All-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab

The Largest Pickup Cab Ever

February 9, 2005 8:10 PM
Filed Under: American, Dodge

Press Release

Overview

Dodge Introduces the Largest Pickup Cab Ever
Offers Best-in-class Interior Room and Comfort
In the quest to make pickup truck cabs more spacious, more comfortable and more practical, the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab extends beyond the competition with the largest pickup cab ever. With class-leading interior room and comfort for six adult passengers and their gear, the Dodge Ram Mega Cab is in a class all its own.

The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab further solidifies the Dodge Ram truck lineup's long list of leadership claims: fastest, strongest, most powerful, most capable - and now, most spacious and versatile.

"Packaged with full-size Ram capability, the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab offers the most interior passenger space, cargo capacity and functionality of any pickup truck on the market," said Darryl Jackson, Vice President, Dodge Marketing, Chrysler Group. "Dodge Ram Mega Cab is the first and only pickup truck to comfortably seat six adults and provide enough interior storage space to bring along plenty of gear.

"Since the year 2000, demand for full-size crew cab pickup trucks has grown approximately 19 percent - and Dodge is responding with the spacious, capable and powerful 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab," added Jackson.

The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab's 145.2 cubic feet of interior space features the industry's most innovative seating and storage configurations, including the first reclining rear seats available in a pickup truck, tilting back from a 22 to 37 degree seatback angle for added comfort. The rear-passenger area of the Dodge Ram Mega Cab offers best-in-class leg room of 44.2 inches and the rear seats also split 60/40, fold down and move forward, providing numerous configurations for maximum interior cargo capacity and flexibility.

"Pickup truck buyers use their truck in a variety of different situations," said Jackson. "They use it for their daily driver, family road trips, and various recreational activities. The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab delivers ultimate versatility, offering the most functionally diverse cab ever created for pickup truck buyers who want more room, comfort and convenience."

Space in a Different Place
The starting point for the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab is the 160.5-inch wheelbase Ram 2500 long box model. Engineers re-proportioned the cab and the pickup box by replacing the eight-foot long box with the Ram 2500's six-foot, three-inch box, providing an additional 20 inches for the cab. The result is a cab length of 111.1 inches - more than 12 inches longer than the 2005 Ford F-250 Crew Cab.

"When it comes to pickup trucks, size matters, and Dodge delivers," said Mike Donoughe, Vice President, Body-on-Frame Product Team, Chrysler Group. "The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab features a cab of immense proportions, perfect for hauling the entire family, while also hauling heavy loads."

Premium amenities offered in the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab include a full-screen navigation radio, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, power-sliding rear window, heated front bucket seats, power sunroof and adjustable pedals.

Bold and Powerful Dodge Ram Design
The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab takes the bold and powerful Dodge Ram appearance to a new, even more contemporary level.

"Bold, powerful and capable is the theme of all Dodge Rams and that theme is clearly evident in the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab," said Rick Aneiros, Vice President, Truck Design, Chrysler Group. "The prominent chrome grille, supported by strong contemporary headlamps and a massive front bumper, gives the Dodge Ram Mega Cab a tough and intimidating appearance that is undoubtedly the face of Dodge Ram."

Offered in SLT and Laramie trim, the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab is instantly recognizable with its pronounced signature Ram crosshair grille and big-rig styling. The chrome crosshair grille and strong surround collar sit above Mega Cab's substantial bumper. The Dodge Ram Mega Cab's Laramie trim features a chrome front fascia appliqué, creating a rugged yet premium look.

The all-new Dodge Ram Mega Cab features a dual-lamp system, yet is designed with the premium look of quad headlamps. Lamps are precise in appearance and extend deep into the fender, giving the Dodge Ram Mega Cab's front end presence a truly distinctive look from both front and side views.

The new interior design of the 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab includes a wide center console that reinforces its large, interior dimensions. The instrument panel features precise gauges and large, user-friendly buttons and knobs. In addition, generous storage bins and compartments, flexible-sized cup holders, and premium materials create a functional and upscale atmosphere within the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab.

Full-size Pickup Truck Capability and Power
Available in Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 models, all 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cabs are built on the Dodge Ram Heavy Duty structure. Chassis, frame, axles, wheels and signature Dodge Ram Heavy Duty Cummins Turbo Diesel and HEMI® engines provide maximum power and payload capability, consistent with all Dodge Ram Heavy Duty trucks.

"The prerequisites for a full-size pickup truck are maximum power, maximum torque and maximum towing capability and the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab delivers on all three," said Donoughe. "The Dodge Ram Mega Cab consists of a proven frame and chassis design packaged with engines truck enthusiasts clamor for: Cummins and HEMI."

