Ram 2500

With two powerful engines to choose from, a stronger, lighter frame, a more upscale interior, and lots of comfort and tech features, the current-generation Ram 2500 blends luxury and heavy-duty utility. 

With its 2019 redesign, the Ram 2500 gained more capability over its predecessors and took a quantum leap forward in terms of technology features. 

The old 5.7-liter V8 is gone, and the more powerful 6.4-liter gasoline V8 is the Ram’s standard engine. The six-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine boasts the same impressive 850 lb-ft of torque as before, but it has been redesigned to improve efficiency. With a max towing capacity of 19,990 pounds and max payload of 3,910 pounds, the Ram 2500 is very competitive in the heavy-duty segment. 

This generation Ram 2500 offers a smoother and quieter ride compared to direct competitors, and it can be optioned up with an impressively luxurious and high-tech cabin. The seats are comfortable for long drives, and the Mega Cab configuration offers plenty of space for rear passengers. The large touchscreens are easy to use and include smartphone connectivity, and you get crisp visibility for the available camera systems. The optional 12-inch touchscreen is especially impressive.

The Ram 2500 started offering driver aids such as automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring in 2019, finally bringing advanced driver assist technology to the 2500 lineup. 

The 2011-2018 Ram 2500 is a capable truck with a surprisingly quiet ride and a much more upscale interior than its competitors at the time. A number of technology features only appear in later years, but that doesn’t detract from this generation’s competence.

The Ram 2500 was technically redesigned for the 2010 model year, when it was still sold as the Dodge Ram 2500. In 2011, Ram moved out from under Dodge and became its own brand. 

This generation features a more upscale interior than previous trucks, a retuned suspension for improved ride comfort, and a new crew-cab configuration, replacing the older Quad Cab body style. The 2011 model also introduced an electronic brake controller (to help with towing heavy trailers) and a tire pressure monitor as well as a more powerful optional turbodiesel engine.

A 5.7-liter V8 making 383 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque came standard in this generation, paired with a six-speed automatic from 2012 on. A more powerful, optional 6.5-liter gasoline V8 was added for 2014. For enhanced towing capability, there is a 6.7-liter inline six-cylinder Cummins turbodiesel that produces up to 350 horses and up to 850 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic and makes the most power when matched to the automatic. 

Trim levels changed slightly over the course of this generation but generally included the workhorse Tradesman, the volume-selling SLT, and the luxurious Laramie. There are also the plusher Laramie Longhorn and Limited trims and the off-road-oriented Power Wagon. Among the Power Wagon's notable features are skid plates, all-terrain tires, and electronically locking differentials.

Higher trim levels offer standard and optional niceties like dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, and even heated and ventilated seats. Early 2500 models offer Bluetooth® and a GPS navigation system.

A major refresh in 2013 added more technology and capability. Ram strengthened the truck’s frame and increased maximum power from the optional turbodiesel, increasing max towing capability. Ram also added an easy-to-use 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a major improvement over the older navigation unit. Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® were finally added in 2018.