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The 2021 Ram 2500 (formerly called the Dodge Ram 2500) combines heavy-duty capability with an upscale interior and advanced technology features. In its higher trim levels, the Ram impresses with its driver aids, plush materials, and big touchscreen. But the bread and butter of HD trucks is their larger towing and hauling numbers, and while the Ram 2500 isn’t at the top of its class, its maximum payload capacity of around 4,000 pounds and maximum trailer towing capacity of around 20,000 pounds when properly equipped are more than enough to tackle most jobs. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories. There are only a few downsides to the Ram 2500, including the optional diesel engine’s noise level and a driving position that will feel a little too high for some drivers.
For 2021, the Ram 2500 gets an optional camera-based rearview mirror, but not much else has changed. Otherwise, the Ram continues on with the same choice of two massive engines–a gas V8 and turbocharged six-cylinder diesel–and the option of either an 8-foot or 6-foot 4-inch bed. You’ll also find the same seven trim levels, from the no-nonsense Tradesman to the fully loaded Limited model. And, for shoppers looking for more adventure, there’s always the off-road-specific Power Wagon.
Drive type | 2WD |
Engine size | 6.4L |
Horsepower | 410 |
Torque (ft-lbs) | 429 |
Engine type | Gas |
Fuel capacity | 32 |
Wheelbase | 140.5" |
Overall length | 232" |
Width | 79.4" |
Height | 78" |
Leg room | F 40.9" |
Head room | F 39.8" |
Front tires | LT275/70SR18 |
Rear tires | LT275/70SR18 |
Seating capacity | 3 |
Max towing capacity | 1497/14970 lbs. |
Transmission | Automatic |
Strong engine choices: The Ram 2500 offers two engines to choose from, depending on your needs. The standard gasoline V8 makes 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, but for maximum towing power you’ll want the optional turbocharged diesel engine and its massive 850 lb-ft of torque.
Excellent comfort: The Ram 2500 has about as refined a ride as you can find in a heavy-duty truck. It’s noticeably less bumpy and quieter on the freeway than its competitors, unless you opt for the diesel engine. The Ram’s front seats are built for the long haul, and in higher trims the cabin features plenty of upscale materials. If comfort is a priority, the Ram is definitely worth considering.
Impressive tech features: The Ram 2500 offers plenty of thoroughly modern tech options. The infotainment can be upgraded with wireless phone charging and an expansive 12.3-inch touchscreen. A full suite of advanced driver aids are also available, including blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.
Diesel engine noise: The Ram 2500’s optional diesel engine is a significant upgrade to the truck’s capability, but it comes with a downside. The rough sound of the diesel engine is very audible in the otherwise quiet cabin, especially running at freeway speeds. If you’re not planning on doing heavy towing, the standard gas engine may be more pleasant to live with.
RepairPal gave the Ram 2500 an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Ram 2500 17th out of 25 among Fullsize Trucks.
View RepairPal's full rating of the Ram 2500