With two class-dominating engines offered, the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab provides the ultimate in full-size pickup power. The 5.9-liter High-Output Cummins Turbo Diesel, available on the 2500 and standard on the 3500 model, is rated at 610 lb.-ft. of best-in-class torque and 325 horsepower. It is available with a new six-speed manual transmission or an automatic transmission. The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, standard on the Dodge Ram Mega Cab 1500 and 2500 models, leads the crew cab segment with 345 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft. of torque, and is available with a five-speed automatic transmission.

Along with class-leading power, the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab retains Dodge Ram's heavy-duty towing and payload capability with a maximum towing capacity of 15,800 lbs., a payload of 2,840 lbs. and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVRW) ratings of 23,000 lbs. and 9,900 lbs., respectively.

Dodge Truck Leadership
The all-new Dodge Ram Mega Cab solidifies Ram's leadership in the full-size pickup market by offering the largest pickup truck cab on the planet with best-in-class interior room and comfort. Ram's leadership includes: The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab effectively expands the Dodge Truck product line, delivering a crew cab derivative model that complements the Dodge Ram regular and Quad Cab in the full-size pickup truck market.

Dodge Ram Heavy Duty trucks ranked first ("Heavy-Duty Full-Size Pickup") in the 2004 J.D. Power and Associates Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) and Initial Quality studies.

The Dodge Ram lineup has an 18 percent share of the pickup truck market. Dodge is the Chrysler Group's best-selling brand and the number four nameplate in the U.S. auto market, with 1.2 million vehicles sold in 2004.

The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab is covered by a 7-year/70,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty. The Cummins Turbo Diesel engine is covered by a separate 7-year/100,000-mile warranty.

Built at Chrysler Group's Saltillo, Mexico assembly plant, the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab will be available in dealerships in fall of 2005.

Interior

Cab of Mega Proportions Offers Innovation, Versatility, Capability and Comfort
The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab features an innovative interior that takes comfort and convenience to a new level in the full-size pickup segment. Its larger-than-life interior space offers seating for six adults, with plenty of head, shoulder, leg and hip room, and the most interior cargo storage and seating configurations available in the full-size pickup truck market.

“The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab handles numerous configurations of people and storage,� said Mike Donoughe, Vice President, Body-on-Frame Product Team, Chrysler Group. “Whether the cab is used for passengers, a secure place for large tools or recreational gear, or as a combination of the two, the Dodge Ram Mega Cab accommodates.�

Re-Proportioned
Based on the Dodge Ram 2500 Quad Cab long box model, the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab features a cab that is 20 inches longer, yet the overall vehicle length remains unchanged at 247.7 inches. Dodge engineers accomplished this by utilizing the Dodge Ram 2500’s six-foot, three-inch bed option instead of the eight-foot long box offering. This allowed engineers to add an extra 20 inches in length to the rear of the cab, resulting in the largest, most comfortable and functional pickup cab on the market in a truck that maintains the Ram’s heavy-duty bed capacity.

“With a full-size pickup bed measuring more than six-feet long and 66-inches wide, the all-new Dodge Ram Mega Cab offers excellent exterior load capacity,� said Donoughe. “Combined with maximum interior functionality, Dodge has created a pickup truck that provides the best of both worlds. The Dodge Ram Mega Cab clearly delivers the ultimate combination of space, comfort, versatility and capability.�

Redefining Comfort
To provide maximum comfort and convenience, the doors on the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab are front-hinged, with inside and outside handles and windows that travel all the way down. The rear doors open a full 85 degrees and boast a 34.5-inch wide opening – the largest rear-door opening in the market – providing easy entry and exit.

Inside the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab, rear-seat passengers will experience limousine-like comfort with the first-ever reclining rear seats offered in a pickup truck, a best-in-class 40.2-inch front-to-rear couple distance and 44.2 inches of leg room. The seats recline from a 22- to 37-degree seatback angle for added comfort, providing passengers ample room to stretch out and relax.

Additional rear seat comforts include separate rear air conditioning and heat outlets, reading lights and a center stowable armrest with cup holders. A DVD entertainment system that includes wireless headsets and integrated game ports, and new 6.5-inch speakers, is available in the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab.

Enhancing the spacious and open atmosphere of the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab interior is an available power sunroof.

New Level of Ram Versatility
When the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab’s interior needs to be utilized for dry and secure storage, the 60/40 split, two-position fold-down rear seats easily collapse and move forward, to create a class-leading 71 cubic feet of storage volume. In addition, a best-in-class flat-load floor area of 24.9 square feet and 7.6 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the rear seat, add to the Dodge Ram Mega Cab’s wide array of storage options.

