The 2025 Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty pickups have received a significant update, aligning their features and technology with their lighter sibling, the Ram 1500. While the US market will see these updated models as early as April 2025, Australian availability is expected to follow approximately 12 to 18 months later, mirroring the typical launch timeline for previous Ram updates.
This comprehensive facelift introduces several key enhancements, most notably a significant power boost for the diesel engine. The high-output version of the 6.7-liter Cummins inline-six turbo-diesel now delivers an impressive 321kW of power and 1458Nm of torque, marking a 22kW increase over the previous iteration while maintaining the same robust torque output. This power increase, coupled with an upgraded eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission equipped with an electronic column-mounted gear selector, promises faster acceleration, particularly when towing heavy loads. Ram claims a 0-97km/h sprint time of 6.9 seconds for the unladen 2500 diesel, a substantial improvement over the previous eight-second mark.
The updated diesel engine incorporates several refinements, including a new high-pressure fuel delivery system and an enhanced variable-geometry turbocharger. Furthermore, service and maintenance have been streamlined with easier software updates at the dealership level, and the repositioning of the oil filter and dual fuel filters to the top side of the engine for improved accessibility. To ensure reliable operation even in the harshest conditions, Ram has incorporated standard glow plugs to enhance cold-start performance.
While the US market retains the 6.4-liter naturally-aspirated Hemi V8 engine, producing 298kW and 582Nm of torque, and paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, Australian models will continue to exclusively feature the powerful diesel engine. The updated diesel engine in US models enables impressive towing capabilities, with a maximum towing capacity of 16,606 kilograms when equipped with a "more fuel-efficient" 3.42 rear axle ratio. However, Australian towing capacities are likely to remain limited to 8000kg when equipped with an auxiliary gooseneck tow hitch and air brakes.
The exterior styling has been refreshed to align with the contemporary design language of the Ram 1500. Key changes include a redesigned grille, a distinctive split headlight design, updated LED taillights, and new alloy wheel designs.
Inside the cabin, the 2025 Ram 2500 and 3500 benefit from significant technology upgrades. The integration of the 14.5-inch portrait-oriented UConnect 5 infotainment touchscreen, previously seen in the Ram 1500, elevates the in-cabin experience. This is complemented by a 10.25-inch passenger screen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster in flagship models, enhancing driver information and entertainment options. While Australian models currently feature a 12-inch touchscreen and a 7.0-inch semi-digital instrument cluster, the facelifted models are expected to adopt the larger digital displays as standard.
Further enhancements include the addition of a digital rear-view mirror, a convenient dual wireless phone charger, and, in the US market, an onboard 2.4kW power inverter with outlets in the truck bed, enabling the powering of various devices with the engine running.
The advanced driver-assistance systems have also been refined, with the lane-keep assist system now incorporating enhanced steering corrections for improved lane centering. This refinement utilizes the blind-spot sensors integrated within the tail-lights to provide more precise and responsive steering assistance.
The 2025 Ram 2500 and 3500 represent a significant advancement for the legendary heavy-duty truck lineup, offering enhanced performance, advanced technology, and a refined interior. While Australian availability is anticipated in the coming months, these updates promise to further solidify the Ram 2500 and 3500 as industry leaders in the heavy-duty truck segment.