“If I still lived in Texas, this is the truck I’d get,” I told my dad when he was visiting me in California while we were riding in the 2019 Ram 1500 Laramie. He gave me his what are you talking about face that only a father who drives a BMW 4 Series could have, but I firmly stood by my decision. Unfortunately (or fortunately), I live in Redondo Beach, where having a full-size truck can be a bit uncomfortable to drive on a daily basis.
But if I was living in Texas and still maintained my single status, the Ram 1500 Laramie is the truck that I’d buy. I would most likely go with the 3.6-liter V-6 engine, since it’s powerful enough to drive in the city and off-road, and it comes with eTorque as standard. I’d also be saving about $1,400 with this engine over the V-8, and even more bucks on a weekly basis when hitting the pump. But best of all is that I’d be getting a truck that drives well and looks great.
With so many options and packages available for the Ram 1500, its $41,635 base price can quickly skyrocket. So, I would keep things simple. By choosing the Laramie, you’re already getting a nicely equipped truck, so there’s no need to go for more (at least in my opinion). Because I wouldn’t be towing or doing any hardcore off-roading, I’d keep things simple and go with the standard 3.21 rear axle ratio, 4×2 traction, and no towing packages. I would add the deployable bed step for $195, as it simplifies the access to the bed.
The Level 1 Equipment package is not a bad deal for $1,695. It adds automatic high beams, blind-spot monitor, parking sensors in the front and rear, automatic windshield wipers, and remote tailgate opening, among other things. Also, as much as I’d like to upgrade the 18-inch wheels, I’m fine with those and prefer saving a few more bucks. Interior-wise, I’d only add the rubber floor mats, which can be a bit expensive for $135, but it helps when cleaning the truck. Other than that, I wouldn’t add more options, as I’d get leather seats and the 8.4-inch touchscreen with Uconnect and Apple CarPlay as standard equipment.