In a world full of expensive trucks and cars, Ram’s latest 1500 version aims to offer more for less
- The Ram 1500 Express combines modern performance with a nod to its 1939 origins.
- Customers can choose between a 305-hp V6 or an optional 420-hp inline-six engine.
- Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis uses a proven strategy that worked with Dodge’s success formula.
Today, trucks are often more about status than actual utility. You’re just as likely to see one parked in front of a suburban McMansion as you are on a construction site. But decades ago, the stereotype was entirely the opposite. Now, Ram is introducing a truck that aims to appeal to those who still rely on their vehicles for work, long hours, tough jobs, and no-nonsense performance, while keeping the price manageable. Enter the Express, a name with roots stretching back to 1939.
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The original Express set buyers back $670 in its first year of production. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, that would be about $15,305 in today’s money. Take a quick moment to let that sink in. Oh, and by the way, it cranked out a whole 78 horsepower (58 kW) from a 230.2-cubic-inch or 3.8-liter flat-head six-cylinder engine. And, of course, it came as a regular cab truck with no fancy frills, just pure, unadulterated utility.
In 2025, the modern-day 1500 Express arrives with a base price of $44,495, including destination. It’s not the cheapest 1500, as that title belongs to the $40,275 Tradesman. Still, under the hood, buyers will find a 3.6-liter V6 with 305 horsepower (227 kW), unless they add the optional inline six with 420 horsepower (313 kW) that costs an extra $1,695. The Ram 1500 Express is offered in both crew cab and quad cab configurations, with the choice of rear- or four-wheel drive.
Standard Features and Options
The Express doesn’t skimp on standard features. It comes equipped with 20-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian emergency braking, black-bezel LED headlights, and “interior accents in Liquid Graphite laser etched paint and Gridiron colors,” whatever that means.
On the exterior, the truck features what Ram calls a “menacing, badge-less monochromatic paint scheme,” complete with gloss-black grille surrounds and body-colored front and rear bumpers.
Customers can select one of five exterior colors, including Diamond Black, Bright White, Granite Crystal, Forged Blue, and Hydro Blue. Those who want to can add the Black Express package, a popular option from 2013 and 2019.
It includes black 20-inch wheels, black badges, a sport hood, side steps, and LED fog lights, as well as an upgraded cabin with black cloth bucket seats, a floor console, and a 7-inch gauge cluster. Before options, pricing peaks at $51,095. When equipped with the inline-six, the 1500 Express can tow up to 11,550 lbs in the RWD quad cab configuration. Expect the 1500 Express to roll onto Ram dealer lots in the third quarter.
Wash, Rinse, Repeat For Ram’s CEO
If there’s something that Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis is good at, it’s leveraging brand heritage. He did exactly that time and time again with Dodge. For example, the Charger and Challenger had huge name recognition, but he didn’t stop there. Several trim levels of each harkened back to other old-school names. Then, many of the “Last Call” special editions did the same thing.
Leaning on the Express brand image clearly follows the same formula. “The Express is the latest drop in Ram’s product offensive,” said Kuniskis. “We started the 2025 model year with a new Ram 1500 and new Ram Heavy Duty lineup. With the platforms refreshed, we begin rolling out trim level enhancements.” Now, the only real question is whether or not the name will resonate with buyers. It seems that the content itself does present a solid value.
