Ram Black Express goes Darth Vader

Ram introduced the Ram Black Express on Thursday. The locomotive-sounding name denotes the black on black styling, Hemi engine and a low starting price of $28,050.

The Black Express gets an all-black exterior, including the hexagon grille, fascias, bumpers and wheels. All the badging on the side of the body has been removed while the front and rear badges are redone in black. It also gets bi-functional halogen projector lamps with black bezels, amber LEDs for parking and turning, fog lights and black-finished taillights.

The 5.7-liter Hemi powers either two or four wheels. Output is rated at 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. Chrysler says the Ram 1500 Express is “squarely aimed at first-time buyers and owners who are seeking performance with style.” We know that sounds like PR speak, but we actually agree: This is a good-looking truck. A six-speed automatic is standard.

Inside, split-bench seats are in black and diesel gray with either carpeting or vinyl floor covering. Other features include a 5-inch touchscreen, MP3 adapter and air conditioning.

The Ram Black Express hits dealerships this month.

By Jake Lingeman