Spied: 2009 Dodge Ram
 

Just because Chrysler Corp. was sold doesn't mean work on upcoming vehicles has slowed any. Shots of the 2009 Dodge Ram have surfaced and show a new direction for the full-size truck that started the "big rig" look. The new Ram will have a front end with a lot less surface area than the current model in order to improve the truck's aerodynamics and hopefully increase fuel economy as a result. Through the camoflouge we can see a grille not unlike that of the Charger's, with a chunky crosshair grille that's pitched forward.

Pickuptruck.com is reporting that the 2009 Dodge Ram will receive a completely new slate of engines that includes the 4.0L V6 from the Dodge Nitro with 260 hp and 265 ft-lbs. of torque, the 4.7L V8 from the Dakota producing 300 hp and 330 ft-lbs. of torque, and a new HEMI V8 with greater displacement than the current 5.7L. There will also be a new Cummins diesel V8 on the option sheet. Every engine will be available with a six-speed automatic, as well.

This particular development mule was found testing along with current Dodge Rams and a 2007 Toyota Tundra. It's interesting that no F-150s or Silverados were along for the ride, though were sure Dodge is planning to make its new Ram competitive with the entire field of competition, and not just Toyota's new Tundra.

Source: [url=http://www.caranddriver.com/carnews/13036/spied-2009-dodge-ram.html]Car and Driver[/url]