Dodge prices 2010 Rams lower than 2009 models

Dodge’s redesigned 2010 Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty pickups all carry lower prices than the old models they’re replacing.

The base model 2010 Ram 2500 regular cab 4x2 with a 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 starts at $28,165, including shipping. That’s $1,970 cheaper than the 2009 model it replaces, according to Dodge numbers -- even though the redesigned model has more equipment.

But customers can spend a lot more. The most expensive model, the 2010 Dodge 3500 Mega Cab Laramie powered by a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel, stickers at $51,595.

Aggressive with the competition

The pickups, which arrive at dealerships in early November, are the only redesigned 2010 models from the recently bankrupt Chrysler Group.

“We are going very aggressive at the competition on pricing,” said Mark Heber, head of Dodge truck marketing, at a media event here.

The pickups are the first products launched under the automaker’s new Dodge Ram brand for trucks and commercial vehicles.

Customers can choose between two powerplants: a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel or a 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 gasoline engine. Historically, 82 percent of customers have chosen the diesel.

Dodge engineers, in cooperation with supplier Cooper Standard, added a system to smooth out the heavy-duty models’ ride. The Ram 2500 and 3500 Crew and Mega Cab models come with hydraulic dampers mounted to the frame at the rear of the cab.