2025 Ram 2500

The Ram 2500 gets a big update for 2025 that closely resembles what the truckmaker did to the more popular 1500. However, where the 1500 has ditched the V8 entirely, the Heavy Duty models keep a gas-fed eight-cylinder engine while also gaining a new diesel straight-six, a new transmission, more tech and some fresh looks. 

We've already seen the changes thanks to a few teaser images Ram put out in the last half of 2024, so we aren't surprised by the exterior updates. The grille gets bigger, and the taillights have a new look to them. The headlights see a larger change because, for 2025, there are twice as many. The new split-headlight motif looks like it positions the main beams and daytime running lights in the upper cluster and the turn signals in the lower cluster. Add in the new hood vent on some models and that does it for the cosmetic changes. 

Edmunds spotlight: A brand-new diesel for 2025

The bigger story is the new 6.7-liter Cummins high-output turbodiesel straight-six engine and its eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine is rated at 430 horsepower and a massive 1,075 lb-ft of torque. A redesigned block and head, heavy-duty pistons, a higher-performance intake manifold, a new turbocharger and a higher-pressure fuel system all work to improve both durability and efficiency, according to Ram. 

For the gasoline V8 lovers among you, rest easy. The 6.4-liter Hemi V8 is still here and is rated at 405 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque, and it uses the same new eight-speed gearbox. The transmission has a neat trick (when bolted up to either engine) where it will start in second gear if the truck is unladen, making for a smoother experience when moving off the line. Max towing figures for the gas V8 haven't been released just yet, but with the diesel (and gooseneck trailering), Ram says max towing is rated at 36,610 when properly equipped.

Loads of new tech inside

Part of the Heavy Duty's refresh is a raft of new tech goodies that are, essentially, making their way from the 1500 to the 2500. Buyers have the option of either a 12-inch infotainment screen or a new 14.5-inch touchscreen display. The 12-incher has a higher-resolution display than before, while the larger screen can run two major tasks at once, like having both the radio and climate controls on the same screen at the same time. Both systems also feature more memory and a sturdier electrical architecture, which means they're quicker to respond to inputs. 

There is also a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster that can show nearly 24 different menus. That might seem like overkill, but when you're towing or hauling, engine and oil temperatures might be at the front of your mind, but then you might want to switch to a fuel economy display when you're just driving as usual. The passenger screen that made its debut on the 1500 has been added to the HD models as well, and it can show infotainment information or mirror a phone or tablet via an HDMI connection. 

The 2500 also offer a better lane keeping assistance system now, along with dual wireless phone chargers, an optional digital rearview mirror, and an onboard power inverter that can produce up to 2.4 kW of power. The final addition here is a variety of standard and optional safety features. Standard is adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and a front/rear parking assist on Big Horn models. Newly optional safety kit includes drowsy driver detection, traffic sign recognition and active lane management. 

The 2500 will be offered in Tradesman, Big Horn, Lone Star, Laramie, Rebel, Power Wagon, Limited Longhorn and Limited variants. Expect to see the new Ram Heavy Duty models on dealer lots in the next few months with a starting price of $47,560 after destination charges are applied.

Competitors to consider

The Ford Super Duty and the Chevy Silverado 2500 are this Ram’s biggest competitors. The Super Duty’s 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel V8 makes 1,200 lb-ft of torque and allows a max tow rating of 40,000 pounds — a touch more in both categories than the new Ram with the Cummins engine. The Chevy’s advantage lies in its slightly lower pricing across its trim structures, meaning its nicest models don’t cost as much as the top-spec Fords or Rams.

The Ram 2500 gets substantially updated for the new model year, and the new diesel is the engine to have for those who tow.