2018 Ram 2500 Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

byCameron RogersManager, News

　　Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at zzdcar include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).

　　

What’s new

　　Changes for the 2018 Ram 2500 include a standard rearview camera on all models; Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and a Wi-Fi hotspot for the optional 8.4-inch touchscreen; and the addition of a couple of new optional packages.

　　

Vehicle overview

　　As versatile as they are, light-duty trucks are not one-size-fits-all vehicles, especially if you have serious towing and hauling needs. For that, you'll need to step up to a heavy-duty pickup such as the 2018 Ram 2500. To put it into numbers, the Ram 1500 carries a max tow and payload rating of 10,620 pounds and 1,880 pounds, respectively. The Ram 2500 comes close to doubling those figures by towing up to 17,980 pounds and carrying 3,890 pounds in the bed.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Ram 2500 Tradesman 2dr Regular Cab LB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of N/A undefined in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　Not Available  for 2500 Tradesman

　　2500 Tradesman

　　Tradesman 2dr Regular Cab LB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $32,545 MSRPTradesman 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $35,345 MSRPTradesman 4dr Crew Cab SB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $36,145 MSRPTradesman 4dr Crew Cab LB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $36,345 MSRPTradesman 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) (Most Popular) - $38,945 MSRPTradesman 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $39,145 MSRPSLT 2dr Regular Cab LB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $36,745 MSRPSLT 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $39,545 MSRPSLT 4dr Crew Cab SB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $41,245 MSRPSLT 4dr Crew Cab LB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $41,445 MSRPSLT 4dr Mega Cab SB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $42,745 MSRPSLT 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $44,045 MSRPSLT 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $44,245 MSRPSLT 4dr Mega Cab 4WD SB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $45,545 MSRPBig Horn 4dr Crew Cab SB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $43,240 MSRPBig Horn 4dr Crew Cab LB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $43,440 MSRPBig Horn 4dr Mega Cab SB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $44,740 MSRPBig Horn 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $46,040 MSRPBig Horn 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $46,240 MSRPBig Horn 4dr Mega Cab 4WD SB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $47,540 MSRPLone Star 4dr Crew Cab SB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $43,240 MSRPLone Star 4dr Crew Cab LB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $43,440 MSRPLone Star 4dr Mega Cab SB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $44,740 MSRPLone Star 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $46,040 MSRPLone Star 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $46,240 MSRPLone Star 4dr Mega Cab 4WD SB (5.7L 8cyl 6A) - $47,540 MSRPLaramie 4dr Crew Cab SB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $47,745 MSRPLaramie 4dr Crew Cab LB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $47,945 MSRPLaramie 4dr Mega Cab SB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $49,245 MSRPLaramie 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $50,945 MSRPLaramie 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $51,145 MSRPLaramie 4dr Mega Cab 4WD SB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $52,445 MSRPPower Wagon 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $52,295 MSRPLonghorn 4dr Crew Cab SB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $54,495 MSRPLonghorn 4dr Crew Cab LB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $54,695 MSRPLonghorn 4dr Mega Cab SB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $55,995 MSRPLonghorn 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $57,695 MSRPLonghorn 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $57,895 MSRPLonghorn 4dr Mega Cab 4WD SB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $59,195 MSRPLimited 4dr Crew Cab LB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $57,895 MSRPLimited 4dr Crew Cab SB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $58,195 MSRPLimited 4dr Mega Cab SB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $59,695 MSRPLimited 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $61,095 MSRPLimited 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $61,395 MSRPLimited 4dr Mega Cab 4WD SB (6.4L 8cyl 6A) - $62,895 MSRP

　　vs

　　$233/mo

　　Avg. Large Truck

　　The Ram 2500 is unique in the heavy-duty truck segment because of its coil-spring rear suspension that gives it a more comfortable ride than its competitors. Such a configuration also allows for an air suspension, just like the one available for the Ram 1500. Besides improved ride comfort, the air suspension levels the bed when towing and hauling to keep the headlights pointed straight ahead.

