Forget About Inexpensive Full-Size Trucks | Carscoops

      If you're in search of an affordable Ram, you'll have to wait for their upcoming mid-size truck.

      

      June 5, 2025 at 10:30

      

      by Michael Gauthier

      

      Ram's CEO has indicated that the era of full-size trucks being priced under $40,000 has ended.

      The brand will return to sub-$40,000 pricing with the debut of its Dakota successor.

      Ram has more than 25 product announcements scheduled through the end of 2026.

      Due to tariffs and inflation, vehicle prices have surged in recent years. The average transaction price of a new vehicle reached $48,699 in April, rising from $36,843 in April 2019. In total, that's an increase of $11,856 over six years.

      

      More: Hemi V8 Finally Returns To The 2026 Ram 1500

      Though there are still a few affordable new vehicles available, like the Chevrolet Trax and Nissan Kicks, Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis recently announced that full-size trucks at affordable prices are a thing of the past. During a media event in Michigan, he stated that we shouldn't expect prices to drop below $40,000.

      The starting price for the 2025 Ram 1500 is $40,275, which seems like a relative deal. However, this truck started at $31,695 in 2019, and the destination fee was also lower then. While that's a hefty increase over six years, Kuniskis is somewhat incorrect, as you can purchase a 2025 Ram 1500 Tradesman for as low as $38,340 due to a $1,000 incentive and employee pricing available for everyone.

      Despite this point, Kuniskis clearly indicated that affordable full-size trucks are not returning. On a positive note, he mentioned that their forthcoming mid-size pickup would allow them to offer sub-$40,000 pricing again. Although he did not specify when this model would be released, he emphasized its necessity by stating, "We have to have a mid-size truck; we’re a truck brand."

      

      Michael Gauthier

      The absence of a mid-size option makes Ram stand out as all competitors, including Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, Nissan, and Toyota, have one. Even Jeep, a sister brand, offers the Gladiator, which has a starting price of $38,100. Although this is higher than its competitors, it includes features like a removable roof and standard four-wheel drive.

      Mid-Size Truck on the Horizon?

      The exact timing of the new Ram mid-size truck remains uncertain, but the company has over 25 product announcements planned by the end of 2026. Therefore, it’s likely we might see the truck late next year.

      No matter the timing or venue of its debut, we're eager to see how it compares to competitors such as the $31,900 Chevrolet Colorado and the $33,330 Ford Ranger. If Ram can strike the right balance between pricing and specifications, it could finally provide the brand with the competitive model it has been lacking.

      

      Michael Gauthier