Car Test Drive Checklist: How To Choose The Best Vehicle For You

January 21, 2022 · 3 min read

The new year is here – and there’s never been a better time to refresh your ride! Check out one of our hottest models and drive all new in 2022! Here at Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, our team is committed to helping you find the perfect vehicle. We’ll discuss your list of “must-haves,” while keeping your budget and lifestyle in mind.

To help you get started, we’ve listed a few things to consider when buying a car. Take a look, then come see us today!

First Impression: Examine the Exterior

Let’s face it: first impressions make a major impact. When you’re shopping for a new vehicle, its exterior condition can make or break the deal. A car you loved online might not appear quite as desirable in person, so it’s crucial to ask yourself each of the following questions:

Do I like the exterior design?
How do I feel about the color?
Does the size seem appropriate for my family’s needs? (consider space for cargo and crew)
Is there any body damage? (scratches, dents, rust, etc.)
Does the windshield have any cracks or nicks?
Are the tires in good condition? Is there uneven/excessive tread wear?
Do the turn signals, brake lights, headlights, and interior lights work?

Interior: Comfort, Space, and Features

Once the vehicle’s exterior has passed the test, it's time to take a close look inside. Consider the following:

Can I get in and out of the vehicle easily? Can my family do the same?
Do I feel comfortable behind the wheel? How is the visibility?
Do I like the interior design/dashboard?
Do the seat belts work properly?
Is there enough room for my family, including car seats if applicable?
Will I be able to easily transport necessary cargo – like sporting gear, luggage or work equipment?
Do the rear seats fold down to accommodate larger items?

Time For The Test Drive

Here at Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, we highly recommend test driving any vehicle you are considering. Moreover, we recommend driving your normal commute, or a similar route, to truly get a feel for how the car handles. By driving on the highway, as well as in stop-and-go traffic, you’ll feel how the vehicle drives at different speeds – something you won’t learn by simply taking a few laps around the parking lot.

While test driving the car, ask the following:

Ignition: Did the car start smoothly? How does the engine sound? Do I hear any concerning noises while shifting gears? Are any warning lights on?
Acceleration and handling: Does the car speed up and shift smoothly? Does it feel responsive? Does the steering wheel shake or vibrate at all?
Braking: Does the car respond immediately when braking? Do I notice any noises or squeaking?
Infotainment and connectivity: Are infotainment controls easy to understand? Does the vehicle offer Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity? Does it pair with my mobile device?
Comfort: Do the air conditioning and heat work properly?
Backup camera: Does this vehicle have one? How is the view? Does it have sensors or lines to indicate distance?
Navigation: Is the map detailed enough to meet my needs? Is it simple to enter a destination?
Safety features: Are safety and driver assist features available, like blind spot warning, lane departure warning and automatic braking?

Schedule A Test Drive In Manning Today!

Looking for a reliable new vehicle to start 2022 in style? Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM is your destination for the year’s most popular new cars, trucks and SUVs! Our massive inventory also includes a variety of used and certified pre-owned vehicles – thoroughly inspected and complete with a vehicle history report.

Conveniently located near Sumter, we are proud to be locals’ trusted car dealership in Manning, South Carolina! We welcome customers from Sumter County and beyond, offering a hassle-free buying experience that’s second to none. Come see us today!

