Engine: 6.7-Liter Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6

Engine Options: 345-hp 5.7-liter ohv 16-valve V8; 330-hp 5.7-liter ohv 16-valve V8; 350-hp 6.7-liter ohv 24-valve I-6 Cummins turbo diesel

Transmission: six-speed automatic

Transmission Options: 5-speed automatic; 6-speed manual; 6-speed automatic

Standard Safety Equipment: dual front multi-stage airbags, three-point belts in all seating positions with constant-force retractors, LATCH child-seat anchors, child-protection rear door locks; four-wheel ABS

Optional Safety Equipment: side-curtain airbags for front and rear seats

Basic Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles

Assembled In: Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico; St. Louis, Missouri

Model Tested: Dodge Ram Mega Cab 3500 Laramie 4x4 ($49,920)

Standard Equipment: leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, heated front seats, security alarm, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Sentry Key engine immobilizer; overhead console with mini trip computer and compass, cruise control, power windows and door locks, keyless entry, four-wheel disc brakes with four-wheel ABS; part-time manual shift transfer case.

Options as Tested: side curtain airbags ($490); 6-speed automatic transmission ($1,575); bucket seats ($490); entertainment/radio system ($1,500); limited-slip differential ($325); towing mirrors ($100); sunroof ($850); state surcharge ($535)

Destination Charge: 900

Gas Guzzler Tax:

Layout: four-wheel drive

Horsepower: 350 @ 3000

Torque: 650 @ 1500

Miles Per Gallon in the City/Highway:

Wheelbase: 160.3 inches

Length/Width/Height in Inches: 247.7/96.0/79.1 inches

Track Front/Rear: 69.5/75.8 inches

Turning Cycle: 49.7 feet

Seating Capacity: 5 people

Head/Hip/Leg Room, f: 40.8/64.9/41.0 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, m: inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, r: 40.5/64.6/44.2 inches

Trunk Volume: cubic feet

Payload: 2681

Suspension, f: live axle, four-link plus track bar, coil springs, stabilizer bar, monotube shock absorbers

Ground Clearance: 7.7 inches

Curb Weight: 7819 pounds

Towing Capacity: 16,400 pounds

Tires: LT235/80R17E

Brakes: vented disc/vented disc with ABS, EBD

Fuel Capacity: 35.0 Gallons