2013 Ram 1500 Pulls In Truck of the Year Award from Detroit Free Press

HOT SPRINGS, Ark., Jan. 03, 2013 — As a trusted newspaper in the home city of the Big Three automakers, the Detroit Free Press takes an up-close look at the industry, and it has used its inside knowledge to name the 2013 Ram 1500 its Truck of the Year. The redesigned pickup was lauded by veteran automotive journalist Mark Phelan for its impressive mix of capability and fuel economy, its new optional air suspension and its next-generation infotainment system.

Returning a best-in-class 25 mpg on the highway, the 2013 Ram 1500 incorporates a variety of new additions to achieve its efficiency, including an eight-speed automatic transmission, auto stop-start technology, a high-strength, lightweight steel frame and a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. Inside the cabin, the available Uconnect access system lets drivers make hands-free phone calls, initiate voice-activated navigation requests, stream Internet radio and even turn the truck into a Wi-Fi hotspot.

"The redesigned Ram 1500 offers something for everybody, whether you need it to work hard during day-to-day hauling or need a capable commuter that doesn't drain your wallet at the gas pump," said Tim Parker, dealer principal of Tim Parker Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, a Hot Springs, Arkansas Ram dealer. "The Detroit Free Press recognized the multifaceted approach Ram took in updating its popular pickup, and that approach meets a variety of truck drivers' needs."

The Detroit Free Press 2013 Truck of the Year award comes on the heels of another accolade for the revamped Ram 1500, with the pickup's new V6 recently landing on the 2013 Ward's 10 Best Engines list. While the Pentastar powerplant has been praised by editors in the past for its use in crossovers, luxury sedans and muscle cars, WardsAuto was equally impressed with its latest application in the Ram 1500, noting the unit's ability to deliver an abundance of low-end torque while reducing fuel consumption.

Despite its leading fuel economy, the new Pentastar V6 still generates 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. For buyers who want even more power and capability, the Ram 1500's 5.7-liter HEMI V8 returned for the 2013 model year, churning out 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. Even with that massive output, the HEMI-equipped Ram 1500 manages to net a respectable 20 mpg on the highway.

"Trucks shouldn't be left behind as manufacturers work to improve fuel economy, and the new Ram 1500 is proof that the right moves can result in huge efficiency gains," added Parker. "Ram knows that you don't earn Truck of the Year awards on fuel efficiency alone though, and that's why its latest pickup still has all the capability and convenience that truck buyers now demand."

About Tim Parker Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram:
A winner of Chrysler's Five-Star Dealer and Environmental Leadership awards, Tim Parker Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram has been serving Arkansas drivers for years with new and pre-owned car sales, service and parts at their Hot Springs auto dealership. Whether you're looking for a Ram 1500, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger or Jeep Wrangler, Tim Parker Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram will find your ideal model with their unmatched customer-first approach. You can visit their showroom located at 4722 Central Ave. in Hot Springs, call them at 888-227-1487 or find them online at www.timparkerchrysler.com. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TimParkerAuto.