The heavy-duty Rams have been with us for a few years now. Last redesigned for 2003, they aren't nearly as new as the latest from Ford and General Motors but benefit from some recent freshening.

New for 2007: The Ram Heavy Duty benefits from a new diesel engine and automatic transmission plus some minor refinements.

The Ram Mega Cab was launched as a 2006 model. Mega Cab is built on the Heavy Duty chassis and comes fitted with the Hemi engine. The extra-large Mega cab was created by re-proportioning the relationship between cab and bed on a long wheelbase truck, adding 20 inches to the cab and shortening the bed to 6 feet, three inches.

The result is acres of cab space, with six seats and plenty of head, shoulder, leg and hip room. The back seats are roomy and comfortable with reclining seatbacks, separate rear heating and air conditioning outlets, reading lights and a center armrest with cup holders, and available DVD entertainment. And there's space behind the back seats for cargo. Folding down the back seats reveals a huge cargo area (72.2 cubic feet) with a flat load floor. The rear doors open big and wide, making it easy to load stuff inside. Covered bins are provided back there for storing gear and smaller items, and hooks are provided for hanging things.

The Mega Cab Ram rides and drives like a heavy duty pickup, regardless of 1500, 2500, or 3500 rating. It doesn't make sense to buy one unless you're towing and hauling heavy loads.

We found the new Cummins turbo diesel quiet, powerful and responsive. It provides engine braking down long highway grades, thereby leaving the brakes cool, fade-free, and ready for stopping. The diesel's power and fuel economy make it an excellent choice for owners who tow heavy trailers long distances.

The Ram HD is equally at home serving solo contractors, landscape crews or families with heavy toys, and everyone in between. Despite a reputation for being the most truck-like, the heavy-duty Rams are civilized and make trucking enjoyable.