2026 Ram 2500 vs Ram 3500
If you’re deciding between the 2026 Ram 2500 and the 2026 Ram 3500, you’re likely comparing towing strength, payload, pricing, and comfort. Both heavy-duty trucks are built for serious hauling, but the right choice depends on whether you prioritize daily usability or maximum workhorse capability.
In this guide from TruckReportGeeks.com, we’ll compare the Ram 2500 vs Ram 3500 across pricing, performance, towing, payload, bed sizes, interior comfort, and more—helping you make the right investment.
🔎 Quick Comparison Table: Ram 2500 vs Ram 3500
| Feature | 2026 Ram 2500 | 2026 Ram 3500 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | ~$52,000 | ~$55,500 |
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V8, 6.7L Cummins I6 Turbo-Diesel | Same engines + High-Output Cummins |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto (gas), 6-speed auto (diesel) | Same options |
| Max Horsepower | ~410 hp (gas), ~370 hp (diesel) | Up to ~420 hp with HO diesel |
| Max Torque | 429 lb-ft (gas), 850 lb-ft (diesel) | Up to 1,075 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | ~20,000 lbs | ~37,000 lbs (with gooseneck) |
| Max Payload | ~4,000 lbs | ~7,600 lbs |
| Bed Sizes | 6’4” or 8’ | 6’4” or 8’ |
| Fuel Economy | ~14–17 mpg (est.) | ~12–16 mpg (est.) |
| Best For | Balance of work + comfort | Extreme towing and payload |
💰 Pricing
The 2026 Ram 2500 starts at around $52,000, making it slightly more affordable than the Ram 3500, which begins at $55,500. Higher trims like Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited climb well into the $70K–$90K range, especially when equipped with the Cummins Turbo-Diesel.
⚙️ Engine, Performance & Transmission Options
- Ram 2500: Offers a 6.4L HEMI V8 with 410 horsepower and an available 6.7L Cummins Turbo-Diesel delivering 370 hp and 850 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices include an 8-speed automatic for the HEMI and a 6-speed automatic for the diesel.
- Ram 3500: Shares the same engines but adds a High-Output 6.7L Cummins with ~420 hp and 1,075 lb-ft of torque—perfect for the most demanding towing jobs.
🚛 Towing Capacity & Payload
- Ram 2500: Tow up to 20,000 lbs with the diesel and haul ~4,000 lbs payload. Ideal for trailers, boats, or campers.
- Ram 3500: When properly equipped with the High-Output Cummins, tow up to 37,000 lbs with a gooseneck and haul nearly 7,600 lbs payload.
👉 If towing and payload are your top priorities, the Ram 3500 dominates. But for drivers who mix heavy hauling with daily driving, the Ram 2500 is more versatile.
⛽ Fuel Economy (Estimates)
- Ram 2500: Around 14–17 mpg combined depending on engine and load.
- Ram 3500: Averages closer to 12–16 mpg, with the HO diesel skewing toward the lower end.
🚛 Interior Comfort & Cargo Specs
Both models share Ram’s luxury-inspired interiors, with options like leather seating, premium stitching, wood and metal accents, and massive storage areas.
- Cargo & Bed Sizes:
- 6’4” bed (standard)
- 8’ long bed (available)
- Both offer RamBox cargo management and power tailgate options.
📱 Infotainment & Tech
Both the 2500 and 3500 come with Uconnect 5 infotainment, featuring:
- Standard 8.4-inch touchscreen or available 12-inch display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
- Premium Harman Kardon audio on higher trims
🛡️ Safety Features
Ram equips both heavy-duty trucks with modern driver-assist tech:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Trailer Coverage
- Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Braking
- 360° Surround View Camera
🛠️ Warranty & Maintenance
Both trucks include:
- 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
- 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain (gas) or 5-year/100,000-mile (diesel)
- Roadside assistance packages available
❓ FAQs: Ram 2500 vs Ram 3500
Which truck is better for daily driving?
The Ram 2500 is more manageable in city traffic and offers better ride comfort for daily use.
Which has the highest towing rating?
The Ram 3500 High-Output Cummins can tow up to 37,000 lbs, making it best for commercial or fifth-wheel towing.
Do both offer luxury trims?
Yes—both trucks feature Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited trims with premium interiors.
Is the fuel economy difference significant?
Slightly—the Ram 2500 generally gets 1–2 mpg better than the Ram 3500.
🔗 Helpful Resources for Truck Shoppers
Here are some authoritative resources you can link to in your article:
- Ram Trucks Official Site
- Edmunds Ram 2500 Review
- Car and Driver Ram 3500 Review
- Kelley Blue Book Truck Values
- NHTSA Safety Ratings
📌 Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
- Choose the 2026 Ram 2500 if you want a balance of capability, comfort, and affordability.
- Go with the 2026 Ram 3500 if you need maximum towing and payload for commercial or heavy-duty use.
For more truck comparisons and towing guides, visit TruckReportGeeks.com — your go-to source for truck specs, payload breakdowns, and towing insights.