AUBURN HILLS, MI – Chrysler's Ram division posted an update on its 2012-MY trucks, from the 1500 to the 5500. First, the changes include increases in engine performance and an available six-speed automatic transmission with an updated torque converter on its lineup. The 5.7L Hemi gets more horsepower, at 383, and torque, at 400 lb. ft. The 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel gets 350 horsepower and 800 lb. ft. of torque.

Ram also said the Cummins Turbo Diesel-equipped Ram pickup meets 2012 EPA compliance rules without the need for a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF).

The 2012 Ram 1500 is offered in Regular Cab, Quad Cab and Crew Cab models, with three box lengths: 8-foot (Regular Cab), 6-foot-4-inches (Regular Cab and Quad Cab), and 5-foot-7-inches (Ram 1500 Crew Cab). Ram is offering eleven trim levels: Tradesman, Express, Outdoorsman, ST, SLT, Sport, Sport R/T, Lone Star, Big Horn, Laramie and Laramie Longhorn.

For its HD lineup, the Ram Power Wagon is back for 2012. The Ram Power Wagon comes with electric-locking front and rear differentials, an electronic disconnecting sway bar, Bilstein shocks, 33-inch BFGoodrich off-road tires, underbody skid plate protection, a 4.56 axle ratio for hill climbing, and a custom-built Warn 12,000-lb. winch hidden behind the front bumper.

The 2012 Ram Heavy Duty will be available in eight trim levels – ST, SLT, Outdoorsman, Lone Star, Big Horn, Power Wagon, Laramie, and Laramie Longhorn in the third quarter of 2011.

Ram’s 2012-MY trucks will also offer the following features:

• Coil spring rear suspension on Ram 1500

• Available RamBox lockable and lighted bedside storage

• In-floor storage on all Ram crew cabs

• Available large cab model, the Ram HD Mega Cab

• Standard six-speed manual transmission on all diesel models

• 3,600-lb. towing for Class 1 cargo vans