The highlight of the many storage options is the standard 60/40 two-position fold-down rear seats that can be used in several configurations, including:

  1. Fold-down seatbacks: Seatback easily folds down while seat cushion and base stay in position, providing a quick solution when interior storage space is needed
  2. Fully deployed seats: Seatback folds down and entire seat moves forward, creating a flat storage area
  3. 60/40 split: One seatback easily folds down to accommodate gear, while the other stays upright for passengers
Ultimate Interior Convenience
Unique, large storage bins behind the rear seats in the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab can accommodate tools, sports equipment or just about any everyday item. Flip-open bin covers may be closed to conceal items or opened to stow larger items behind the rear seats. Also, tie-down hooks are offered, located on the cab-back.

The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab features numerous front-seat storage areas and amenities. A standard 40/20/40 front seat provides comfortable seating for three or ample center storage for one or two occupants. The center “20� portion of the seat offers additional "hidden" storage underneath the cushion.

A popular first-row center business console can store a laptop computer and features fold-down dividers. Equipped with two power points, one located in the instrument panel and another in the center storage console, the all-new Dodge Ram Mega Cab combines comfort with the versatility of a “go anywhere� rolling office that can haul and tow.

Also available in the 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab is UConnect™ hands-free communications system with Bluetooth™ technology. The system recognizes up to seven different Bluetooth-equipped cellular phones and responds to voice commands, utilizing a microphone in the rear-view mirror and the stereo system’s speakers for hands-free conversations.

A new seven-speaker, 384-watt Infinity® sound system with Ceramic Metal Matrix speakers is optional, as is Sirius® Satellite Radio. Engineering

Room with Vroom, Capability and Versatility
Capability and reliability are hallmarks of Dodge Ram Heavy Duty trucks and the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab upholds those high standards with class-leading torque, power and durability.

“Similar to all Dodge Ram trucks, the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab delivers an impressive list of power, towing and durability claims,� said Mike Donoughe, Vice President, Body-on-Frame Product Team. “Utilizing the Ram 2500’s frame and suspension architecture as the foundation, we developed three models of the Dodge Ram Mega Cab that offer a range of superior capability for different customer needs.�

Offered in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, the Dodge Ram Mega Cab is available in three models:

Dodge Ram Mega Cab 1500
Dodge Ram Mega Cab 2500
Dodge Ram Mega Cab 3500
It’s Got a Cummins, Or a HEMI
The Cummins Turbo Diesel is the king of the heavy-duty diesel segment with a class-dominating 610 lb.-ft. at 1,600 rpm and 325 horsepower at 2,900 rpm. That prodigious torque results in superior towing capability of 15,800 lbs., a payload of 2,840 lbs. and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) ratings of 23,000 lbs. and 9,900 lbs., respectively.

The Cummins “610� generates its peak torque of 610 lb.-ft. at 1,600 rpm, earlier than either Ford’s PowerStroke or Chevrolet’s Duramax® diesels. That translates to a noticeably better vehicle launch when towing and accelerating, better drivability and fewer and smoother shifts.

The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 produces 345 horsepower at 5,400 rpm and 375 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,200 rpm, providing more power than the competition’s standard V-8 engines. In fact, versus heavy-duty pickups with similar size gasoline engines, it provides best-in-class acceleration and towing capability.

Since first introducing the all-new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine for the 2003 model year, Chrysler Group has sold more than 469,000 vehicles with a HEMI inside and consecutively earned a place on Ward's 10 Best Engines list. The 2005 Dodge Ram’s HEMI take rate is 46 percent.

Precise Steering and Handling
The 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab offers two different steering systems: one for two-wheel drive and another for four-wheel drive versions.

A rack-and-pinion steering system is standard on all two-wheel drive Dodge Ram Mega Cabs, delivering precise feel and response, and tuned to give the driver control and positive feedback. On four-wheel drive versions, a recirculating ball system provides the quickest steering ratio in the industry. The 13.4:1 overall steering ratio and 2.75 turns lock-to-lock are especially effective when making tight turns or maneuvering a trailer in close quarters.

Smooth Ride, Uncompromised Capability
The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab provides superior on-road and off-road comfort with all-new monotube shock absorbers and advanced shock tuning that retain the Dodge Ram’s work capabilities. The new monotube shocks provide exceptional control and durability.

The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab features two different front suspensions: one for two-wheel drive and another for four-wheel drive models.

An independent front suspension is standard on two-wheel drive Dodge Ram Mega Cabs. On four-wheel drive versions, a rigid-beam front axle, with a refined five-link, coil-spring suspension is included. The solid beam front axle is validated for a 5,200 lbs. Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).

The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab’s rear suspension, common to both two- and four-wheel drive models, is equipped with a heavy-duty solid axle and longitudinal leaf springs. The standard two-stage springs have three leaves to carry normal loads while providing a comfortable ride, and an additional leaf to support heavy loads.

A 3.73 rear-axle ratio is standard on the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab. An optional 4.10 rear axle ratio offers an additional 2,000 lbs. of towing capability versus the 3.73 ratio.

The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab features an available limited slip differential and an electronic transfer case, available on four-wheel drive models. The electronic transfer case is optional on SLT models and standard on Laramie models.

