Let's dive deep into the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 Sport, a truck that perfectly blends rugged capability with a sporty aesthetic. For those of you considering adding this beast to your garage or just wanting to know more, this comprehensive review covers everything from performance specs to interior features. Think of this as your ultimate guide to understanding what makes the 2017 Ram 1500 Sport stand out in a crowded truck market.

Performance and Engine Options

When it comes to trucks, performance is king. The 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 Sport offers several engine options, each designed to deliver the power and reliability you need, whether you're hauling heavy loads or just cruising around town. Let's break down each option:

• 3.6L Pentastar V6: The base engine is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, producing around 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. This engine is perfect for those who need a reliable workhorse without the overkill of a larger engine. It provides ample power for everyday tasks and decent fuel economy, making it a practical choice for many drivers. The V6 is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and efficient gear changes.
• 5.7L HEMI V8: For those craving more power, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 is the way to go. This engine cranks out 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, offering significantly more muscle for towing and hauling. The HEMI V8 is renowned for its robust performance and distinctive exhaust note. It also features cylinder deactivation, which helps improve fuel economy by shutting off four cylinders when full power isn't needed. This engine is also paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
• 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: If you're looking for the best of both worlds—power and fuel efficiency—the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 is an excellent choice. This engine delivers 240 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, providing strong low-end torque for towing and excellent fuel economy for long drives. The EcoDiesel is a great option for those who frequently tow or travel long distances, as it offers impressive fuel savings compared to the V8. It also comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

All engine options come standard with rear-wheel drive, but four-wheel drive is available for those who need extra traction in challenging conditions. The 2017 Ram 1500 Sport also features a coil-spring rear suspension, which provides a more comfortable and controlled ride compared to the leaf-spring suspensions found in some other trucks. This makes the Ram 1500 Sport a great choice for both work and everyday driving. The different engine choices allow buyers to customize their truck to fit their specific needs and preferences, ensuring that there's a Ram 1500 Sport for everyone.

Interior and Technology

Moving inside, the 2017 Ram 1500 Sport doesn't disappoint. The interior is designed with both comfort and functionality in mind, making it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're on a long road trip or just running errands around town. The Sport trim adds unique touches that enhance the overall experience, setting it apart from other Ram 1500 models. Let's explore the key interior and technology features:

• Uconnect Infotainment System: The centerpiece of the interior is the Uconnect infotainment system. This system is known for its user-friendly interface, responsive touchscreen, and wide range of features. Standard on the Sport trim is an 8.4-inch touchscreen display, which provides clear and crisp graphics. The Uconnect system includes features like Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. Navigation is also available, making it easy to find your way around, even in unfamiliar areas. The system also supports voice commands, allowing you to control various functions without taking your hands off the wheel.
• Premium Seating: The 2017 Ram 1500 Sport comes with premium cloth or available leather seating, providing a comfortable and supportive driving experience. The front seats are well-bolstered, offering good support during long drives. Heated and ventilated front seats are also available, adding an extra layer of comfort in extreme weather conditions. The rear seats are spacious and comfortable, with plenty of legroom for passengers. The Sport trim also includes unique interior accents, such as red stitching and embroidered logos, which add a touch of sporty flair to the cabin.
• Advanced Safety Features: Safety is a top priority in the 2017 Ram 1500 Sport. The truck comes standard with a variety of advanced safety features, including electronic stability control, traction control, and antilock brakes. Available safety features include a rearview camera, parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring. These features help to improve driver awareness and reduce the risk of accidents. The Ram 1500 Sport also features a strong and durable frame, which provides excellent protection in the event of a collision. With its combination of advanced safety features and robust construction, the 2017 Ram 1500 Sport offers peace of mind for both drivers and passengers.
• Storage Solutions: The 2017 Ram 1500 Sport offers plenty of storage solutions to keep your belongings organized. The center console is large and spacious, providing ample room for storing personal items. There are also numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin, including door pockets, a glove box, and under-seat storage bins. The rear seats can be folded up to create even more storage space, making it easy to haul larger items. The Ram 1500 Sport also features a durable bedliner, which protects the bed from scratches and dents. With its combination of interior and exterior storage solutions, the 2017 Ram 1500 Sport is well-equipped to handle all your hauling and storage needs.

The attention to detail in the interior design, combined with the advanced technology features, makes the 2017 Ram 1500 Sport a standout in its class. Whether you're using it for work or play, the interior of this truck is sure to impress.

