The big American metal is getting an upgrade.
Prices and specifications for the Ram’s MY25 2500 and 3500 pick-up range have been announced.
The new models have a fresh look, more luxurious specifications and class-leading torque thanks to a major engine overhaul.
Ram says this is the biggest change to the Ram 2500 and 3500 range since 2021.
The arrival of the MY25 Ram 2500 and 3500 comes as Ram Trucks Australia remanufactured its 35,000th vehicle last month – making it the biggest seller of US pick-ups in Australasia.
LUXURY AND TECHNOLOGY
In response to changing market trends, the MY25 Ram 2500 and 3500 have more luxury and technology than any Ram 2500 and 3500 launched to date.
The Black Pack – an option in the US – is now standard and includes a black grille, wheels, side mirrors and side steps, plus the ‘Sport Hood’ power bulge bonnet.
Inside, the MY25 Ram 2500 and 3500 gain a new 12.3-inch digital widescreen instrument cluster to complement the 12-inch infotainment screen, a first-in-class dual wireless smartphone charger, and 9-speaker Alpine audio.
A more luxurious five-seat layout delivers better front seat comfort and accommodates a large, multi-layer centre console.
Both front leather seats have heating and cooling and eight-way power adjustment.
Height-adjustable brake and accelerator pedals – which move electronically at the press of a button on the steering column – enable the driver to find the most comfortable driving position.
The back seats have ample under-seat storage, including a fold-out platform that creates a flat load space.
A complete suite of advanced safety features is standard, including updated lane-keeping technology, speed-sign recognition, driver fatigue monitoring, and an autonomous emergency braking system now with cyclist and pedestrian detection.
There is also a side-view monitor that uses the side cameras when the indicator is activated, such as when changing lanes or making a turn.
All four side mirror lenses are electronically adjustable – and the mirrors extend at the press of a button when towing.
NEW 6.7-LITRE CUMMINS ENGINE
At the heart of the MY25 Ram 2500 and 3500 is a significantly overhauled 6.7-litre in-line six-cylinder Cummins turbo diesel engine which has the most torque in its class.
With a power output of 313kW and 1458Nm torque the new engine has 13 per cent more power and 26 per cent more torque compared to the engine it replaces.
The increases in power and torque have been made possible by the following changes:
• Redesigned engine block and head
• Heavy-duty pistons
• New turbocharger
• Higher-pressure fuel system
• New performance intake manifold
• Larger intake and exhaust valves for improved port flow
• Improved intake port geometry for top-feed injectors
These sweeping changes to the engine and a new transmission deliver significant improvements to performance, acceleration and efficiency – as well as improved suppression of noise, vibration and harshness.
A new eight-speed ZF TorqueFlite automatic replaces the previous six-speed automatic, and a new final drive ratio (now 3.42:1 versus 3.73:1 previously) trims fuel consumption at highway speeds.
The performance improvement is tangible. When unladen, the MY25 Ram 2500 Heavy Duty goes 0 to 100kmh in approximately 7.2 seconds compared to approximately 8.2 seconds for the previous model.
TOWING AND CAPABILITY
The new, more responsive drivetrain is especially an advantage when towing or hauling heavy loads.
Maximum towing capacities are as follows: 3500kg (50mm & 1 7/8” tow ball) 4500kg (2 5/16” tow ball) 6942kg (pintle only).
The MY25 Ram 2500 Heavy Duty maximum Gross Combination Mass (GCM) is 12,750kg and the payload is 785kg.
Compared to the 2500 the MY25 Ram 3500 Heavy Duty has an increased Gross Combination Mass (GCM) of 14,433kg and an increased payload of 1652kg.
A fuel-saving measure, the MY25 Ram 2500 Heavy Duty launches in second gear by default.
However, once the vehicle detects it is towing or carrying a heavy load, the transmission will automatically switch to first gear when moving from rest.
First-gear launches can be locked in manually when ‘tow’ or ‘haul’ mode is activated. The column shifter is electronically controlled, for smoother operation.
Exhaust brakes – a means of slowing a diesel engine by closing off the exhaust path, causing exhaust gases to be compressed – can be activated at the press of a button, to assist with long descents when towing or carrying a heavy load.
MY25 RAM 2500/3500 HD PRICES AND SPECIFICATIONS:
Price: $189,990 (2500 HD), $194,990 (3500 HD)
Engine: 6.7-litre in-line six-cylinder Cummins turbo diesel
Power: 313kW at 2800rpm
Torque: 1458Nm at 1800rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic, 2WD and 4WD
Front brakes: 359.9mm x 39.1mm discs, twin-piston callipers
Rear brakes: 357.9mm x 34mm discs, twin-piston callipers
Exhaust brakes: Yes
Wheels: 18 x 8-inch alloy (steel spare)
Tyres: 275/70/18 AT
Length: 6066mm
Width: 2630mm mirrors extended
Width: 2220mm
Height: 2037mm
Wheelbase: 3785mm
Turning circle: 14.6 metres
Approach angle: 22.9 degrees
Departure angle: 25.8 degrees
Ground clearance: 237mm (front axle)
Weight: 3710kg (2500 HD), 3700kg (3500 HD)
Payload: 785kg (2500 HD), 1652kg (3500 HD)
Cargo tub length: 6ft 4in (193cm)
Gross Vehicle Mass: 4495kg (2500 HD), 5352kg (3500 HD, NB2 category)
Gross Combination Mass: 12,750kg (2500 HD), 14,433 (3500 HD)
Fuel tank capacity: 117 litres
Tow bar: 12-pin connector (trailer brake compatible)
Towing capacity 50mm tow ball 1 7/8” tow ball: 3500kg
Towing capacity 2 5/16” tow ball 4500kg. 6942kg (pintle only)
