Detroit show: Dodge Ram

DODGE has reworked its Ram pick-up truck in the US, but Australians are unlikely to see it in the metal any time soon.

Despite attempts by Chrysler Australia to have the vehicle made available locally, the new-look model unveiled at the North American International Auto Show last week will only be built in left-hand drive.

Designed to challenge Ford’s all-new F-150, the new Ram features a bold new front-end and a much-improved interior aimed at giving the vehicle a much more premium feel. It will go on sale around this September in the US.

Most new Ram models will also run a coil-spring rear suspension, while a crew-cab will also be introduced to the range.

A revised 5.7-litre V8 improves performance and reduces fuel consumption, while a diesel engine will be introduced next year.

Dodge also announced in Detroit that a hybrid petrol-electric version of the Ram will join the range in 2010.