　　The 2018 Ram 2500 offers something for everyone, whether you're looking for a basic work truck, a luxury equipment hauler or a trail-conquering pickup. It's an excellent all-rounder that surpasses many rivals.

　　Notably, we picked the 2018 Ram 2500 (including the Ram 2500 Diesel) as one of zzdcar' Best Pickup Trucks for 2018.

　　

zzdcar' Expert Rating

　　The 2018 Ram 2500 heavy-duty pickup is a good step up for those who like the standard Ram 1500 but require something a bit beefier. Higher payload and tow ratings make it a more versatile vehicle. It's also a more comfortable-riding truck than its main rivals.

　　

Trim tested

　　Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of a Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn Crew Cab (turbo 6.7L inline-6 diesel | 6-speed automatic | 4WD).

　　NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current Ram 2500 has received some revisions, including a revised 8.4-inch touchscreen system for 2018. Our findings remain applicable to this year's Ram 2500.

　　

Driving

　　The 6.7-liter Cummins diesel's strong suit is torque, so this powertrain really comes into its own when climbing, towing or hauling. And though this is one massive truck, it's a snap to maneuver thanks to reassuring steering and secure handling.

　　

Acceleration

　　At 8.7 seconds to 60 mph, this Cummins diesel-powered Ram 2500 was slightly quicker than the lighter Ram 1500 diesel. But the 800 lb-ft of torque is what's important for towing, hauling or climbing grades.

　　

Braking

　　The Ram 2500 4x4 Crew Cab is a huge truck, and its 144-foot panic-stop distance reflects that. The pedal was never abrupt, a good trait when dealing with heavy loads. Easy to modulate on dirt and gravel roads, too.

　　

Steering

　　There's predictable response with good feedback. It goes arrow-straight down the highway, too. The effort is a tad high, but reassuringly so. There's zero kickback when driving on rocky Forest Service roads.

　　

Handling

　　The 2500 tracks confidently through corners, belying its size. Midcorner ripples and bumps don't throw it offline because of the class-exclusive coil-spring rear suspension.

　　

Drivability

　　The shifting is smooth and confident through the six-speed automatic. The diesel's exhaust brake controls speed well on descents. Our one gripe: the clumsy location of the manual downshift switch on the column lever.

　　

Off-road

　　It has good gearing and a remarkably tight turning circle. The diesel exhaust brake combines well with low range to control the descent speed. The coil-spring rear suspension is quite flexible in frame-twist situations.

　　

Comfort

　　There's no getting around having a firm ride in a 2500 series truck built to tow and haul this much. But the Ram's cabin is comfy and quiet, and its coil-spring suspension really takes the edge off and makes the ride less skittish.

　　

Seat comfort

　　We never tired of the supportive and well-shaped seats even after extended periods. This sentiment applied pretty much equally to the rear seats, too.

　　

Ride comfort

　　It's a 2500 series truck, so the unladen ride feels firm. But the Ram's unique coil-spring suspension removes the usual pickup skittishness, really taking the edge off compared to the competition.

　　

Noise & vibration

　　Road and wind noise is admirably restrained. The diesel does emit a bit of signature noise when accelerating, but it quiets down when cruising at steady speeds.

　　

Interior

　　Expect excellent ergonomics and front cabin airiness from the 2018 Ram 2500. The capable Uconnect infotainment system is easy to use. The crew cab provides excellent backseat space, more than enough for full-grown adults to settle in for long trips.

　　

Ease of use

　　The climate switchgear and touchscreen radio controls are as good as anything, and the driving position is comfy. The steering wheel buttons are oddly laid out, but they conjure up an amazing array of data.

　　

Getting in/getting out

　　The access to the front seat is good with handy grab handles. The wide-opening rear doors offer similar handles. The only real issue is the cab height, but competing 2500 series trucks are just as tall.

　　

Roominess

　　The front cabin is open, and the styling makes the dash feel airy, not monolithic. The crew cab's rear seat offers no-compromise, full-size accommodations. Everyone's a winner here. The Mega Cab is particularly accommodating thanks to expanded legroom and reclining seatbacks.

