A number of automakers sell previous-generation models alongside their newer replacement while production ramps up, but FCA could change that strategy by keeping the Ram 1500 Classic around and even updating it.
As Motor Trend noticed, FCA CEO Mike Manley used the company’s second quarter earnings presentation to reveal the they’re not in a rush to phase out the previous-generation Ram 1500. It fact, he even suggested the company could update it in the future.
While it sounds odd that FCA would bother investing in an old pickup, there are a number of reasons for this. First and foremost, the truck is popular with consumers. The company doesn’t break down individual sales by truck nameplate, but noted the “successful launch of the all-new Ram heavy-duty pickup, along with the continued success of the all-new and Classic Ram 1500, resulted in a U.S. large pickup market share of 27.9% in Q2, up 7 ppts from last year.”
Besides being popular, the Ram 1500 Classic gives consumers a stepping stone to the new Ram 1500. This role is typically filled by mid-sized pickups, but Ram hasn’t had once since the Dakota was phased out nearly a decade ago.
The 2019 Ram 1500 Classic starts at $27,645 which makes it significantly less expensive than the new 1500 that begins at $33,440. It’s also worth mentioning that the 1500 Classic is even more affordable than the mid-sized Jeep Gladiator which starts at $33,545. Of course, the latter model comes standard with a crew cab configuration and four-wheel drive.
Also Read: FCA Continues Offering Legacy Pickup As The Ram 1500 Classic
There’s no word on what updates the Ram 1500 Classic could receive, but the model is already a decade and the company probably doesn’t want to send a ton of money on it. However, it’s possible they could be considering a minor facelift.
That remains unclear, but Ram hasn’t neglected the 1500 Classic. Earlier this year, they introduced the Ram 1500 Classic Warlock which boasts powder-coated bumpers, an increased ride height and special decals.
