2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options
The 2025 Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck built to handle the most demanding tasks with ease.
Whether you’re towing massive trailers, hauling heavy loads, or conquering rugged terrain, the 2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options deliver the power and versatility required for the job.
This comprehensive guide explores the engine choices for the 2025 Ram 2500, diving into their specifications, performance, and ideal applications.
By understanding the 2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options, you can confidently choose the powertrain that aligns with your work and lifestyle needs.
Why the 2025 Ram 2500 Stands Out
The Ram 2500 has earned a loyal following among truck enthusiasts for its rugged capability and refined comfort.
For 2025, Ram elevates this heavy-duty pickup with updated styling, advanced technology, and powerful engines.
The 2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options are designed to deliver exceptional towing and payload capacities, making it a top contender for contractors, adventurers, and heavy-duty haulers.
Compared to rivals like the Ford F-250 and Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, the Ram 2500 shines with its class-leading diesel torque and smooth power delivery.
To get a broader perspective on the truck’s refreshed design and features, check out Edmunds’ preview of the 2025 Ram 2500 for insights into its styling and powertrain updates.
Overview of the 2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options
The 2025 Ram 2500 offers two robust engine choices: a gasoline-powered V8 and a high-output diesel inline-six.
These 2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options cater to diverse needs, from budget-conscious buyers to those requiring maximum towing power.
Both engines are paired with advanced transmissions to ensure seamless performance under heavy loads.
Below, we’ll explore each engine in detail, covering their specs, performance, and best use cases.
6.4-Liter HEMI V8 Engine
The standard engine for the 2025 Ram 2500 is the 6.4-liter HEMI V8.
This gasoline-powered engine produces 405 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque.
It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, renowned for its smooth shifts and efficiency.
The HEMI V8 is perfect for buyers seeking reliable power without the higher cost of a diesel engine.
It offers a maximum towing capacity of up to 17,750 pounds when properly equipped.
The payload capacity reaches up to 4,420 pounds, ideal for hauling heavy cargo in the bed.
This engine is standard across most trims, including the Tradesman, Big Horn, and Laramie, and is the exclusive option for the off-road-focused Power Wagon.
The HEMI V8 provides lively acceleration, making it a great choice for daily driving or lighter towing tasks.
Its fully electronic operation and on-the-fly shift mapping ensure optimal performance in various conditions.
For those prioritizing affordability and versatility, the 6.4-liter HEMI V8 is a standout among the 2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options.
To explore the truck’s full range of trims and configurations, visit the official Ram Trucks 2025 Ram 2500 specifications page.
6.7-Liter Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 Engine
The available 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 is the powerhouse of the 2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options, tailored for those who demand maximum capability.
This high-output diesel engine delivers 430 horsepower and an impressive 1,075 pound-feet of torque.
For 2025, Ram has made this high-output version the sole diesel tune, a significant upgrade from previous years’ lower-output options.
The Cummins diesel is paired with a new TorqueFlite HD eight-speed automatic transmission, replacing the older six-speed unit.
This transmission is engineered to handle the engine’s massive torque, offering seamless shifts and improved efficiency.
The diesel engine enables a maximum towing capacity of up to 20,000 pounds for the 2500, with the Ram 3500 reaching 36,610 pounds in specific configurations.
Its payload capacity is up to 2,750 pounds, slightly lower than the HEMI due to the engine’s heavier weight.
The Cummins diesel features a redesigned block and head, larger valves, a new turbocharger, and glow plugs for improved cold starts, making it ideal for harsh climates.
For deeper insights into these upgrades, read Car and Driver’s coverage of the 2025 Ram HD’s reworked Cummins diesel.
Ram claims the updated diesel shaves 1.1 seconds off the 0-60 mph time compared to the 2024 model, now achieving 6.9 seconds.
This engine is available on all trims except the Power Wagon, with approximately 70% of Ram 2500 buyers opting for the diesel due to its superior towing and low-end torque.
For heavy-duty tasks like towing fifth-wheel trailers or hauling large boats, the Cummins diesel is unmatched among the 2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options.
For insider details on the Cummins engine’s new features, check out The Fast Lane Truck’s report on the 2025 Ram HD Cummins engine.
