2018 Ram 1500: Everything Knoxville Drivers Need to Know
The 2018 Ram 1500 continues to excel in ride quality, comfort, and capability while offering proven powertrains and competitive features. The 2018 Ram 1500 is great for East Tennessee drivers. It offers comfort and performance. This truck is a good value in the used market. Its strong engineering and reliability make it perfect for tough jobs. It is also comfortable for family use in the Knoxville area.
Quick Comparison Overview
Tradesman Trim: Work-focused, vinyl seating, essential features | Varies by engine | Best for commercial applications
Express Trim: Value-oriented, cloth seating, basic comfort features | Varies by engine | Best for budget-conscious buyers
SLT Trim: Mid-level comfort, upgraded interior, convenience features | Varies by engine | Most popular choice
Big Horn Trim: Enhanced styling, chrome accents, upgraded technology | Varies by engine | Best for style and features
Outdoorsman Trim: Off-road capability, rugged styling, enhanced traction | Varies by engine | Best for adventure seekers
Sport Trim: Performance-oriented, unique styling, sport suspension | Varies by engine | Best for performance enthusiasts
Rebel Trim: Off-road focused, lifted suspension, aggressive styling | Varies by engine | Best for serious off-road use
Laramie Trim: Luxury features, leather interior, premium technology | Varies by engine | Best for comfort and luxury
Laramie Longhorn Trim: Western luxury, premium materials, distinctive styling | Varies by engine | Best for unique style
Limited Trim: Top luxury, advanced features, premium materials | Varies by engine | Best for ultimate refinement
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What's New for 2018
The 2018 Ram 1500 receives several important updates:
- Enhanced Uconnect system with improved processing and functionality
- New Harvest Edition package available on select trims
- Updated interior trim options and material improvements
- Additional technology features and connectivity options
- New exterior color choices and wheel designs
Trim Level Breakdown
2018 Ram 1500 Tradesman
The Tradesman delivers essential work truck capability with proven durability, making it the ideal choice for Knoxville contractors and fleet operators who prioritize functionality over amenities.
Key Features:
- 3.6L V6 Pentastar engine standard
- Vinyl bench seating or cloth bucket seats
- Manual air conditioning
- 5" touchscreen radio system
- Steel wheels with trim rings
- Heavy-duty engine cooling package available
2018 Ram 1500 Express
The Express provides enhanced value with additional comfort and convenience features while maintaining work capability and competitive pricing for East Tennessee buyers.
Key Features:
- Cloth seating surfaces
- Power windows and door locks
- Remote keyless entry
- Chrome grille and rear bumper
- 17" steel wheels with covers
- Air conditioning with manual controls
2018 Ram 1500 SLT
The SLT offers the perfect balance of comfort and capability, making it the popular choice among East Tennessee families who need versatility for both work and daily transportation.
Key Features:
- Cloth bucket seats with center console
- Power-adjustable driver seat
- 5" Uconnect touchscreen
- Bluetooth hands-free connectivity
- Fog lamps and chrome exterior trim
- 17" aluminum wheels
2018 Ram 1500 Big Horn
The Big Horn enhances visual appeal with chrome styling and upgraded technology for drivers who want their truck to look as impressive as it performs on East Tennessee roads.
Key Features:
- Premium cloth seating
- 8.4" Uconnect touchscreen system
- Chrome exterior styling package
- Heated exterior mirrors with signals
- Remote start system
- 18" aluminum wheels
2018 Ram 1500 Outdoorsman
Designed for off-road adventures, the Outdoorsman provides enhanced capability for East Tennessee drivers who regularly explore challenging terrain beyond paved roads.
Key Features:
- Off-road package with protective skid plates
- All-terrain tires and heavy-duty suspension
- Electronic locking rear differential
- Front tow hooks and hill descent control
- Unique Outdoorsman styling and badging
- 18" aluminum wheels
2018 Ram 1500 Sport
The Sport trim combines performance-focused features with distinctive styling for drivers who want enhanced handling characteristics and aggressive appearance.
Key Features:
- Sport-tuned suspension and steering
- 20" aluminum wheels with performance tires
- Unique sport styling package
- Performance exhaust system
- Sport interior with distinctive trim
- Enhanced handling dynamics
2018 Ram 1500 Rebel
The Rebel delivers serious off-road capability with factory lift and rugged styling for East Tennessee's most adventurous drivers who demand maximum trail performance.
Key Features:
- 1-inch factory lift with off-road suspension
- 33-inch all-terrain tires
- Front and rear skid plates with tow hooks
- Electronic locking front and rear differentials
- Unique Rebel styling with blacked-out elements
- Hill descent control and terrain management system
2018 Ram 1500 Laramie
Premium comfort and luxury features make the Laramie ideal for East Tennessee drivers who want truck capability combined with refined comfort and advanced technology integration.
Key Features:
- Leather-trimmed bucket seats
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Power-adjustable pedals with memory settings
- Premium audio system with subwoofer
- 8.4" Uconnect with navigation system
- 20" chrome-clad aluminum wheels
2018 Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn
The Longhorn combines Western-inspired luxury with premium materials for drivers who want a truck that reflects sophisticated taste and unique personality.
