...doubts that many will jump on this option, but it is a clever safety feature. The step has a tendency to wiggle out when you open the tailgate. It needs a keeper.

All vehicles get well over the 10,000-lb threshold for towing, but only Ford comes with a standard, 12,500-lb hitch. Ford boosts trailering capacity to 24,500 lb by adding the F-450 to its Super Duty lineup this year. Base 3/4-ton models generally max out at about 13,000 lb. Beyond that, you need to move up to a 1-ton and add special gear, such as a gooseneck hitch and dual rear wheels.

All have tow-haul modes to help smooth shifting under load. For extra stopping power, the Ram’s diesel has an integrated exhaust brake. Chevy and Ford offer integrated tow brake controllers as options. All have transmissions that allow the driver to select gears manually. ENR found the six-speed automatic in the Ram, a pricey, $1,575 item, to be the most responsive.

ENR also liked Dodge’s take on the extendable side mirror. Rather than telescoping out, Ram’s mirrors flip up and out. It is faster and feels less cheap.

If Chevy’s cabin is an easy chair, then Ford’s is an industrial cockpit. Dodge’s is just simple and rugged, the most truck-like of the three. ENR noticed a quality problem outside, on Dodge’s out-of-alignment engine compartment hood.

All trucks display lots of useful, run-time information. But ENR would like to see these functions integrated into the Ram’s dash. Instead, they are relegated to a headliner display that soaked up glare and took our eyes off the road. All have plenty of storage space, but Chevy gets extra credit for a lockable laptop bin and under-seat power outlet.

The Big Three are still on top of their game when it comes to diesels. Foreign brands, such as Toyota, may want a piece of this action, but their quality can’t slip here. After they perfect their 1/2-ton trucks, they could try to give Detroit a serious run for its heavy-duty money. Until then, Motown makes a splash.

Tudor Van Hampton / ENR
Chrysler LLC
Tudor Van Hampton / ENR	Tudor Van Hampton / ENR
Chrysler LLC
Ram’s engine meets 2010 emissions, and the Mega Cab (2nd top) is palacial. Build quality (right) needs work.