Mega Stopping Power
The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab features robust standard brakes with brake rotors that measure 13.9 inches front and rear. Combined with a standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) and 17-inch wheels and tires, the all-new brakes provide the Dodge Ram Mega Cab with excellent safety and crash avoidance capability.

Electronic Variable Brake Proportioning (EVBP) is a component of the standard rear anti-lock braking system on the all-new Dodge Ram Mega Cab. EVBP is designed to better balance front-to-rear braking effort by making better use of the rear brakes when the truck is lightly loaded.

Refinement
With occupant comfort central to the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab, several new features contribute to the vehicle’s refinement.

New powertrain and cab mounts and new lamented glass, door cut-line seals and seals along the A-pillar have been installed to reduce outside noise from entering the cabin.

Safety and Security
The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab employs a two-fold safety approach. Conventional safety features, such as pretensioning and constant-force seat belt retractors and air bags, combined with accident avoidance features, including precise steering, handling and braking.

As is the case with all Dodge Ram Heavy Duty models, the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab offers class-exclusive supplemental side air bag inflatable curtains (SABIC) and power adjustable pedals (on both automatic and manual transmission-equipped trucks). The side curtain air bags offered in the Dodge Ram Mega Cab are the largest in the industry, extending head protection to all outboard front and rear seat passengers.

Standard on the all-new Dodge Ram Mega Cab are next-generation driver and front-passenger air bags.

The 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab also includes standard Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren (LATCH) child seat anchorage system. The LATCH system works in conjunction with the standard child seat tether anchors to make it easier to attach child seats.

Following are safety and security features available in the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab:

Design

Bold, Modern Dodge Ram Exterior
With its signature crosshair grille, strong surround collar and distinctive headlamps that communicate power and vigor, Dodge Ram’s unique and bold identity is instantly recognizable in the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab.

“The bold, in-your-face styling of the Dodge Ram is further amplified in the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab,� said Rick Aneiros, Vice President, Truck Design. “One look at the Ram Mega Cab’s front end and there is no doubt that Dodge is all about strength and robustness.�

The 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab’s new fully chrome, ingot-like grille sits over a massive front bumper, creating a bold and protective image. The substantial grille remains a mainstay of communicating the powerful and prominent Dodge Ram design signature, with the large crosshair as the focal point. Moved from the top of the grille to the center of the crosshair is the signature Ram’s head.

“We have refined pickup truck styling elements for the Dodge Ram Mega Cab while enhancing the boldness and power that defines all Dodge Rams,� said Aneiros.

New for the Dodge Ram Mega Cab’s Laramie trim is a one-piece body-colored fascia with integrated fog lamps and a chrome appliqué. The chrome accents add to the bold and rugged appearance, yet offer a premium look.

The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab grille is flanked by large, angular headlamp modules, which utilize halogen bulbs to provide 22 percent more light intensity than previous Dodge Rams.

The headlamps extend deep into the fenders and provide a contemporary and disciplined look. Combined in the headlamp assembly are large, circular parking lamps, creating the impression of quad headlamps. The Dodge Ram Mega Cab’s turn-signal lamps run full length along the base of the headlamps, achieving a significant presence, while providing a benefit to fellow motorists.

The bold front appearance of the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab is supported by an equally bold hood and fender combination. The hood features a pronounced crown effect that slopes to the prominent front fenders, precisely intersecting the body to enhance the overall bold stance. Underneath the fenders are all-new aluminum-forged 17-inch wheels.

All-new rear doors and cab-back panel are squared off to reinforce the big-rig theme of the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab. Large rear windows dramatically convey and express a voluminous interior and enhance the open-air environment for rear-seat passengers.

Interior Conveys Size, Refinement
The interior of the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab is spacious and sophisticated. Upscale finishes and consistent angles and cut lines are evident throughout the interior, delivering a clean and simple form that is functional and methodical in appearance.

“The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab has specific interior requirements, with space, storage and passenger comfort being imperative,� said Aneiros. “By properly utilizing the space with user-friendly amenities and complementing those features with refined materials and crisp lines, the Dodge Ram Mega Cab’s interior appears purposeful, yet polished.�

A new instrument panel cluster, placed underneath a new cluster brow designed to reduce glare, features six, precise white-faced gauges. The 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab’s all-new, wide center stack contains a new audio system, featuring large knobs and precise buttons, and new heating, ventilation and air-conditioning controls.

The all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab features a four-spoke steering wheel with cruise control buttons and available stereo controls. Placed across the dashboard are new “Venetian Blind-style� air vents that close flush and provide a clean appearance.

All-new seats, with available leather trim, provide substantial bolstering and generous support while adding a rich appearance to the all-new 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab’s interior. Optional buckets seats include a new center console that extends from the dashboard.