Key Features:
- Premium leather interior with genuine wood accents
- Unique Longhorn badges and Western styling cues
- Advanced technology and luxury amenities
- Premium Harman Kardon audio system
- Distinctive interior and exterior appointments
- Luxury-focused comfort and convenience features
2018 Ram 1500 Limited
The flagship Limited trim offers the ultimate in luxury and technology, featuring Ram's most advanced features for discerning drivers who demand premium refinement.
Key Features:
- Premium leather seating with unique stitching
- Heated and cooled front and rear seats
- Advanced infotainment and navigation systems
- Premium audio with multiple speakers
- Distinctive Limited styling elements and trim
- Top-tier luxury appointments throughout interior
Performance & Fuel Economy
The 2018 Ram 1500 offers three proven engine options:
3.6L V6 Pentastar (Standard):
- Power: 305 horsepower, 269 lb-ft torque
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Fuel Economy: 17 city/25 highway MPG (2WD)
5.7L HEMI V8:
- Power: 395 horsepower, 410 lb-ft torque
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Fuel Economy: 15 city/22 highway MPG (2WD)
3.0L EcoDiesel V6:
- Power: 240 horsepower, 420 lb-ft torque
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Fuel Economy: 20 city/28 highway MPG (2WD)
Safety & Technology
Standard Safety Features:
- Electronic stability control with roll mitigation
- Trailer sway control and hill start assist
- Advanced multistage front airbags
- Supplemental side-curtain and front-seat airbags
- Tire pressure monitoring system
Available Technology:
- 8.4" Uconnect touchscreen system
- Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming
- SiriusXM satellite radio
- Navigation system with real-time traffic
- Premium Harman Kardon audio system
Interior & Comfort
The 2018 Ram 1500 offers versatile interior configurations:
Seating & Space:
- Regular Cab: seating for up to 3 passengers
- Quad Cab: seating for up to 6 passengers
- Crew Cab: seating for up to 6 passengers
- Class-leading rear seat legroom in Crew Cab
- Extensive interior storage compartments
Comfort Features:
- Available leather-appointed seating surfaces
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Power-adjustable seats with memory function
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Premium audio systems available
Why Knoxville Drivers Love the Ram 1500
Superior Ride Comfort: Best-in-class ride quality due to coil spring rear suspension provides smooth, comfortable performance on East Tennessee roads.
Strong Towing Performance: Up to 10,650 pounds towing capacity when properly equipped handles recreational vehicles and work trailers with confidence.
EcoDiesel Fuel Efficiency: Available 3.0L EcoDiesel delivers excellent fuel economy up to 28 MPG highway while providing strong torque for towing and hauling applications.
Rebel Off-Road Capability: Factory lift and enhanced traction systems provide serious off-road performance for Smoky Mountain trail adventures.
Spacious Interior Design: Generous passenger space and clever storage solutions make the Ram 1500 practical for both commercial applications and family use.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
What is the maximum towing capacity of the 2018 Ram 1500? The 2018 Ram 1500 can tow up to 10,650 pounds when properly equipped with the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine and appropriate towing package. Actual towing capacity varies by engine choice, cab configuration, and equipment level.
How reliable is the EcoDiesel engine in the 2018 Ram 1500? The 2018 EcoDiesel received continued improvements, but some models still experienced emissions system issues. When considering a used EcoDiesel, verify complete maintenance records and any recall work completion.
What's the difference between Regular, Quad, and Crew cab configurations? Regular Cab seats up to 3 with longest bed options, Quad Cab has smaller rear doors and seats up to 6, while Crew Cab offers full-size rear doors and the most rear passenger space.
How does the 2018 Ram 1500 compare to Chevrolet Silverado? The Ram 1500 typically offers superior ride quality due to its coil spring suspension, while the Silverado may have advantages in certain towing and payload configurations depending on specific models compared.
What bed lengths are available on the 2018 Ram 1500? Available bed lengths include 5'7" (Crew Cab only), 6'4" (Quad and Crew Cab), and 8' (Regular and Quad Cab only), providing flexibility for different cargo requirements.
Are there any common issues with the 2018 Ram 1500? Some models experienced occasional 8-speed transmission shifting concerns and EcoDiesel emissions system issues. Most problems were addressed through software updates and manufacturer recalls.
What's included with the Harvest Edition package? The Harvest Edition package includes unique interior and exterior styling elements, special wheels, and distinctive badging for a limited-time appearance package available on select trims.
Which engine should I choose for the best fuel economy? The 3.0L EcoDiesel provides the best fuel economy at up to 28 MPG highway, while the 3.6L V6 offers good efficiency and the 5.7L HEMI provides maximum power and towing capability.
How does the Rebel's off-road capability compare to competitors? The Rebel offers solid off-road performance with factory lift, locking differentials, and all-terrain tires at a competitive price point, though some competitors offer more extreme off-road packages.
What should I check when buying a used 2018 Ram 1500? Inspect maintenance records, verify recall completion, test transmission operation, check suspension components, and for EcoDiesel models, ensure emissions system maintenance is properly documented and current.