James Ram - Does the 2026 Ram 1500’s coil-spring suspension make it ride smoother than the Silverado 1500 around Huntley, IL?
Among the most common questions we hear is whether the 2026 Ram 1500’s rear coil-spring suspension delivers a smoother ride than the Chevrolet Silverado 1500’s leaf-spring setup, especially on the patchy, four-season pavement around Huntley, IL. The short answer is yes—Ram’s five-link, coil-spring rear architecture is designed to control axle movement more precisely, reduce head toss over sharp impacts, and maintain consistent tire contact over broken surfaces. That composure can be felt at 25 mph over residential speed humps and at 70 mph across freeway expansion joints. It also pays dividends while towing, where unwanted fore-aft motion—often called porpoising—is kept in check. When equipped, Four-Corner Air Suspension further broadens this advantage by self-leveling with payload, subtly firming or relaxing spring rates, and even lowering for easier ingress at the end of a long day.
By contrast, Silverado’s leaf-spring rear setup is durable and work-proven, and the truck’s chassis tuning has steadily improved. Off-road derivatives like ZR2 add Multimatic DSSV™ dampers for remarkable control in sustained, high-frequency terrain. Yet in the daily rhythm of school runs, grocery stops, and weekend drives, Ram’s underpinnings provide a relaxed, confident feel that keeps drivers fresher and passengers happier. That difference is compounded by interior refinement—Ram’s quiet cabin, available 50+ combined digital display inches, and a Front Passenger Interactive Display that allows co-pilots to handle navigation or entertainment. When you pair a calmer chassis with clearer information and less cabin noise, the result is a truck that feels more premium and less tiring in real life.
- Ride architecture: Ram’s rear five-link coils promote vertical wheel control and reduce harshness; Silverado’s leafs emphasize load robustness.
- Optional air suspension: Ram’s available Four-Corner Air Suspension can level payload, smooth gravel chatter, and lower the truck for entry.
- Towing stability: Coil-spring geometry resists porpoising; Trailer Reverse Steering Control and tow-focused camera views increase confidence.
- Cabin calm: Noise management and an available Digital Rearview Mirror help maintain situational awareness without added stress.
- Front passenger tech: Ram’s available passenger-side display offloads navigation and apps, keeping the driver’s primary screen uncluttered.
Drivers weighing these factors often ask about long-term ownership. In our experience, Ram’s combination of ride quality and tech features is what people appreciate most at the 20,000-mile mark. It is easy to get used to a smoother truck—so much so that you notice the difference any time you hop into a leaf-spring pickup. If you frequently commute on pockmarked arterials, run errands with family aboard, or split duties between jobsite and out-of-town weekends, the coil-spring foundation provides a noticeable advantage day after day.
For those who tow, both trucks are legitimately capable when properly equipped. Silverado’s trailering hardware and up to 14 available camera views are strong. Ram matches with a robust max payload, serious available horsepower and torque, and the Most Available Towing Technology Features Ever Offered on Ram 1500. Features like Trailer Reverse Steering Control simplify tricky maneuvers, while the available Surround View Camera and the Digital Rearview Mirror with Tow Mode expand awareness. Across varied road surfaces and crosswinds, Ram’s suspension poise helps the driver stay relaxed and in command.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Will Ram’s coil-spring suspension still handle heavy loads?
Yes, when properly equipped. The five-link design is engineered for stability under payload, and available Four-Corner Air Suspension can self-level to maintain a confident stance and consistent handling characteristics.
Can Silverado match Ram’s ride comfort with options?
Silverado’s chassis tuning is strong, and certain off-road trims add advanced dampers for control on rough trails. For everyday smoothness on mixed pavement, Ram’s coil-spring foundation typically provides a more settled, less bouncy feel.
James Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is ready to help you compare these strengths first-hand, serving Huntley, Pingree Grove, and Genoa with guided test routes that showcase exactly where the coil-spring advantage shows up. Bring your driving questions, your towing needs, and your everyday routes—we will match configurations and features to the way you live, so your next truck feels right from day one.