Comparing the 2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options
Choosing between the HEMI V8 and Cummins diesel depends on your specific needs.
The HEMI V8 is lighter, offering better handling for city driving and quicker acceleration when unladen.
Its lower upfront cost and maintenance expenses make it attractive for buyers who don’t require extreme towing capabilities.
However, its fuel efficiency is lower, typically ranging from 12 to 14 mpg based on independent tests.
The Cummins diesel, while pricier (an additional $12,595), excels in heavy-duty applications.
Its best-in-class diesel torque of 1,075 pound-feet ensures effortless towing, even on steep grades like the Davis Dam used in SAE J2807 tow tests.
The diesel achieves better fuel efficiency, averaging 15 to 20 mpg, a significant advantage for long hauls.
The trade-off is its heavier weight (1,060 pounds versus 570 pounds for the HEMI), which can make it feel less nimble in daily driving.
Both 2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options are available with rear-wheel drive as standard, with four-wheel drive optional for enhanced traction.
The eight-speed transmissions for both engines are tailored to optimize performance, with the diesel’s transmission featuring logic to adjust shifts based on load conditions.
For a broader look at the truck’s performance and features, visit MotorTrend’s 2025 Ram 2500 buyer’s guide.
Performance and Towing Capabilities
The 2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options are engineered to excel in towing and hauling, but their performance varies.
The HEMI V8 is well-suited for moderate towing tasks, such as pulling a boat or camper weighing up to 17,750 pounds.
Its lively power delivery makes it enjoyable for off-road adventures, especially in the Rebel or Power Wagon trims.
The Cummins diesel is the go-to choice for maximum towing, capable of handling up to 20,000 pounds for the 2500.
Its low-end torque ensures steady performance on challenging grades, and features like the integrated trailer brake controller and Trailer Reverse Steering Control simplify towing.
The diesel’s exhaust brake, paired with Tow/Haul mode, provides confident control when descending with heavy loads.
Both engines benefit from Ram’s advanced towing technologies, including a 360-degree camera system, trailer tire pressure monitoring, and adaptive cruise control that adjusts speed with a trailer attached.
These features enhance safety and convenience, positioning the 2025 Ram 2500 as a leader in its class.
Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance
Fuel efficiency is a critical factor for truck buyers.
The HEMI V8, while powerful, is less efficient due to its gasoline nature, averaging 12 to 14 mpg.
This makes it better suited for shorter trips or occasional heavy-duty tasks.
The Cummins diesel offers better efficiency, ranging from 15 to 20 mpg, which can lead to significant savings over long distances.
However, diesel fuel is typically more expensive, and the engine’s higher upfront cost should be considered.
Maintenance costs for the HEMI V8 are generally lower, as gasoline engines require less complex servicing.
The Cummins diesel, while durable, has higher maintenance expenses due to its turbocharger, fuel system, and emissions components.
Ram offers a five-year/100,000-mile warranty for the diesel powertrain, compared to five years/60,000 miles for the gas engine, providing peace of mind for diesel buyers.
Best Use Cases for Each Engine
The HEMI V8 is ideal for buyers who need a versatile truck for daily driving, light towing, or off-road adventures.
Its lower cost and lively performance make it a great choice for the Tradesman, Big Horn, or Power Wagon trims.
The Cummins diesel is best for those who regularly tow heavy loads, such as contractors, farmers, or RV enthusiasts.
Its superior torque and towing capacity make it the preferred option for the Laramie, Limited Longhorn, or Limited trims, where luxury meets capability.
By evaluating your towing needs, budget, and driving habits, you can select the best among the 2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options.
Conclusion
The 2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options offer unmatched power and versatility for heavy-duty truck buyers.
The 6.4-liter HEMI V8 delivers affordable performance for daily driving and moderate towing.
The 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 provides best-in-class torque for serious towing and hauling.
Both engines are paired with advanced eight-speed transmissions and supported by cutting-edge towing technologies.
Whether you’re a contractor, adventurer, or family hauler, the 2025 Ram 2500 has an engine to match your needs.
By choosing the right engine, you can enjoy a truck that combines rugged capability with modern comfort.