(December 27, 2012) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — The new 2013 Ram 1500 has been named The Detroit Free Press Truck of the Year. The Free Press is a leader in covering autos and the automotive industry.

Veteran automotive industry journalist Mark Phelan, writing for the Detroit Free Press, explained "Chrysler could have gotten away with a mere face-lift for the 2013 Ram 1500 pickup. Instead, it provided a glimpse of the pickup of the future, a truck that combines workhorse capability with fuel efficiency."

Earlier this year the Ram was named Motor Trend Truck of the Year, and the Ram is one of three finalists for North American truck of the year. The Ram was also named "Truck of Texas" at the annual Texas Auto Writers Truck Rodeo in October.

"The new Ram 1500 takes a massive step forward in technology and fuel economy, representing the direction the Ram Truck Brand is heading with all its models," said Fred Diaz, president and CEO Ram Truck Brand .

"We are honored to have an endorsement from the Detroit Free Press and Mark Phelan. This award will be well-received by our dealers and customers, reiterating the fact that Ram has the best truck on the market."

For 2013, the new Ram 1500 offers buyers best-in-class 25 mpg fuel efficiency, new technology and new features without sacrificing capability. Ram 1500–the most recognizable pickup on the road–marks a milestone for Ram as this truck delivers a truckload of pioneering and fuel-saving systems. Equipped with a choice of engines, including the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine or the award-winning Pentastar V-6, the Ram 1500 offers the best powertrains in the industry and are known for their reliability.

The 2013 Ram 1500 features first-in-segment technologies: eight-speed automatic transmission, stop-start system, thermal management system, pulse-width modulation and active aerodynamics, including grille shutters and active air suspension. The 2013 Ram 1500 is available in nine trim levels and starts at $23,585 including $995 destination charge.

Ram engineers changed every area of the truck — from a newly designed frame to new engines and transmissions to a new interior with the next-generation Uconnect access system. With best-in-class ride and handling and best-in-class aerodynamics, the 2013 Ram 1500 delivers unmatched content, performance and capability to truck buyers.