Which Ram 2500 Engine is the Best? Exploring Your Options
The Ram 2500 is one of the most popular heavy-duty trucks in the market today, known for its ruggedness, reliability, and impressive towing capabilities. Choosing the right engine for your Ram 2500 is crucial, as it directly impacts performance, fuel efficiency, towing capacity, and long-term durability. Whether you’re hauling heavy loads, off-roading, or just using it for everyday tasks, knowing which engine is best suited to your needs can make a huge difference. Let’s dive into the three main engine options for the Ram 2500 and determine which one is the best based on different requirements.
1. 6.4L HEMI® V8 Engine (The Best Engine Ram 2500)
Overview
The 6.4L HEMI® V8 is the standard gasoline engine for the Ram 2500. This engine delivers solid power, reliability, and decent fuel efficiency, especially for those not needing the massive torque offered by diesel. The HEMI name itself is synonymous with performance, and this engine lives up to the legacy.
- Power Output: 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque
- Max Towing Capacity: Up to 17,730 pounds
- Fuel Economy: (varies based on driving conditions but generally offers decent mileage for a V8)
Strengths
The 6.4L HEMI® V8 is the engine of choice for drivers who prioritize power and responsiveness. This engine can handle tough tasks without breaking a sweat, whether it’s towing a boat, trailer, or other heavy equipment. The smooth acceleration and robust performance are particularly beneficial for drivers who want a balance of power and versatility without the added cost of diesel.
Another advantage is the lower initial cost compared to the diesel engine. For drivers who don’t need diesel-level torque for towing or hauling, the V8 provides plenty of power for most tasks at a more affordable price.
Best For:
- Drivers who prioritize horsepower and acceleration
- Those who don’t require maximum towing capacity
- People looking for a more affordable option upfront
- Casual haulers and drivers who don’t need diesel torque
2. 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 Engine (The Best Engine Ram 2500)
Overview
If towing capacity and torque are your primary concerns, the 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 is one of the most capable engines you can find in a heavy-duty truck. Cummins is a well-established name in diesel engine technology, and this particular engine in the Ram 2500 is celebrated for its immense pulling power and durability.
- Power Output: 370 horsepower and an astonishing 850 lb-ft of torque
- Max Towing Capacity: Up to 19,680 pounds
- Fuel Economy: Diesel engines are generally more fuel-efficient, especially for long hauls
Strengths
The real star of this engine is its torque. With 850 lb-ft of torque, the Cummins® Turbo Diesel provides incredible pulling power, making it ideal for heavy-duty towing. Whether you’re towing a horse trailer, a large RV, or heavy construction equipment, this engine gets the job done with ease. The diesel engine also tends to last longer than gasoline engines, making it a great investment for those planning to keep their truck for the long haul.
Another strength of the Cummins® engine is its fuel efficiency, especially under load. Diesel engines typically offer better fuel economy than their gasoline counterparts when towing or carrying heavy loads, helping to lower operating costs over time.
Best For:
- Drivers who need maximum towing capacity and torque
- Those regularly hauling heavy trailers, RVs, or construction equipment
- Long-distance drivers who benefit from better fuel efficiency
- Buyers seeking long-term durability and resale value
3. 6.7L Cummins® High Output Turbo Diesel I6 Engine (Ram 2500 Power Wagon only)
Overview
The Ram 2500 Power Wagon is offered with a specialized version of the 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel engine, known as the High Output (HO) Turbo Diesel. This engine is even more powerful and capable than the standard version, delivering unparalleled towing capacity and torque.
- Power Output: 420 horsepower and 1,075 lb-ft of torque
- Max Towing Capacity: Up to 20,000 pounds
- Fuel Economy: Slightly lower than the regular Cummins due to the added performance but still more efficient than gasoline
Strengths (The Best Engine Ram 2500)
The High Output Turbo Diesel is the ultimate engine for serious towing. With over 1,000 lb-ft of torque, this engine allows the Ram 2500 Power Wagon to tow just about anything you can hitch to it. If you need a truck that can handle extreme conditions and push the limits of what a heavy-duty truck is capable of, the HO Turbo Diesel is the way to go.
This engine is also built for durability. Cummins® engines are well-known for their longevity, and the HO version is designed to withstand the toughest workloads over the long haul, making it the ideal choice for those who rely heavily on their truck for work.
Best For:
- Heavy-duty workers and contractors who need top-tier performance
- Drivers who require the highest towing and hauling capacities
- Off-road enthusiasts with demanding terrain and worksite requirements
- Those seeking the most powerful diesel engine in its class
Which Engine is the Best? (The Best Engine Ram 2500)
Ultimately, the best Ram 2500 engine depends on your specific needs.
- For everyday drivers and those who don’t tow heavy loads, the 6.4L HEMI® V8 offers plenty of power and responsiveness, making it the best choice for balanced performance and affordability.
- For those who need superior towing capacity and drive long distances regularly, the 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 is the best engine. It offers a perfect blend of torque, durability, and fuel efficiency.
- For serious heavy-duty users or those with extreme towing demands, the 6.7L Cummins® High Output Turbo Diesel is unbeatable, offering the highest towing capacity and torque of any engine available in the Ram 2500 lineup.
Conclusion (The Best Engine Ram 2500)
When choosing the best engine for your Ram 2500, it’s essential to consider your driving habits, towing needs, and budget. Each engine offers unique advantages, whether it’s the power and affordability of the 6.4L HEMI® V8, the towing prowess of the 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel, or the unmatched strength of the High Output version. By weighing these factors, you’ll be able to pick the perfect engine for your Ram 2500 and enjoy a truck that meets all your demands.
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