　　

Visibility

　　Visibility is quite good to the sides and the front, plus the mirrors are large. The sheer height of the bed makes for blind-spot issues. The backup camera is finally standard for this year, and the image is shown on the central display for models equipped with the 5- and 8.4-inch touchscreens.

　　

Quality

　　The exterior gaps and the paint quality are good. Inside, solid material and design choices give off a premium vibe. The quietness suggests there's no scrimping in unseen places.

　　

Utility

　　The Ram 2500 is all about towing, hauling and bed capacity. Maximum capacities are impressive, and the Ram comes with either a short bed or a long bed.

　　

Small-item storage

　　All four doors have generous pockets. Handy storage wells are hidden under the rear floor mats. The Ram gives you plenty of bins and pockets to supplement the dual gloveboxes.

　　

Cargo space

　　The rear seat bottoms fold up, and there are foldout platforms if a flat surface is desired. The unique RamBox feature places a pair of lockable compartments over the rear fenders adjacent to the truck bed.

　　

Towing

　　This is a pretty unstoppable combination. The trailer brake controller is built-in and integrated into the information screen. The optional built-in fifth-wheel and gooseneck hinge sockets are a bargain. Properly equipped, a Ram 2500 can tow up to 17,980 pounds.

　　

Hauling

　　Properly equipped, a Ram 2500 can haul up to 3,890 pounds in the bed.

　　

Technology

　　Large, logically located virtual buttons, reasonably quick response times, and ample functionality for smartphone users make the Ram 2500's touchscreen one of the best in almost any vehicle.

　　

Which 2500 does zzdcar recommend?

　　Given the Ram 2500's seemingly infinite customization options, it's difficult to recommend any one trim. The Tradesman is ideal if you want a no-frills work truck, while the Limited lets others know who the boss is at the work site. If you just want a decent all-rounder with a few amenities, go with the Lone Star, which is sold as the Big Horn in Texas. It adds a few extra features for just a bit more than the SLT. From there, you can customize it to your heart's content.

　　

2018 Ram 2500 models

　　Like many heavy-duty pickups, the 2018 Ram 2500 is available in multiple configurations. There are three cab styles, two bed lengths, three engines, two transmissions and seven trim levels: Tradesman, SLT, Big Horn/Lone Star, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn, Limited and Power Wagon. At one end of the spectrum is the Tradesman, a minimal-frills workhorse. At the other, the Limited, widens the boundaries of big-truck luxury. The Power Wagon stands alone as the off-road-ready variant.

　　Cab styles include a two-door regular cab, a four-door crew cab, and a four-door jumbo crew cab called the Mega Cab. The regular cab comes with a long bed (8 feet) only, while the crew cab has either the long bed or the short bed (6 feet 4 inches). The Mega Cab rides on the same wheelbase as the long-bed crew cab but combines an even bigger cabin with the short bed.

　　Most 2500s come with a 5.7-liter V8 gasoline engine (383 horsepower, 400 pound-feet of torque) paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. A modified version of this engine runs on compressed natural gas (CNG) and produces identical power figures to the gasoline version. The CNG option is only available on regular and crew-cab models with the 8-foot bed.

　　There are two optional engines: a 6.4-liter V8 (410 hp, 429 lb-ft of torque) paired to a six-speed automatic transmission and a turbocharged 6.7-liter diesel six-cylinder. The latter makes 350 hp and 660 lb-ft when matched to a six-speed manual transmission. When paired with a reinforced six-speed automatic, those numbers are 370 hp and 800 lb-ft of torque.

　　The Tradesman and SLT trims are available with all three cabs, while the Big Horn/Lone Star, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn and Limited versions can only be ordered with a crew cab or a Mega Cab. The off-road Power Wagon variant (crew cab, short bed only) can be ordered in Tradesman and standard forms.

　　The 2500 is available with either rear-wheel drive or part-time four-wheel drive, except the Power Wagon, which is available in 4WD form only.

