2006 or 2007

[JHatfield]

I'm looking to tap the collective experience here on whether I should pull the trigger on a 2006 3500 Megacab, or wait and order a 2007.



I've searched the forum and found the lengthy discussions around the new EPA standards and the Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel that will go into effect for the next MY. Do you believe this is reason enough to go with a 2006?



I have found a 2006 that is exactly what I want, but I'm not clear on what other changes might be in store for 2007 that I would miss if I go with this 2006.



Are there any substantial options that will be added for the 2007 MY?



Forgive these basic questions, but I'm a recovering F250 owner and don't have much experience with Dodge... other than being sold on it for my next truck!



Thanks in Advance.



JH

 

[ECasey]

Here is some info I found on another forum... .



2007 Dodge RAM features/options:



Models:



ST

SLT

TR X4 Off-Road

Sport

Power Wagon

Laramie



Regular Cab

Quad Cab

Mega Cab





Engines:



3. 7L Magnum V6 (215 @ 5,200 235 @ 4,000)

4. 7L Magnum V8 (235 @ 4,400 300 @ 3,500)

4. 7L FFV Magnum V8 (235 @ 4,400 300 @ 3,500)

5. 7L HEMI V8 (345 @ 5,400 375 @ 4,200)

6. 7L I-6 Cummins Turbo Diesel (325 @ 2,900 610 @ 1,600)





Transmissions:



4-speed auto

5-speed auto

6-speed auto (68RE with ERS, will replace 4-speed auto later in model year)

6-speed manual





Transfer Cases:



- Manual (NA on Mega Cab or 1500 Regular and Quad Cab; standard on 2500/3500 4x4)

- Electric shift (standard on 1500 Regular and Quad Cab 4x4)

- Electric shift (standard on all Mega Cab and 2500/3500 Regular and Quad Cab Sport and Laramie models)

- On Demand (optional on 1500 4x4 only excluding Mega Cab)





New features/options:



- 1500 Laramie models come standard with 5. 7L HEMI V8 engine



- Active turn signals activate the signal with a tap. Requires less effort during lane changes (Standard on all models)



- Electronic Stability Program includes Hill Assist (Standard on 1500 Laramie, ABS is included on other 1500 Regular and Quad Cab).



- SXT Value Group includes steel chrome-clad wheels, power locks, power windows, power mirrors, cloth 40/20/40 bench seat, carpet with floor mats, and speed control



- Power accessory delay (Standard on all models)



- Snow Chief Plow Package (Optional for 2500 gas engine models). Includes unique box side reflective decal, 160-amp alternator, transfer case skid plate, 750-amp battery, antispin rear axle, cab clearance lamps, LT245/70R17E tires, SLT/Sport receives vinyl flooring standard.



- TIP Start prevents double starts and preserves battery and starter life



- Remote Start System (Optional on models with V8 engine and automatic transmission combinations)



- YES Essentials® easy-clean, stain- and odor-resistant seat fabric is included on specific cloth seats



- Diesel exhaust brake for 6. 7L Cummins Turbo Diesel will be a factory-installed option that can assist in deceleration of the truck.



- Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) on instrument panel packages with Cummins® Tubo Diesel





Exterior colors:



Bright Silver Metallic

Bright White

Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl

Electric Blue Pearl

Flame Red

Inferno Red Crystal Pearl

Light Khaki Metallic

Mineral Gray Metallic

Patriot Blue Pearl



Interior:



Khaki

Slate Gray



Hope this helps.

 

[JHatfield]

That helps a lot! Thanks, EC!

 

[mwhals]

I would go for the 2006. First, you get it sooner. Second, with the larger engine and the extra emissions equipment, I can bet that the 2007 will be less fuel efficient than the 2006 model. Third, the 2006 model can use a wider range of fuels if higher sulfur fuel ever comes back (doubtful).



Mark H

 

[Grizzly]

I would go for the 2006. First, you get it sooner. Second, with the larger engine and the extra emissions equipment, I can bet that the 2007 will be less fuel efficient than the 2006 model. Third, the 2006 model can use a wider range of fuels if higher sulfur fuel ever comes back (doubtful).



Mark H

I'd go with the 06. No telling what to expect from the 07.

 

[lawdog]

From what I have been hearing, The 6. 7 engine is a Jan 1st 2007 deal as a 2007. 5 model. . up until then the 5. 9 will be the engine... The 6 sped auto is a 68RFE Electronic controled auto..... ! engineer I stopped on the road last year said the there is "30" new components to make emmissions standards... ... "I" am planning a early 2007... Alaso heard possible new styling with regards to lights, maybe afterburner style tail lights. . Im guessing like dakota???



I was not told what to buy, but was told that if that engineer was buying one he would buy a 5. 9. . The new one NO, NONE, NOTHING as far as mods, 6 sensors in exhaust and 2 in intake, even aftermarket air filter could set codes... Of course I heard this when the Mega's first hit the streets too as I pulled him over to check out the truck.....

 

[ECasey]

Hey Guys,



Just a quick question. Are dealers done receiving 2006 Trucks? Are they now waiting for the 2007's to arrive?



Thanks!

 

[mlewis73]

I would suggest an '06. You can't order an '06 any more from what I understand.



My logic for you is that the '06 purchase price will be cheaper than the '07 due to incentives, and that the '06 is proven technology whereas the '07 is not. Of course, there is a chance the 5. 9 will find its way into the '07 trucks and the mid '07s will be released as an '08 model with the new 6. 7L diesel.



I'd get the '06 and be happier with the smaller engine that won't be saddled with the emissions issues (and likely other issues associated with them. )

 

[Andersonville]

PERSONALLY, I would not buy the first year/edition/model of ANYTHING. Just my . 02.

ALSO There are plenty of '06 models out there,used and new. Used with less than 50K on them are plentiful!

 

[CMusgrove]

What I have read and what I have seen on one of the local lots is that there are plenty of 06 Mega Cab CTD SLTs available. Not a single Laramie was on the lot I looked at. If you are looking at the Laramie 3500 your choices for an 06 may be a little limited. I know one thing - the Mega Cab is one whale of a grandkid hauler.

 

[JHatfield]

Thanks guys for all of the input!

 

[RankRam]

Get the 06!! Oo.

 

[KParsons]

new 06

hi ,first month with my truck is very good. getting a pac brake is all it needs. go for the 06,

 

[2Gen3Gen]

I would go for the 07. Then you will get the latest in whatever... . I know that the mileage requirements on most cars and trucks are higher starting in 07. . Just my thought

 

[Cummins Thunder]

The new one NO, NONE, NOTHING as far as mods, 6 sensors in exhaust and 2 in intake, even aftermarket air filter could set codes... Of course I heard this when the Mega's first hit the streets too as I pulled him over to check out the truck.....

People said the same thing about my over valver



CJ

 

[Cattletrkr]

I want the 6 spd auto. I want a bigger pickup. Therefore I have to wait for the '07's.

 

[sonorakitch]

My understanding is that the new motor won't be required until January 1, 2007. Therefore, common understanding is that the 5. 9L will be available through December, 2006. BUT... . DaimlerChrysler could very well introduce the new engine early, and the 2006 late year has the rebate incentives.



My opinion is that the new 6. 6L will be farther away from what we all want: economy, fewer parts, and less maintenence. Don't forgot about that particulate filter!!!



~Chris