2016 RAM trucks receive Popular Mechanics award

RAM trucks — which have grown dramatically in popularity in recent years — has racked up another award. This time the truck recognition comes from Popular Mechanics magazine, which annually recognizes automotive excellence.

The process for selecting the award winners is a stringent one. The editors drive everything, of course. But, they also visit the factories where the vehicles are built, interview engineers and other relevent people that, as the Popular Mechanics editors say,”that remind us why we love the automobile.”

They go on to say that factors in the decision included the ZF-designed eight-speed transmission, “a device so manifestly excellent that Rolls-Royce and Range Rover put the same in their cars, too.  That transmission an be bolted to a satisfying 305-hp V6, a beastly HEMI V8 or a 3.0L diesel, the only small diesel you can get in a full-size truck.

The other nine vehicles which received Popular Mechanics awards in other categories are:

• Ford Escape – Car of the Year
• Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S – Fun to Drive
• Camero ZL1 — Performance
• Ram 1500 – Hauling
• SRT Viper – Design
• Nissan Pathfinder – Versatility
• Tesla Model S – Technical Innovation
• Hyundai Elantra GT – Value
• Prius C – Fuel Efficiency