Ram 1500 vs. 2500 vs. 3500
Choosing the right Ram truck depends on your needs since each Ram model has a distinct role. The light-duty Ram 1500 is redesigned for power and luxury, the heavy-duty Ram 2500 adds new diesel capability and off-road editions, and the Ram 3500 takes towing to the next level.
At New Holland Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (CDJR), we want to help you compare the Ram 1500 vs. Ram 2500 vs. Ram 3500.
Below, we break down their engines, towing/payload specs, trim levels, and tech/comfort features to help you find the perfect fit for the roads near New Holland, Lancaster, and Reading, Pennsylvania.
Ram 1500 Engine Options
The Ram 1500 offers three gas engines. The new twin-turbo 3.0L Hurricane V6 comes in two tunes: a 540 horsepower high-output version with 521 lb-ft of torque and a 420 horsepower version with 469 lb-ft of torque.*
The standard 3.6L Pentastar® V6 with eTorque hybrid assist also features 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. All use advanced 8-speed automatics.
Ram 2500 Engine Options
Heavy-duty buyers can choose Ram 2500 for a 6.4L HEMI® V8 with 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque or a 6.7L Cummins inline-6 diesel with an impressive 430 horsepower and legendary 1,075 lb-ft of torque to help you from Point A to Point B.*
The upgraded TorqueFlite® 8-speed automatic delivers 1,075 lb-ft of torque, and all versions have robust transmissions. 4×4 is available on most trim levels, making it easy to handle all types of terrain.
Ram 3500 Engine Options
The 3500 has the same engines as the 2500, focusing on maximum capability. Its 6.7L Cummins diesel makes 430 horsepower and 1,075 lb-ft of torque, giving it a class-leading grunt, and the gas 6.4L HEMI V8 offers strong specs, too.
All versions of the 3500 are mated to an 8-speed automatic with heavy-duty internals. In short, the 3500 is built for the most challenging jobs.*
Ram 1500 vs. 2500 vs. 3500 Trim Levels
Each model comes in multiple trim levels.
The 1500 lineup runs from base Tradesman up through Big Horn, Laramie, Longhorn, and flagship Limited, plus new editions, such as:
- The off-road Warlock (blacked-out badging)
- The luxury Tungsten
- And the EV-based RHO model.
The 2500/3500 lineup includes Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited. The 2500 also offers heavy-duty off-road editions, such as the Power Wagon and Rebel, for serious off-road capability.
Ram 1500 Towing and Payload Capacity
Even the half-ton 1500 is a towing champ when you're looking for incredible strength.
The Hurricane V6's maximum towing weight is 11,550 pounds, enough to haul a loaded mid-size travel trailer or boat. For perspective, an average 22-foot travel trailer weighs about 2,800 lb when empty, and the 1500 could tow roughly four of those.
The maximum payload is 2,370 pounds with the V6 eTorque.
Ram 2500 Towing and Payload Capacity
The Ram 2500 can tow up to 20,000 pounds when equipped with the new high-output 6.7L Cummins diesel, which can handle a huge fifth-wheel RV or heavy equipment trailer.
Gas V8 models tow up to 17,750 pounds and carry about 4,420 pounds. In other words, the gas 2500 can haul over 2 tons in the bed and drop 9,000+ pound trailers.
Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
The 3500 is the powerhouse of the bunch. Its top diesel rating is 36,610 pounds of gooseneck towing, on par with the best heavy-duty trucks. That’s more than the curb weight of some medium-duty trucks and far exceeds the weight of any consumer RV or horse trailer.
Gas models can tow up to 18,150 lb, and the 3500 can carry 7,590 lb in its bed with the HEMI. In everyday terms, this means the 3500 can haul multiple large trailers or boatloads at once.
Each Ram also offers towing aids (like trailer brake control, tow/haul mode, sway control, 360° cameras, and available trailer reverse steering) to make heavy hauling easier and safer.
Ram 1500 vs. 2500 vs. 3500 Technology and Comfort Features
Speaking of technological perks, these Ram trucks bring modern tech and comfort upgrades:
Ram 1500: The new 1500 is the most luxurious ever. Higher trims get premium leather, real wood/carbon fiber trim, and even noise-cancelling cabin materials. Interior tech is cutting edge: available screens total over 50 inches of display area. Uconnect® 5 infotainment with optional navigation and smartphone integration is standard, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are available to help you stay connected on the go.
Ram 2500: The 2500’s cabin is spacious and tech-rich. A standard Uconnect® 5 system can be upgraded to the largest in class 14.5 inch touchscreen. You get wireless charging pads, an available 12-inch digital gauge cluster, and connected services. Higher trims add leather seats, premium audio, and advanced safety that you can use to stay safe on the go.
Ram 3500: The 3500 shares the 2500’s tech, and premium trims may add quilted leather seats, wood/metal trim, heated/ventilated front and rear seats, and premium audio systems.
Exceptional Ram Features
All models use a high-strength steel frame for toughness and durability. Available on 1500 and 2500/3500 are self-leveling or air suspensions for a smooth ride under load, and Ram’s proven axles and Big Horn differentials handle the work.
Advanced safety systems abound, with over 100 standard/available features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning with active braking, and more.
In addition, every model can be outfitted with Mopar® accessories and protection packages to further customize your truck.
FAQs
Which Ram Truck Is Best for Towing?
If towing is your top priority, the Ram 3500 is your best bet. Equipped with the high-output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel engine, it can tow up to 36,610 pounds when properly configured.
Is the Ram 1500 A Good Everyday Truck?
Yes! The Ram 1500 blends everyday comfort with serious power. Its smooth ride, upscale interior, and modern tech features make it an excellent choice for commuting, errands, or weekend towing.
How Does the Ram 2500 Differ from The 3500?
Both are heavy-duty trucks, but the 2500 is slightly more maneuverable and better suited for mixed daily and job site use. The 3500 offers greater payload and towing capacity thanks to upgraded rear suspension and stronger frame components.
Test Drive a Ram 1500 vs. 2500 vs. 3500 Today
The correct Ram is waiting for drivers in the New Holland, Lancaster, and Reading, PA areas. Compare the perks of the Ram 1500 vs. Ram 2500 vs. Ram 3500 as you settle into the right truck to get you where you want to be, and schedule a test drive at New Holland CDJR. Contact us today!
*https://www.ramtrucks.com/ram-1500/capability.html#:~:text=MAXIMUM%20HORSEPOWER
*https://www.ramtrucks.com/ram-2500/capability.html
*https://www.ramtrucks.com/ram-3500.html
