The biggest news about the Ram 2500 is the new lower-emission powerplant, and that it has an exhaust brake (more on that later). Otherwise, the truck is similar to the one we drove for a year in 2006; which isn't bad, because it's a great truck.
The Dodge hasn't changed, really, since it was refreshed for the 2006 model year, which coincided with the introduction of the Mega Cab. The truck retained its big-rig-inspired demeanor, which is fine with us. Apparently, it's fine with Dodge, too. The 18-wheeler motif is spreading to other vehicles bearing the brand, with smaller SUVs such as the Nitro, and the mid-sized Dakota, which is acquiring a more aggressive demeanor. Of the three trucks, the Ram ranks as No. 2, as the "Most Truck-Like," behind the Ford. We have driven both the Dodge Ram 1500 and last-gen diesel 2500 a lot. While we really like the Ram, the Dodge is getting left in the dust when it comes to interior styling. Our HD tester still had the navigation unit we complained about all last year, because it didn't have a touchscreen, and we don't like that finicky control knob. We're waiting for MyGig to make it to the Ram soon. And once it does, it will probably blow away the currently available systems in the competition. We like Dodge's solution for storing cargo with the second-row seating. The seats flip up against the seat backs, and a tray covered with fabric folds out and across the floor, providing an even, stable surface for whatever is placed on it.
Looks aren't the only department where the Ram tries to emulate a big rig. The latest Dodge offers something neither the Chevy nor Ford do-an exhaust brake. Push a button on the center console, and you hear the urgent "grrrrrrrrrr" of a tractor-trailer as it slowly, but inexorably, scrubs speed on a long decline. While we didn't test the exhaust brake extensively, we did manage to use it while going downhill and pulling our test trailer, where the brake worked just fine to control our descent.
The Ram used to have the noisiest engine of the three diesels. Now, it seems as quiet as the rest, which is an improvement from our perspective. Like the Ford and Chevrolet diesel-powered pickups, the Ram's emissions are clean enough to meet the tough, new standards demanded by the EPA for 2007. However, the Dodge appears to exceed the other two brands with the fact that its Bluetec diesel engine also complies with the even tougher, 50-state emissions regulation that go live in 2010. Way to go, Dodge. The Ram also did OK on the dyno and on the track. With the Chevrolet beating both the Ford and Dodge in both arenas, Dodge was left battling Ford for runner up. On the dyno, Dodge got third, but won second on the track.
As far as heavy-duty pickups go, the Dodge Ram 2500 does the job right. But, we get the sense that while it is certainly in the game from the standpoint of performance, it just doesn't have the mojo going on that Ford and Chevrolet do with their designs.
Price (as tested)
$51,850 without destination (base $37,725, options $14,125)
Warranty
Bumper-to-Bumper: 3 years/36,000 miles Powertrain: Lifetime warranty applies to original owner and to vehicles sold after July 26, 2007, vehicle must be inspected, at no charge, every five years.
Engine
6.7L I-6 Cummins diesel
Horsepower
350 at 3,013 rpm SAE
271.38 at 3,200 rpm at the wheels, as tested
Torque (lb-ft)
650 at 1,500 rpm SAE
477.21 at 2,870 rpm at the wheels, as tested
Transmission
Six-speed automatic
Drivetrain
4WD
Final Drive Ratio
4.1
Suspension
Live axle, Quadra Link leading arms, track bar, coil springs, electric disconnecting stabilizer bar, monotube shcks (front); Live axle, leaf springs, and shocks (rear)
Brakes
13.9-inch rotors (front and rear); four-wheel ABS
Turning (curb-to-curb)
50.3 ft
Curb Weight
6,271 lb base
GVWR & GCWR
9,000 lb and 20,000 lb
Max Trailer Weight
12,950 lb (weight distributing), 16,500 lb (fifth wheel)
Payload
2,800 lb
Cargo Bed (length x width between wheelwells)
98.3x51 in
Seating
6
Acceleration (0-60 mph)(corrected) 8.97 sec (without trailer), 16.69 sec (with trailer)
Quarter-Mile (corrected)
16.65 sec at 82.94 mph (without trailer), 20.43 sec at 67.94 mph (with trailer)
Braking (60-0 mph)
196.68 ft (without trailer)
Options As Tested
Preferred Package 2FH (rear power sliding window, 17-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, powered six-way front seats, heated front seats, electronic shift on the fly transfer case, navigation head unit with six-CD changer and seven-speaker Infinity system, overhead console with trip computer and garage opener), Trailer Group (Class IV hitch receiver and 7-pin wiring harness), supplemental side curtain airbags, front and rear floor mats, six-speed automatic transmission, 4.10 axle, anti-spin differential rear axle, 6.7L diesel, tow hooks, 750-ampere alternator, fold-away power towing mirrors, chrome tubular sidesteps, diesel exhaust brake, LT265/70R17E tires, and bedliner.)