There was a lot of excitement generated back in 2013 when Chrysler announced that a diesel engine would be available on the 2014 half-ton Ram pickups. To get a diesel from any other manufacturer on the continent, you need to look at the ¾ ton offerings – Ford’s F250 or GM’s 2500 series.
There was some doubt cast when it was announced that Ram wasn’t giving the business to Cummins, who have an available 5 Litre power plant that’s just begging to be put in a Light truck, but instead would be using a smaller 3 Litre V6 engine from Italy’s VM Motori, a company that Chrysler/Fiat had a relationship with. Indeed, that relationship would become more solid almost immediately, as following the announcement that the Ram half-ton would use the company’s engine, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles bought the company in its entirety, paying handsomely for the large portion that was previously owned by General Motors.
Despite initial reservations, the EcoDiesel has proven itself to be a very popular engine. Though outsold by Chrysler’s gasoline offerings, fuel conscious consumers can now choose to pay the premium price of the engine in exchange for head-turning mileage numbers – 20 mpg in the city, and 28 on the highway for the 2 wheel drive model. The four wheel drive numbers are equally impressive 19/27.
EcoDiesel performance is also very good. The 3.0 puts out 240 horsepower and 420 foot-pounds of torque, enough to haul 1600 pounds, and tow 9200 pounds. Drivability ratings have been fantastic, in large part thanks to Chrysler’s 8-Speed Torqueflite transmission.
Despite a relatively small (3000 units) recall caused by exhaust fumes entering the cabin, consumer reviews of the EcoDiesel equipped Ram have been very positive, and the power plant has made it to Ward’s list of the 10 best engines for both the 2014 and 2015 model years.
At IAMDiesel, we applaud Chrysler’s willingness to put a diesel engine in a smaller truck, and we’re hoping other manufacturers will follow suit. No matter the make or size of your diesel vehicle, we’re proud to support you with the best service in Manitoba. We are located in the Diesel Service Centre at Western Turbo, 325 Eagle Drive in Winnipeg. Contact us online or by telephone toll-free at (800) 665-7556.