The HEMI V-8 engine can transition from eight cylinders to four in 40 milliseconds (0.040 seconds). Improved fuel economy is realized without any change in customer experience as drivers receive the benefit of MDS without changing their driving habits. Customers will experience fuel economy gains of up to 20 percent under various driving conditions.

A new Variable Line Pressure (VLP) transmission for the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 with the 3.7-liter V-6 engine improves fuel economy and provides smoother shifts between gears.

Adding to the fuel-efficiency formula, the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 model is equipped with a front-axle-disconnect system, designed to disengage the front-axle driveshaft when operating in two-wheel drive. This minimizes the front-drive system’s energy consumption and improves fuel economy.

The 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 also features new reduce-drag brake calipers and a rear spoiler to improve vehicle aerodynamics. The spoiler is positioned on the rear liftgate.

IMPROVED RIDE AND HANDLING
Building on the previous Dodge Ram 1500’s superior ride quality, the new 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 again raises the bar with a new frame and suspension that deliver a smooth, confident and highly capable driving experience.

“Keeping in mind that more and more truck buyers use their vehicles for both work and personal use, we designed the new 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 to strike a perfect balance of comfort and refinement with exceptional capability,” Donoughe said. “The ride is refined while controlled, the steering is taut and the cab is quiet—all of which adds up to the most poised and capable Dodge Ram 1500 ever created.”

When the previous Dodge Ram 1500 was introduced in 2002, the foundation was a new frame that featured the highest use of hydroforming on any full-size pickup truck at that time. The new 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 again utilizes a new hydroformed frame achieving even greater stiffness.

Adding to the smooth ride of the Dodge Ram 1500 is a new suspension system that quickly reacts and absorbs bumps, yet stays firmly planted to the road. The Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 model utilizes a new coil-over-shock absorber and double wishbone front suspension. Mounting the shock absorber inside the coil spring enables four-wheel-drive models to benefit from the coil spring’s added tuning characteristics. The Dodge Ram 1500 4x2 model retains its coil spring, double wishbone independent front suspension.