Sep 25, 2026

2027 Ram 1500 Rumble Bee Trim Levels Explained

Let’s make some noise for the 2027 Ram 1500 Rumble Bee! This extraordinary performance-focused pickup truck is ready to flex its American muscles for drivers who want extra excitement from their truck. Featuring four strong versions to choose from, the 2027 Rumble Bee lineup boasts incredible power and performance without neglecting essential utility that every Ram 1500 truck for sale is known for. Whether you opt for the Rumble Bee, Rumble Bee 392, Rumble Bee 392 Track Pack, or Rumble Bee SRT, you’re in for a load of fun — on the street or the track. If you’re ready to try out this sporty street truck in Florence, learn more about the 2027 Ram 1500 Rumble Bee lineup below! 2027 Ram Rumble Bee: Trims and Performance Specs From the powerful Rumble Bee to the daring Rumble Bee SRT, the 2027 Ram Rumble Bee lineup offers a range of options for drivers brave enough to get behind the wheel. Find out which version suits you best! 2027 Ram 1500 Rumble Bee This may be the base trim level, but this Rumble Bee is far from humble. This version is equipped with a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine, coming in strong with 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, and a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. When it comes to acceleration, the Rumble Bee can go from zero to 60 miles per hour in 6.1 seconds, reaching the quarter mile in 14.6 seconds. You can customize performance based on your needs, thanks to five drive modes: auto, sport, snow, tow, and custom. And if you need to tow, the Rumble Bee can manage up to 8,890 pounds of towing capacity and up to 1,160 pounds of payload capacity, when properly equipped, offering the utility you need, when you need it. As with the following versions, the Rumble Bee comes with full-time active four-wheel drive and includes a “RWD” button. 2027 Ram 1500 Rumble Bee 392 Need extra power? The Rumble Bee 392 is next in line, equipped with a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine that delivers 470 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque. This engine is also matched with the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. With this version, you can take off from zero and reach 60 miles per hour in 5.2 seconds, hitting the quarter mile in 13.2 seconds. 2027 Ram 1500 Rumble Bee 392 Track Pack Equipped with the same 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine as the Rumble Bee 392, the Rumble Bee 392 Track Pack delivers the same horsepower and torque numbers, but adds an electronic spool differential. This feature can electronically lock the axle in order to split the torque evenly between the rear tires. Simply activate this feature with the push of a button and get ready for more fun on the track! You’ll also have two extra drive modes to choose from: track and valet. You can enjoy better handling while in track mode, thanks to an adjustable suspension that can lower the truck by 1.5 inches. And when it’s time for blast off, launch control is ready for you. 2027 Ram 1500 Rumble Bee SRT Now for the Fastest Production Truck Ever.* The 2027 Ram 1500 Rumble Bee SRT takes performance to the next level with the most powerful V8 engine ever offered in a production pickup truck: the 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V-8 engine. The 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 engine produces a jaw-dropping 777 horsepower and 680 pound-feet of torque. The Rumble Bee SRT can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 3.4 seconds and take the quarter mile in 11.6 seconds at 116 miles per hour, boasting a targeted top speed of 170 miles per hour. Like the Track Pack, the SRT also offers auto, sport, track, snow, tow, custom, and valet drive modes as well as a launch control button and an electronic spool button. Standing on 325/40R22 all-season tires on 22-by-12-inch wheels, the 2027 Ram 1500 Rumble Bee SRT is ready to take on the track or the road ahead. Bold Style for Every Mile With a shortened wheelbase and a Quad Cab and short bed pairing, this truck features bold styling worthy of its impressive power and capability. The 2027 Ram 1500 Rumble Bee’s wide, low stance is complemented by a variety of design details. If you opt for the Rumble Bee or Rumble Bee 392, you’ll get features like: An aggressive front grille Premium front and rear LED lighting Widebody fenders Body-color fender flares and bumpers 22-inch by 10-inch wheels with 285/45R22 all-season tires You can also take your pick from statement-making paint color options such as Detonator Yellow, Molten Red, and Ceramic Gray. For the Rumble Bee 392 Track Pack and Rumble Bee SRT, design details that add even more appeal include a deep chin splitter, an aggressive rear spoiler, and largest-in-class** Brembo brakes. Both models are outfitted with all-new 22-by-12-inch wheels. Each truck is marked with a fierce Rumble Bee character logo. If you opt for the entry-level Rumble Bee, you’ll get the head of the angry bee in Satin Black and Dark Neutral Metallic. Its body is a HEMI V-8 engine with its stinger out. You’ll see the same bee design on the Rumble Bee 392 and Rumble Bee 392 Track Pack models — only this time, the stinger comes in Satin Black and the body comes in Prowler Yellow. On the SRT, you’ll see a more dramatic bee design in Satin Black and Spitfire Orange stripes, complete with swept-back wings. No matter which Rumble Bee truck version you choose, you’ll be turning heads wherever you go. When Will the 2027 Ram 1500 Rumble Bee Be Available? According to Ram, the Rumble Bee with the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine will be available in late 2026. The Rumble Bee 392, Rumble Bee 392 Track Pack, and Rumble Bee SRT models will be available in the first half of 2027. Pricing starts at $59,995. If you’re interested in upgrading to one of these powerful pickup trucks, contact our team to learn more! Your Ram dealer in Manning is here to help. Shop New and Used Ram Trucks for Sale at Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram The 2027 Ram 1500 Rumble Bee redefines truck performance, allowing drivers to enjoy thrilling power on the track or road, while still remaining a practical option for everyday needs. Are you ready to experience Ram truck performance? Whether that’s the 2027 Ram 1500 Rumble Bee or a standard Ram 1500 model, you can count on our team to help you upgrade to a new Ram truck for sale or pre-owned truck you want. While your Ram truck dealer near Sumter and Charleston doesn’t have any Rumble Bee models available yet, we’ll be happy to answer your questions about this truck or help you place a custom order. Whether you’re looking for a new or used truck, feel free to contact us or stop by Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram for a test drive! Disclaimers: *Based on top speed ratings and the latest available competitive information. Manufacturer's computer simulated top speed data used for Ram 1500 Rumble Bee SRT® when equipped with factory performance tires. **Class Based on FCA US LLC Large Light Duty Pickups and the latest available competitive information. Excludes BEVs and other FCA vehicles.