Exterior Design and Features

The 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 Sport isn't just about what's under the hood; its exterior design makes a bold statement. The Sport trim adds unique visual elements that set it apart from the standard Ram 1500, giving it a more aggressive and athletic appearance. Let's take a closer look at the exterior design and features that make this truck a head-turner:

• Sport-Specific Styling: The Sport trim includes several unique styling elements that enhance the truck's overall appearance. These include a body-color grille, bumpers, and door handles, which give the truck a more cohesive and streamlined look. The Sport trim also features blacked-out headlights and taillights, adding to its aggressive vibe. Available options include a sport hood with functional air intakes and unique badging. These styling cues give the Ram 1500 Sport a distinctive and sporty appearance, setting it apart from other trucks in its class.
• Wheel Options: The 2017 Ram 1500 Sport comes with a variety of wheel options, ranging from 20-inch to 22-inch aluminum wheels. These wheels are designed to complement the truck's sporty styling and enhance its overall appearance. Available finishes include polished aluminum, black, and chrome. The larger wheels not only look great but also improve the truck's handling and stability. With its wide range of wheel options, the Ram 1500 Sport allows you to customize the truck to your personal taste.
• Bed Features: The 2017 Ram 1500 Sport is available with a variety of bed features to enhance its functionality. These include a spray-in bedliner, which protects the bed from scratches and dents. Available options include a tri-fold tonneau cover, which keeps your cargo safe and secure. The Ram 1500 Sport also features a multi-function tailgate, which can be opened in a variety of ways to make loading and unloading cargo easier. These bed features make the Ram 1500 Sport a versatile and practical truck for both work and play.
• Lighting: The 2017 Ram 1500 Sport comes standard with halogen headlights and taillights, providing excellent visibility in all conditions. Available options include LED headlights and taillights, which offer even better visibility and a more modern look. The Sport trim also features fog lights, which help to improve visibility in foggy or snowy conditions. These lighting features ensure that you can see and be seen, no matter the weather.

The exterior design of the 2017 Ram 1500 Sport is both stylish and functional, making it a great choice for those who want a truck that looks as good as it performs. The Sport trim's unique styling elements, combined with its practical features, make it a standout in the truck market.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 Sport offers a driving experience that's both comfortable and engaging. The truck's coil-spring rear suspension provides a smooth and controlled ride, while its powerful engine options deliver plenty of performance. Whether you're cruising down the highway or tackling tough terrain, the Ram 1500 Sport is up to the task. Let's take a closer look at what it's like to drive this truck:

• Ride Quality: One of the standout features of the 2017 Ram 1500 Sport is its ride quality. The truck's coil-spring rear suspension provides a smoother and more comfortable ride compared to the leaf-spring suspensions found in some other trucks. This makes the Ram 1500 Sport a great choice for long drives and everyday commuting. The suspension also does a good job of absorbing bumps and potholes, providing a more refined driving experience.
• Handling: The 2017 Ram 1500 Sport handles surprisingly well for a full-size truck. The steering is responsive and precise, providing good feedback to the driver. The truck's suspension is well-tuned, minimizing body roll and providing good stability in corners. Available options include a sport-tuned suspension, which further improves the truck's handling and performance. With its combination of responsive steering and well-tuned suspension, the Ram 1500 Sport is a joy to drive on twisty roads.
• Towing and Hauling: The 2017 Ram 1500 Sport is a capable tow vehicle, thanks to its powerful engine options and robust construction. The 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine provides plenty of power for towing heavy loads, while the truck's frame and suspension are designed to handle the stress of towing. Available options include a trailer brake controller and a tow package, which further enhance the truck's towing capabilities. With its impressive towing capacity and available towing features, the Ram 1500 Sport is well-equipped to handle all your towing needs.
• Off-Road Capability: While the Sport trim is primarily designed for on-road performance, the 2017 Ram 1500 Sport is still capable off-road. The truck's four-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in slippery conditions, while its high ground clearance allows it to tackle rough terrain. Available options include skid plates and off-road tires, which further enhance the truck's off-road capabilities. With its combination of four-wheel drive and off-road features, the Ram 1500 Sport is ready for adventure.

The driving experience of the 2017 Ram 1500 Sport is a blend of comfort, performance, and capability, making it a great choice for those who want a truck that can do it all. Whether you're using it for work or play, the Ram 1500 Sport is sure to impress.

Final Verdict

The 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 Sport is a compelling option in the full-size truck market, offering a blend of style, performance, and practicality. Its sporty design, powerful engine options, and comfortable interior make it a standout choice for those who want a truck that looks as good as it performs. Whether you're using it for work or play, the Ram 1500 Sport is sure to impress. If you're in the market for a new truck, the 2017 Ram 1500 Sport is definitely worth considering.

So, what do you think, guys? Is the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 Sport the right truck for you? With its combination of performance, style, and features, it's hard to go wrong!