Touchscreen infotainment systems were once only available for luxury coupes and sedans. They were special features for those who would pay extra to turn their car’s interiors into something approximating living rooms. Such was not the case with pickup trucks, particularly heavy-duty trucks, which were viewed as utilitarian in nature, prized for their ruggedness and functionality as opposed to luxury. Ram changed all that when it introduced the new Ram 2500 in the 2019 model year. Gone were the boxy, uncomfortable interiors that never let you forget that you were inside a pickup truck. In its place was comfort, luxury, and, best of all, an interactive touchscreen infotainment system. The folks at Fiat Chrysler America were determined to give their line of Ram Trucks the prized Uconnect System that had drawn so much attention among automotive fans. The key is matching the New Ram 2500 Infotainment System to the heavy-duty truck so that it provides a sound system and ergonomic controls that will enhance your time in the car without interfering with the well known and loved trucking experience.
The Infotainment System that helps You Connect
Uconnect is an exceptional, user-friendly system that integrates your smartphone and your truck in an easy and convenient way. Bluetooth streaming audio helps you make phone calls through your smartphone with just a touch of the screen. It is hands-free, so you won’t get distracted pushing buttons while making your call. Uconnect also allows you to integrate the apps and features on your smartphone using either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, depending on your phone’s operating system. How easy is it? I was able to get my music streaming from Spotify within minutes and without the help of a Millennial. Uconnect puts you in charge, helping you connect with your calls, music, podcasts, navigation, and whatever else you can imagine. It can even turn your Ram truck into a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, all at the touch of a button.
Largest Available Touchscreen in its Class
While the standard Uconnect screen on Ram 2500 trucks is a 7-inch, full color, 3D animation capable instrument panel, Ram also offers a slightly larger 8.4-inch screen on some models. This puts total control is at your fingertips with Uconnect 4C. Included in the package are vehicle notifications, SOS assistance, a rear backup camera, climate controls, and a whole host of entertainment features. There are also two convenient USB ports for charging and connecting your mobile devices. In addition, the new Ram 2500 is the first truck in its class to offer a 12-inch touchscreen as an option. This touchscreen is the largest available, and it is like having your tablet computer connected to your truck. It is so large that it makes other touchscreens look like a toy in comparison.
Infotainment across 2020 Ram 2500 Trim Levels
The base model 2020 Ram 2500, the Tradesman, doesn’t skimp on infotainment even if it is the entry-level trim for this truck. For an MSRP of $33,695, you get a Uconnect 4 system with AM/FM radio on a 4-speaker stereo system, with satellite-radio capability. There are voice activated audio controls, external digital memory controls, and wireless connectivity, all on an LCD monitor touchscreen. This allows you to work your Uconnect system without having to take your hands off the wheel, cutting down on driver distraction.
The Ram 2500 Big Horn adds 6-speakers and a radio data system, all for only $42,650. The Ram 2500 Power Wagon includes a one-year subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio and two LCD touchscreens, all for an MSRP of $53,350. The Laramie edition of the Ram 2500 goes it a step further with a 10-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system. It also features steering wheel controls for ease of use, and speed-sensitive volume to increase vehicle safety when driving faster. The Laramie has an MSRP of $49,450 and also features two LCD touchscreens. The 2020 Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn and Limited feature the state-of-the-art Uconnect 4C with navigation system. This has a 10-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system, HD radio, and an integrated navigation system with voice activation. You can simply tell the system the address you are looking for, and the system will program the navigation for you without having to fumble through various controls. The Laramie Longhorn has an MSRP of $56,850, and the Limited has an MSRP of $61,650.
However, if you want to get the ultimate stereo experience in your Ram 2500 truck, you can opt for a Harman Kardon premium audio system with 17 speakers and a 750-watt multi-channel amplifier with surround sound. This is the ultimate system for the true audiophile. It also makes Ram 2500 the first truck to offer that many speakers in its cabin. You will turn the cabin of your Ram 2500 into your own concert hall, with a sound that is so crisp and clear, you and your passengers will be convinced that you are having your own private Bruno Mars concert in the payload of your truck. While Ram cannot supply Bruno Mars or any other famous stars, it can guarantee that you will be thoroughly amazed by this 17 speakers audio system.
Some Serious Apps with SiriusXM
Also offered with Ram 2500s is SiriusXM. If you are like me, you probably were not aware that SiriusXM is more than just the greatest satellite radio system. Sure, they offer music in every genre from rock, pop, and hip hop to blues, soul, country, and classical. They also provide plenty of news shows and Howard Stern. But what you probably didn’t know is that SiriusXM offers programming that can help you get through traffic, plan your trip, and even roadside assistance if you get stuck somewhere.
SiriusXM Traffic Plus provides real-time information that you need to get to where you need to go. This includes detailed information on traffic accidents, construction delays, road closures, and traffic speed. It is like having your own co-pilot and navigator. This data will help you shorten any long commute and avoid any delays, especially if you are in a rush to get somewhere.
SiriusXM Travel Link is another indispensable program for you and your Ram 2500 truck. This service provides 5-day weather forecasts, weather maps, and severe storm alerts. Once you have SiriusXM Travel Link, you will no longer have to rely on spotty weather information from local news radio stations. This gives you the weather information you need in real-time. This feature is especially helpful if you are using your Ram 2500 for business, whether towing a trailer or carrying a payload. With these details at your hand, you can do a better job of securing your trailer and cargo and preparing for whatever the road ahead has in store for you.
Finally, SiriusXM Guardian acts as another layer of safety and security for you and your truck. Guardian links you to Roadside Assistance in the unfortunate event that you are stuck or in an accident and need immediate assistance. This is especially important when you are driving your Ram 2500 to remote locations. There are also navigation features and security alerts that will get you where you are going and keep you safe while you are getting there. And yes, you can do it while listening to your favorite music or laughing along to Howard Stern.
Ram 2500: More Than Just a Truck
The Ram 2500 may be known for being the toughest, most dependable, and most versatile heavy-duty truck on the road today. However, it is also one of the first to offer an infotainment system, the Uconnect 4, that transcends others in the marketplace, and will make getting where you are going even more fun.