Sep 23, 2026

2026 Jeep Cherokee: What Powers This New Hybrid SUV?

The 2026 Cherokee kicks off its 6th generation with hybrid power and Jeep’s trademark capability. You’ll immediately notice the reimagined design: bolder, boxier, and unmistakably Jeep. The new Cherokee is longer, taller, and wider than previous models, yet it still carries signature design DNA like squared-off headlights and the iconic seven-slot grille. But the feature everyone's talking about is under the hood: an all-new turbo-hybrid powertrain delivering an impressive 500+ miles of total range. With legendary 4x4 capability, hybrid efficiency, and more interior room than ever, the 2026 Cherokee is raising the bar in the mid-size SUV segment. Our team at Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram has put together everything you need to know about the 2026 Jeep Cherokee's hybrid powertrain so you can decide whether the new Cherokee deserves a spot in your garage. 2026 Jeep Cherokee Hybrid Specs and Range This new Jeep is a full hybrid (HEV), not a plug-in. It uses regenerative braking to keep its 1.03 kWh battery charged, meaning you get all the benefits of electrification without ever worrying about finding a charging station or plugging your Jeep in overnight. Here’s a quick rundown of the specs: Hybrid Power: A 1.6L four-cylinder turbo engine is paired with two electric motors. Horsepower: 210 horsepower Torque: 230 lb-ft Transmission: Electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) Drivetrain: Standard all-wheel drive (AWD). Front-wheel drive (FWD) is not available. Fuel Economy: EPA-estimated 39 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 37 mpg combined. Range: Over 500 miles on a single tank, thanks to a 13.7-gallon fuel tank. Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 pounds. Find Your New Jeep Cherokee at Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram! Shopping for a hybrid SUV near Florence? Check out the all-new 2026 Jeep Cherokee, now for sale at our Jeep dealership in Manning! Ready for everything from your Monday morning commute to weekend road trips, the Cherokee delivers the capability Jeep is known for, now with serious savings at the pump. And if the Cherokee isn't quite the right fit, our full lineup of Jeep SUVs for sale has you covered, from the adventure-ready Wrangler to the luxurious Wagoneer. Stop by Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Sumter and Lake City, SC, to test-drive the hottest new Jeep SUVs on the lot!

