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2016 Ram 2500 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Ram 2500 highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • Excellent torque and towing capacity with optional diesel engine
  • High-quality cabin design and materials
  • Comfortable and quiet ride
  • Mega Cab offers roomy back seat

Cons

  • Diesel makes less power with standard manual transmission
  • Driver aids are not available

Mileage (EPA estimate)

(data not available)

Pricing for current inventory

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The 2016 Ram 2500 keeps its heavy-duty cred

Strong optional engines and stand-out ride quality for a heavy-duty truck make the 2016 Ram 2500 worth considering. The most notable downside is the limited availability of technology features that are common on newer model years. There’s still plenty of options for customization, including a range of cab styles and bed lengths, and upgrades to improve towing and hauling, off-road prowess, and comfort.

The 2016 Ram 2500 (formerly named the Dodge Ram 2500) is available in a range of trim levels, from the no-frills Tradesman trim to the fully loaded Laramie Limited, and the off-road Power Wagon. Multiple cab and bed configurations are also on offer, including a choice of either a 6-foot 4-inch or 8-foot bed. For 2016, front parking sensors became available.

All Ram 2500 years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Ram 2500 generation from 2012 to 2026

What is new for the 2016 Ram 2500?

  • The 2500 is available in a new trim called the Laramie Limited.
  • The Limited trim has been discontinued for 2016.
  • 2500 trims have been upgraded with Alpine Sound System and Harman Kardon Sound as standard equipment this year.
  • The Outdoorsman trim now comes with Power Seat(s) as standard equipment.

What We Like

Strong optional engines: The Ram 2500’s optional turbocharged diesel engine and optional gasoline V8 add towing and hauling capability for the heavy-duty truck. The diesel engine puts out an impressive 800 lb-ft of torque, and the 6.5-liter V8 is no slouch for a gasoline engine, making 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque.

Excellent comfort: With a quiet cabin, cushy seats, and stand out ride quality for the class, the Ram 2500 is a top pick if comfort is a priority. Optional upgrades like heated and ventilated front seats and power-adjustable pedals add to the Ram’s appeal in higher trim levels.

Off-road-ready Power Wagon: The Ram 2500 Power Wagon gets locking differentials, a manual transfer case, skid plates, a power winch, additional lights and more to make it a strong off-road contender right off the lot. Towing capacity is slightly diminished, but the Power Wagon is a true go-anywhere truck.

What needs improvement

Limited technology features: For 2016, the Ram 2500 added front parking sensors to its list of features available on select trims, along with touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth®, and a rearview camera. However, much of the Ram’s tech isn’t standard, and more modern features like driver aids and smartphone integration aren’t available.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

5 out of 5

1 customer reviews

RepairPal reliability rating

3
Average

RepairPal gave the Ram 2500 an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks Ram 2500 12th out of 19 among Fullsize Trucks.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Ram 2500

Ram 2500 features and specs

Curious how Ram 2500 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

SLT 2WD 2D Regular Cab

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Tow Hitch
  • Traction Control

Optional Features

  • Alloy Wheels
  • Alpine Sound System
  • Bed Cover
  • Bed Liner
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Fifth Wheel Tow Hitch
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Gooseneck Tow Hitch
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Long Bed
  • Navigation System
  • Parking Sensors
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Remote Start
  • Running Boards
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Tow Hitch

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

5.7L

Horsepower

383

Torque (ft-lbs)

400

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

32

Wheelbase

140.5"

Overall length

230.4"

Width

79.4"

Height

77.3"

Leg room

F 41"

Head room

F 39.9"

Front tires

LT275/70SR18

Rear tires

LT275/70SR18

Seating capacity

3

Max towing capacity

1177/11770 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2016 Ram 2500 FAQ

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