2018 Ram 2500
Built For Work
Few automotive segments are as competitive as pickup trucks, thanks to an intense rivalry among the Detroit Three automakers. Fiat Chrysler Automobile’s (FCA) RAM Trucks won’t give an inch to Ford and Chevrolet, though. The 2018 Ram 2500 remains a compelling option for any heavy-duty truck buyer, thanks to first-class powertrains and an impressive list of features.
Performance
For its powertrains, the 2018 Ram 2500 draws on some legendary names to offer the maximum capability for truck buyers. Both HEMI® gasoline and Cummins® diesel engines should help RAM keep pace with eternal rivals Ford and General Motors in the battle for truck bragging rights. One number to brag about is the RAM’s quoted maximum diesel towing capacity of 17,980 pounds.
RAM actually offers two HEMI® V8 engines in the three-quarter-ton 2500. The first is a 5.7-liter unit that produces 383 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, and the second is a 6.4-liter mill producing 410 hp and 429 lb-ft. Both engines are mated to six-speed manual transmissions with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Because the Ram 2500 is classified as a heavy-duty vehicle, the EPA does not require fuel economy ratings.
RAM also offers multiple versions of a 6.7-liter Cummins® diesel inline-six with some truly staggering figures. Base versions with a six-speed manual transmission are rated at 350 hp and 660 lb-ft of torque, while versions with a six-speed automatic are rated at 370 hp and 800 lb-ft. But buyers can also opt for a high-output version with 385 hp and 900 lb-ft of torque.
The Ram 2500 isn’t just about power, though. The automaker offers five-link rear suspension and air-spring options, both of which are more sophisticated than what you get on competitor trucks. RAM also remains the only brand to offer a dedicated off-road model in the form of the Power Wagon®, which features beefed-up suspension, unique styling, and other upgrades.
Features
The 2018 Ram 2500 is a three-quarter ton heavy-duty pickup truck. It’s available in Regular Cab, Crew Cab, and Mega Cab configurations, with two different bed lengths. RAM offers no less than seven trim levels, priced starting from $32,545.*
The base Ram 2500 Tradesman is a real work truck, with only essential standard equipment like automatic headlights, manual air conditioning, a 3.5-inch driver information display, 12-volt auxiliary outlet, 40/20/20 split-folding bench seats, and 17-inch steel wheels.
The SLT model adds a bit more standard equipment, including chrome exterior trim, power heated exterior mirrors, power sliding rear window, 5.0-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth®, and 18-inch chrome-clad steel wheels.
The Big Horn/Lone Star model builds on the Tradesman and SLT, incorporating their applicable standard equipment and adding features like fog lights and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Next up is the Power Wagon®, which adds off-road features like a winch, increased ground clearance, Bilstein® mono-tube shocks, locking differentials, and 33-inch Goodyear® Wrangler DuraTrac® tires.
The Laramie model takes things in a more luxurious direction, with features like dual-zone automatic climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated front seats, heated and ventilated power leather seats, heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and the Uconnect® infotainment system with 8.4-inch touchscreen.
The Laramie Longhorn adds even more standard equipment, including running boards, bucket seats with full-size floor console, power-adjustable pedals with memory, wood-trimmed steering wheel, navigation, and a spray-in bedliner. Finally, the Limited model adds the RamBox® cargo management system, rain-sensing wipers, Keyless Enter-N-Go™, Premium Natura leather high-back bucket seats, and more.
Design
The 2018 Ram 2500 features bold exterior styling that gives it a more distinctive look than its traditionally styled rivals from Ford and General Motors. The prominent grille, muscular fenders, and swept-back headlights are the latest example of design DNA that dates back to the 1994 Dodge RAM, which is still considered a landmark truck in the industry.
The interior shows just how far modern trucks have come. While you can still get a spartan Tradesman model with vinyl floor mats, it’s also possible to get a fairly luxurious cabin, complete with leather seats and other niceties. The Ram 2500 is available with the same Uconnect® infotainment system used in numerous other Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) products.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2018 Ram 2500 includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and a full array of airbags. Optional features include a rearview camera, and front and rear park assist.
Verdict
The 2018 Ram 2500 is a tough truck with a comprehensive array of features.
For more information or to schedule a test drive of the 2018 Ram 2500, contact us online or visit Heritage CDJR Harrisburg, Owings Mills & Parkville at Find A Store Near You.
* MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title and registration fees. Starting at price refers to the base model, optional equipment not included. A more expensive model may be shown. Pricing and offers may change at any time without notification. To get full pricing details, see your dealer.
Image Credit: Ram