2021 model shown
Independent review & score by Carivo
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
|---|---|
| Body Style | Truck |
| Base Price | $29,120–$34,813 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
Our scoring places the 2021 Ram Ram 1500 at 7.4/10 overall, which translates to a Good rating for this truck. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.1/10, while Technology at 6.8/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional truck — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability is the weak spot: 6.9/10, under the class average. Review the recall record on this page and price in extra maintenance headroom. The safety score of 8.1/10 is solid mid-pack territory. If advanced driver aids matter to you, compare standard equipment carefully and verify ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance scores 7.9/10 — competent for everyday use. Acceleration and handling are adequate for commuting and highway driving, though enthusiasts will want to look at higher-rated alternatives. Technology scores 6.8/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $29,120–$34,813, 17 MPG, seating 5, the Ram Ram 1500 sits in the mid-market bracket of the truck segment. The 7.1/10 value score says the pricing is fair rather than generous; cross-shop the segment before signing anything. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Our take: The 2021 Ram Ram 1500 is a passable truck but not a standout one. Weaknesses in reliability and technology hold it back from being a strong recommendation. It may suit buyers with specific needs it serves well, but we'd encourage comparing at least two or three higher-scored alternatives before deciding.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
The 2021 Ram Ram 1500 ranks #251 of 515 trucks in the Carivo database — better than 51% of the segment. Its 7.4/10 overall score is exactly at the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $29,120 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $35,138 by about 17%.
Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full Truck ranking → · Best Trucks under $35k →
Smart-money pick: the 2018 Ram Ram 1500 scores 7.1/10 — within striking distance of the 2021's 7.4 — and starts roughly $3,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
| Year | Score | Starting price (MSRP when new) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 7.5/10 | $32,960 | Read review → |
| 2024 | 7.5/10 | $32,000 | Read review → |
| 2023 | 7.5/10 | $31,040 | Read review → |
| 2022 | 7.3/10 | $30,080 | Read review → |
| 2021 (this review) | 7.4/10 | $29,120 | |
| 2020 | 7.2/10 | $28,160 | Read review → |
| 2019 | 7.1/10 | $27,200 | Read review → |
| 2018 | 7.1/10 | $26,240 | Read review → |
| 2017 | 7.1/10 | $25,280 | Read review → |
| 2016 | 7.0/10 | $24,320 | Read review → |
| 2015 | 7.0/10 | $23,360 | Read review → |
| 2014 | 7.0/10 | $22,400 | Read review → |
We rate the 2021 Ram Ram 1500's reliability 6.9/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
It scores 7.4/10 overall, ranking #251 of 515 trucks in our database (better than 51% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
The 2021 Ram Ram 1500 starts at $29,120 and ranges up to $34,813 across trims (MSRP when new). At 17 MPG, expect roughly $3,088/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
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Explore the full lineup of Ram models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
