The RAM 1500 Crew Cab Short (DS) with the 3.0 EcoDiesel V6 engine and four-wheel drive, produced from 2014 to 2017, represented a significant offering in the full-size pickup truck segment. This variant, part of the second generation of the redesigned 1500 series (following the 2013 facelift – internally designated ‘DS’), aimed to provide a balance of capability, fuel efficiency, and refinement. It slotted into the lineup as a mid-range option, appealing to buyers who desired diesel torque and all-weather capability without the expense of the higher trim levels like the Limited or Laramie Longhorn. The introduction of the EcoDiesel engine was a key move for RAM, catering to a growing demand for more fuel-conscious full-size trucks.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | RAM |
| Model | 1500 |
| Generation | 1500 Crew Cab Short (DS, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 EcoDiesel V6 (240 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp, 93.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 222.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 240 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 569 Nm @ 2000 rpm (419.67 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 4800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EXF |
| Engine displacement | 2988 cm3 (182.34 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2555 kg (5632.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3152 kg (6948.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 597 kg (1316.16 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1424 l (50.29 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3470 kg (7650.04 lbs.) |
| Length | 5817 mm (229.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2017 mm (79.41 in.) |
| Height | 1968 mm (77.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3570 mm (140.55 in.) |
| Front track | 1732 mm (68.19 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.1 m (39.7 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17.8° |
| Departure angle | 24.7° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20.5° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), Electric Power Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this RAM 1500 variant is the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine, designated as the EXF. This engine is a turbocharged diesel, utilizing a common-rail direct injection system for precise fuel delivery. The engine’s design emphasizes low-end torque, making it well-suited for towing and hauling. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, helps to boost power output while maintaining efficiency. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its overall performance. The 8-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, was a key component in maximizing the engine’s efficiency and providing smooth gear changes. This transmission offered a wide gear ratio spread, allowing the engine to operate in its optimal power band more frequently.
Driving Characteristics
The 240 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque delivered by the EcoDiesel engine provided a distinctly different driving experience compared to the gasoline-powered RAM 1500s. While not as quick off the line as the V8 options, the diesel offered a broad, flat torque curve, making it exceptionally capable for towing and hauling heavy loads. The 8-speed automatic transmission was well-tuned, providing smooth and responsive shifts. The gear ratios were optimized for both on-road cruising and off-road capability. Compared to the 3.6L Pentastar V6, the EcoDiesel offered significantly more torque, but less peak horsepower. The diesel’s lower engine speed at highway cruising also contributed to quieter operation and improved fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 EcoDiesel V6 was available on several RAM 1500 trim levels, including the SLT, Big Horn/Lone Star, and Laramie. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. The Crew Cab configuration provided ample space for passengers, with seating for up to six occupants. Optional extras included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, navigation, and advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection. The interior materials and finishes varied depending on the trim level, with higher trims offering more luxurious appointments.
Chassis & Braking
The RAM 1500’s chassis featured a robust fully boxed frame, contributing to its strength and durability. The front suspension utilized a double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link setup. This suspension configuration provided a comfortable ride quality, even when the truck was loaded. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, enhancing safety and control. The 4×4 system provided excellent traction in various weather conditions and off-road situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The RAM 1500 EcoDiesel was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, particularly compared to other full-size trucks with gasoline engines. The diesel engine’s torque output was also a major selling point, making it a popular choice for those who frequently tow or haul. However, some critics noted that the EcoDiesel engine was more expensive than the gasoline options. Compared to the 3.6L Pentastar V6, the EcoDiesel offered better fuel economy and towing capacity, but at a higher initial cost. Compared to the 5.7L Hemi V8, the EcoDiesel provided comparable towing capability with significantly improved fuel efficiency, but lacked the V8’s raw power and acceleration.
Legacy
The 3.0 EcoDiesel V6 engine proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain, although early versions (2014-2015) experienced some issues with diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration and emissions system components. Later revisions addressed these concerns, improving the engine’s overall reliability. In the used car market, RAM 1500s equipped with the EcoDiesel engine generally command a premium price due to their fuel efficiency and capability. These trucks remain a popular choice for buyers who want a full-size pickup with diesel power and a comfortable ride. The EcoDiesel engine helped establish RAM as a leader in diesel truck technology, paving the way for future diesel offerings.
