Choosing between a Dodge Ram Crew Cab and a Quad Cab can feel overwhelming. Both offer extended seating beyond the standard access cab, but subtle yet significant differences exist in passenger space, cargo capacity, and overall practicality. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which configuration best suits your needs.
What's the Difference Between a Crew Cab and a Quad Cab?
The core difference lies in rear passenger space and resulting cargo area. The Quad Cab offers slightly more rear passenger room than an Access Cab (the standard two-door configuration), but the rear doors are smaller, and legroom is often cramped for adults on longer journeys. The Crew Cab, on the other hand, boasts significantly larger rear doors and substantially more rear passenger space, often comparable to the front seats in comfort. This increased passenger comfort comes at a cost, however; the Crew Cab sacrifices some cargo bed space.
Crew Cab vs. Quad Cab: Passenger Space
This is the most significant differentiator. The Crew Cab's larger rear doors and extended cab space provide ample room for adults, making it ideal for families or those frequently carrying passengers in the back. The Quad Cab, while offering more room than an Access Cab, usually feels more suited to children or shorter trips with adults in the back. Consider how often you'll have passengers in the back and how long those journeys are likely to be.
How much bigger is the Crew Cab's backseat?
The precise difference varies by model year, but generally, the Crew Cab offers several additional inches of legroom and shoulder room compared to the Quad Cab. You'll often find that adults can comfortably sit in the rear of a Crew Cab for extended periods, whereas the Quad Cab might feel cramped for all but shorter journeys.
Crew Cab vs. Quad Cab: Cargo Bed Space
The increased passenger space in the Crew Cab comes at the expense of cargo bed length. The Quad Cab maintains a longer cargo bed than the Crew Cab, making it a better choice for those regularly hauling larger items or towing heavier loads where maximum bed space is crucial. If you frequently transport materials, tools, or equipment, the longer bed of the Quad Cab may be a significant advantage.
What's the typical cargo bed difference?
Expect to see a difference of anywhere from 12-18 inches in bed length between a Quad Cab and a Crew Cab Ram, depending on the specific model year and truck bed length options. This seemingly small difference can significantly impact carrying capacity, especially for longer items.
Crew Cab vs. Quad Cab: Price
Generally, the Crew Cab commands a slightly higher price than the Quad Cab due to the added features and manufacturing costs associated with the larger rear passenger compartment. This price difference is often modest compared to the overall vehicle cost, but it's a factor to consider within your budget.
Which Cab Is Right For Me?
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities.
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Choose a Crew Cab if:
- You frequently carry passengers in the back seat.
- Passenger comfort is a top priority.
- You need ample rear door access.
- You're okay with a slightly shorter cargo bed.
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Choose a Quad Cab if:
- You prioritize maximum cargo bed space.
- You rarely carry passengers in the back seat or only for short trips.
- Budget is a primary concern (though the difference is often minimal).
By carefully considering your needs regarding passenger space and cargo capacity, you can confidently choose between the Dodge Ram Crew Cab and Quad Cab, ensuring you select the perfect truck for your lifestyle.
