Chrysler’s Ram Pickup Tops Consumer Reports Truck Rating

Chrysler Group LLC's 2013 Ram 1500 fullsize pickup truck has outscored all rivals for the first time ever in ratings by Consumer Reports magazine.

CR cites the redesigned Ram's "impressive performance" for earning the truck a score of 78 out of a possible 100 points. That compares with scores of 69 for the Toyota Tundra and 68 for the Ford F-150 trucks.

The magazine bases its assessment on road tests of a crew cab model equipped with Chrysler's 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission. CR praises the Ram's stiffer frame, smooth-riding coil-spring rear suspension and improved infotainment system.

But the magazine cautions that the Ram's top rating may soon be challenged by the redesigned 2014 Chevrolet Silverado fullsize pickup. CR, which is testing the Chevy truck now, will reveal its findings later this summer.