The State Fair of Texas is one of the largest truck-focused events in the country, serving as an ideal location for manufacturers to announce what’s around the corner for the next model year. This year, Ram took the opportunity to show off the changes coming to its 2017 lineup, while also unveiling its latest Texas-themed special edition truck.
New For 2017
The Ram Lone Star, Laramie Longhorn and Limited models receive most of the changes for the 2017 model year. For starters, the Laramie Longhorn gets a new grille. Also for 2017, buyers can get the 1500, 2500 and 3500 Limited model with bold "RAM" lettering on the tailgate in Brilliant Black or Granite Crystal Metallic paint, for an additional $195.
For the 1500, 2500 and 3500 Longhorn models, there’s a new bright chrome grille and new chrome accents. The billet grille uses big Ram lettering in upper case letters across the front. These styling changes come to market in the fourth quarter of 2016. For 1500 Longhorn models, new standard equipment includes Keyless Go, SmartBeam headlights and rain-sensing wipers.
Also, Ram will start including Bilstein monotube shocks as standard equipment on all 4-wheel-drive 2500 Heavy Duty Limited and Longhorn trucks, to enhance ride and handling. The 6.4-liter V8 has been made standard in all 2017 Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty Laramie, Longhorn and Limited trucks. Last year, the standard engine was the 5.7-liter V8.
A new 4×4 off-road package is available for Ram 2500 Heavy Duty models. Its off-road-biased gear includes monotube Bilstein shocks, a skid plate under the transfer case, hill descent control, limited-slip differential, tow hooks, all-terrain tires and fender flares.
Lone Star Silver Edition
Ram has offered Texas-exclusive special editions since 2002. The division’s latest Texas-specific special model, the Lone Star Silver Edition, adds an upgraded grille with a chrome surround and mesh inserts, chrome side mirrors and wheel-to-wheel side steps, plus polished 20-inch wheels and front tow hooks. It also has a unique Lone Star badge and comes with Ram’s new “Ram Care” service program. The interior combines cloth and vinyl on bucket seats in either Canyon Brown and Light Frost Beige, or Black with Diesel Gray. It’s available in 1500 Crew Cab configuration with 2- or 4-wheel-drive, short or long bed, powered by a choice of 3.6-liter V6, 5.7-liter V8 or a 3.0-liter turbodiesel. Going on sale in later 2016, the new package pricing adds $900, for a price of $40,315 including destination.