Sep 02, 2026

2026 RAM 2500 Rebel: Built for Work and Off-Road Adventures

From the jobsite to the trails, the 2026 RAM 2500 Rebel is up for anything. This heavy-duty pickup pairs serious towing and hauling capability with genuine off-road capability, giving you the muscle to power through whatever the week—or weekend— throws at you. The Rebel is the sweet spot in the RAM heavy-duty lineup: it's more capable off-road than a standard 2500, but more work-ready than the trail-focused Power Wagon. It's the truck for drivers who need it all. If you're shopping for a heavy-duty truck near Columbia, the 2026 RAM 2500 Rebel deserves a spot at the top of your list. Keep reading to see what makes it stand out, then stop by Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Manning to see one in person. Rugged Design and Off-Road Equipment The 2026 RAM 2500 Rebel is engineered for anything, and it looks the part. Every design element matches its serious off-pavement capability, while protective body and underbody equipment back up the look. Depending on configuration, the Rebel can be equipped with: 34-inch all-terrain tires with 20-inch Black Diamond cut aluminum wheels. An available WARN® ZEON 12 winch. A rear limited-slip differential with ELocker® for maximum traction. An available Mopar® Sport Performance hood. Bilstein® gas-charged shocks paired with a five-link coil rear suspension for a smoother, more controlled ride. A class-exclusive available auto-level rear air suspension that adjusts on the fly. Four-wheel drive for confident power to every wheel. Off-road-tuned suspension. Increased ground clearance to clear obstacles other heavy-duty trucks can't. Skid plates that protect vital components from rocks and debris. Hill-descent control for steady, controlled descents on steep grades. Multiple off-road driving modes that adapt the truck's performance to the terrain ahead. Together, this lineup of features gives the RAM 2500 Rebel the traction, stability, and confidence to handle whatever terrain gets in your way. Heavy-Duty Construction and Confidence Built on the RAM 2500 Heavy Duty platform, it’s equipped with the same strength and capability you need for serious towing, hauling, and demanding job sites. As part of the RAM 2500 Heavy Duty lineup, the Rebel delivers the towing and hauling capability you'd expect from a true heavy-duty truck while adding specialized off-road features that set it apart. That combination is what makes the Rebel so versatile, and its powertrain lineup only adds to that flexibility, letting you choose the balance of power and performance that fits your needs: 6.4L HEMI® V8 gas engine delivering 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission. Available High-Output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 engine, offering a best-in-class 1,075 lb-ft of available diesel torque. Up to 20,000 pounds of towing capacity with the available diesel engine when properly equipped. Whether you need towing muscle for the jobsite or dependable power for the trail, the RAM 2500 Rebel is ready to deliver. Interior Comfort and Technology The rugged capability of the 2026 RAM 2500 Rebel doesn't mean you have to sacrifice comfort. Step inside, and you’ll notice that the cabin is designed to feel just as at home on a long road trip as it does during the daily commute. When it comes to technology, the infotainment system offers seamless smartphone integration and crisp, easy-to-read graphics so you stay connected on every drive. Standout interior features include: Premium leather-trimmed seating options with custom Rebel embroidery for a distinctive look. An eight-way power driver seat with an embossed tread pattern. Uconnect® 5 NAV with a 12-inch touchscreen, or an available largest-in-class 14.5-inch touchscreen. A 12-inch digital cluster display that puts key information right where you need it. Advanced climate control systems built to keep the cabin comfortable through South Carolina's hot summer weather. Premium audio options that deliver crystal-clear sound. Every inch of the Rebel's interior proves that heavy-duty capability and everyday comfort aren't mutually exclusive. Shop New RAM 2500 Heavy Duty Trucks for Sale Near You! If you’re looking for capability and rugged performance, look no further than the RAM 2500 Rebel. It’s designed for: Drivers who need heavy-duty power for serious hauling and towing. Construction and trade professionals who count on their truck to perform on the job. Adventurous families looking for a capable recreational vehicle that doesn't skimp on power. Outdoor enthusiasts and campers who like to venture off the pavement. If you're looking for a RAM heavy-duty truck for sale, visit our Manning RAM dealership to explore the latest models, compare trims, and check out current offers. And if you’re shopping on a budget, check out our used truck inventory. Not sure which RAM truck is the right fit for you? Visit Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram today to discover the power, capability, and reliability of the full RAM lineup. Our team is here to help you find the truck that fits your life!