing 540 horsepower and paired with a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission and a 4×4 drivetrain, represents the pinnacle of performance within the Ram 1500 lineup. Introduced as part of the DT facelift for the 2024 model year, this variant caters to buyers seeking substantial power and capability in a full-size pickup truck. It builds upon the established foundation of the DT generation Ram 1500, known for its comfortable ride and refined interior, while significantly elevating its performance credentials. This configuration positions itself as a direct competitor to high-performance versions of the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | RAM |
| Model | 1500 |
| Generation | 1500 Crew Cab (DT, facelift 2024) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 SST HO (540 Hp) 4×4 TorqueFlite |
| Start of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 540 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 180.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 707 Nm @ 3500 rpm (521.46 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6100 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Hurricane |
| Engine displacement | 2993 cm3 (182.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | 2 x Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 15.3 l (16.17 US qt | 13.46 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 3221 kg (7101.09 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1523 l (53.78 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Length | 5903 mm (232.4 in.) |
| Width | 2062 mm (81.18 in.) |
| Height | 1926-2022 mm (75.83 – 79.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3672 mm (144.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1727 mm (67.99 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 169-272 mm (6.65 – 10.71 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.08 m (46.19 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 14.6-23.3° |
| Departure angle | 18.6-22.8° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 16.1-22.9° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission TorqueFlite |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 378×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 375×22 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 275/55 R20; 285/45 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 20; 9J x 22 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Ram 1500 variant is the 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six engine. This engine, designated as the SST HO, is a significant departure from traditional V6 and V8 configurations. It utilizes a direct injection system and is force-fed by two twin-scroll turbochargers, along with an intercooler, to achieve its impressive 540 horsepower and 707 Nm (521.46 lb.-ft.) of torque. The engine’s architecture features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and a 9.5:1 compression ratio. The TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission is specifically tuned to handle the engine’s substantial output, providing smooth and responsive shifts. This transmission is known for its durability and efficiency, contributing to the truck’s overall drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The 540 hp and 4×4 drivetrain deliver exhilarating acceleration and impressive towing capacity. While the standard Ram 1500 is known for its comfortable ride, the SST HO variant offers a more performance-oriented experience. The eight-speed TorqueFlite transmission is well-matched to the engine’s powerband, providing quick downshifts for overtaking and maintaining momentum on inclines. Compared to lower-output Ram 1500 models, such as those equipped with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, the SST HO offers a dramatically increased level of performance. While fuel economy suffers compared to the V6, the added power is a significant benefit for those who frequently tow or haul heavy loads.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 SST HO engine is typically offered on the higher trim levels of the Ram 1500, such as the Limited, Laramie, and TRX. Standard features include premium leather upholstery, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a premium sound system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Optional extras often include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated and heated seats, and various off-road packages. The interior appointments are generally luxurious and well-appointed, reflecting the truck’s premium positioning.
Chassis & Braking
The Ram 1500 chassis is designed to handle the demands of a full-size pickup truck. The SST HO variant benefits from an upgraded suspension system, often incorporating air suspension for a smoother ride and improved load-leveling capabilities. The front suspension utilizes a double wishbone setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear features a rigid axle suspension with air springs and a stabilizer bar. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, with larger rotors and calipers compared to lower-trim models. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, providing enhanced stopping power and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2024 Ram 1500 with the 3.0 SST HO engine has been well-received by automotive critics, who praise its impressive power and refined driving experience. Fuel economy is a common criticism, as the engine’s high output comes at the expense of efficiency. However, the truck’s overall capabilities and luxurious interior have earned it positive reviews. Compared to competitors like the Ford F-150 Raptor and Chevrolet Silverado Trail Boss, the Ram 1500 SST HO offers a unique blend of performance, comfort, and technology.
Legacy
The Hurricane engine represents a significant step forward in Ram’s powertrain strategy. Its innovative design and high output have established it as a benchmark for performance in the full-size pickup truck segment. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, the engine’s robust construction and advanced technology suggest it will be a durable and dependable powertrain. On the used car market, Ram 1500s equipped with the 3.0 SST HO engine are expected to command a premium price due to their desirable performance characteristics.