　　The Tradesman is the most basic trim. Standard feature highlights include 17-inch steel wheels, a locking tailgate, air conditioning, a 40/20/40-split front bench, a tilt-only steering wheel, a driver information display, vinyl upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with an incorporated rearview camera display, and a six-speaker stereo with a USB port.

　　Power windows and locks, including the locking tailgate, are standard on crew-cab models, as are power-adjustable and heated mirrors. Regular-cab models have manual controls and non-heated mirrors by default.

　　The SLT adds chrome exterior trim, 18-inch steel wheels, an integrated trailer brake controller, power heated mirrors, a power-sliding rear window (manual on regular cabs), remote locking and unlocking, an overhead console, cloth upholstery, carpeted floors, full power accessories for all body styles, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a 5-inch touchscreen interface that displays the rearview camera image.

　　The Big Horn (Lone Star for shoppers in Texas) adds 18-inch alloy wheels, a limited-slip rear differential, chrome grille slats, foglights, remote ignition, a 115-volt power outlet, a power-adjustable driver's seat, premium cloth upholstery and an extra charge-only USB port.

　　The Laramie builds off the Big Horn /Lone Star and adds a standard 6.4-liter V8, more chrome trim (including the bumpers), projector headlights, LED taillights, power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors, front and rear parking sensors, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, driver-seat memory settings, a power-adjustable front passenger seat, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, an upgraded driver information display, a 10-speaker surround-sound audio system, HD radio, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and an 8.4-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The limited-slip differential is dropped as standard equipment but is available as an option.

　　The Laramie Longhorn adds to the Laramie's substantial features list by including a chrome mesh grille, accent-colored bumpers, running boards, a spray-in bedliner, LED bed lights, remote ignition, a full center console, upgraded floor mats, upgraded leather upholstery, wood interior and steering wheel trim, power-adjustable pedals with memory settings, front bucket seats, heated rear seats and a navigation system.

　　The Limited trim adds monotone paint, color-keyed bumpers, 20-inch wheels, additional chrome exterior trim, automatic high beams, automatic wipers, the RamBox cargo management system (includes bedside storage compartments, an adjustable bed divider and tie-downs), keyless entry and ignition, and special black leather upholstery.

　　Finally, there's the off-road-themed Power Wagon, which is available only in crew-cab 4WD with the short bed and the 6.4-liter V8. It has some slightly different exterior and interior styling changes, but it's the extensive mechanical upgrades that make a Power Wagon. They include unique 17-inch wheels shod with aggressive all-terrain tires, Bilstein off-road shock absorbers, tow hooks, skid plates, a manual transfer case, electronically locking front and rear differentials with a 4.10 axle ratio, hill descent control, an integrated front winch, and a front anti-roll bar than can be disconnected electronically to improve wheel articulation off-road.

　　Interestingly, the Power Wagon isn't just a trim level. It's also an option package you can add to a crew-cab Tradesman 4x4 with a 6.4-liter Hemi engine. Here you'll get all of the Power Wagon mechanical bits, including the fender flares, but without any other bodywork styling cues or graphics. It's a stealthy working man's Power Wagon at a lower price.

　　Those who aren't looking for the extreme capability of the Power Wagon can select the 4x4 Off-Road package that is available on 2500 crew-cab and Mega Cab 4x4 models. This package is available with any engine and includes hill descent control, tow hooks, a transfer case skid plate, upgraded shocks, a limited-slip differential, and all-terrain tires.

　　Many upper trim features are available on lower trim levels as part of packages or as stand-alone options. Other option highlights include a load-leveling air suspension, tow mirrors, a cargo-view camera, fifth-wheel trailer preparation, off-road tires, a CD player and a sunroof.

　　

2018 2500 Highlights

Type: Crew CabMega CabRegular CabCrew Cab

　　Trim: TradesmanSLTBig HornLone StarLaramiePower WagonLonghornLimitedTradesman

　　

Base MSRP	$36,145
Engine Type	Gas
Seating	6 seats
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Max Towing Capacity	17,570 lbs.
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles