In conversation about today’s heavy-duty trucks, the ¾ and 1-ton Ram pickups can never be overlooked. Within this segment, Rams have been at the forefront of popularity for years and as we ring in the new year, we’re going to take a deep dive into the latest 2025 model. More specifically, the Ram 2500.
Regardless of whether you’re team Cummins or not, that Cummins contract remains strong within Ram heavy-duty trucks (as an option). New year, same truck? Actually, no. This guide will give you all of Ram’s mission-critical updates to their late model, redesign details, and new specifications, and should help you know more about the 2025 Ram 2500 upon its release.
Ram 2500 Redesign: What’s New for 2025
The 2025 Ram 2500 has undergone a significant redesign, enhancing its already strong reputation. This year’s model features a refreshed exterior with a new grille design, updated LED headlights, and new paint options, including striking shades like Patriot Blue Pearl and Delmonico Red. The truck’s muscular stance is further emphasized by its redesigned front and rear bumpers, giving it a more modern yet aggressive look.
Inside, the 2025 Ram 2500 doesn’t disappoint. Ram has upgraded the materials and refined the cabin layout, offering improved comfort and functionality. The addition of a larger infotainment screen—measuring 14.5 inches—ensures easy access to navigation, entertainment, and towing apps. Advanced driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree surround-view camera, now come standard in higher trims.
With these updates, the 2025 Ram 2500 blends rugged capability with modern technology, appealing to both work-focused buyers and those looking for a comfortable daily driver.
2025 Ram 2500 Specs
Underneath the sleek new design, the 2025 Ram 2500 packs new specifications that make it a standout in its category. The 2025 Ram 2500 has a towing capacity of up to 20,000 pounds, making it well-suited for hauling heavy trailers and equipment. You may notice this is slightly lower than the prior models, but that is because the rear gear axle ratio has been changed from 4.10 to 3.42 to match its new 8-speed automatic transmission.
These updates solidify the 2025 Ram 2500 as a versatile option for towing, hauling, and off-road adventures. Whether you’re hauling heavy machinery or towing a fifth-wheel trailer, this truck is built to perform.
Engine Options And Improvements
The 2025 Ram 2500 offers a range of engine choices to suit various needs. Here’s a closer look at what’s under the hood:
- 6.4L HEMI V8: The base engine delivers 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. It’s a solid choice for those who prioritize affordability without compromising on performance.
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel: The high-output Cummins produces 430 horsepower and 1,075 lb-ft of torque, which is 60 more horsepower and 225 lb/ft of torque over the 2024.
For diesel enthusiasts, the Cummins engine is the crown jewel, offering incredible durability and performance. Notably, the 2025 model introduces several key updates. The Cummins engine block transitions from a CGI block back to a reliable cast iron design. While the CGI block offered over 70 pounds of weight savings, there were concerns about its long-term durability, which the cast iron block aims to resolve.
Additionally, one of the key updates to the Cummins engine is the shift from a cast-on intake manifold to a bolt-on cast-aluminum design. This change not only reduces weight but also improves cylinder balance and airflow. The improved design compliments the 2mm larger intake valves, enabling the engine to breathe more freely.
The 2025 Cummins engine transitions to a V8 diesel-style intake heater with glow plugs, marking a significant departure from the traditional grid heater system. This change not only addresses the well-known grid heater bolt issue but also improves cold start performance. According to RAM’s Chief Engineer, glow plugs heat up faster than the grid heater, ensuring quicker, more reliable starts in cold conditions.
The new Holset 10-blade VGT turbo optimizes exhaust gas pressure and improves airflow while addressing common actuator failure issues, significantly enhancing overall turbo reliability. Furthermore, the cylinder head has been redesigned to include external injectors and fuel rail lines, improving efficiency and reliability for smoother operation and easier access to diagnostics or maintenance.
The new CP8 fuel pump may resemble the older CP4 externally, but its internals are said to be much different. Rated to handle up to 2,200 bar (30,000 psi) of fuel pressure, this pump delivers improvements in both fuel economy and power potential. It’s a leap forward in efficiency and performance, setting a new standard for modern diesel engines.
The earlier Cummins engines utilized spur gears behind the front cover, which, while functional, often created a somewhat noisy operation. For 2025, Cummins has updated to a helical gear assembly. This change reduces gear noise while maintaining durability. These helical gears still will drive the camshaft and fuel pump, reflecting a significant development that fine-tunes the iconic Cummins sound enthusiasts know and love.
The 2025 Cummins engine brings much-needed convenience to routine maintenance. Both fuel filters are now located on the driver’s side of the block, eliminating the need to crawl under the truck for changes. Similarly, the new top-load oil filter design is mounted high in the engine bay, making oil changes quicker and cleaner while reducing the risk of spills. These updates make regular upkeep far more straightforward, saving time and hassle for DIYers and professionals alike.
Interior
The 2025 Ram 2500 takes comfort and tech to the next level with an upgraded interior. The new electronics setup mirrors the advanced tech found in the 2025 Ram 1500, offering more modern features and better gadget connectivity. A standout change is the larger 12.3-inch touchscreen on the Tradesman trims, replacing the previous 8.4-inch display for a more intuitive experience. For those who want the latest, there’s an optional 14.5-inch screen that further enhances the tech experience.
Higher trims like the Laramie come with luxury touches such as leather and suede seats, combining upscale comfort with the rugged truck vibe. Additionally, the 2500 has cool features borrowed from the Ram 1500, like a fully digital 12.3-inch gauge cluster and a vertical 14.5-inch infotainment system. These upgrades make the interior not only more functional but also more driver-friendly, perfect for everything from towing to daily driving.
Transmission
The 2025 Ram 2500 now has the ZF Powerline 8-speed automatic transmission for the Cummins diesel engines, replacing the older 6-speed. This upgrade makes the truck shift smoother, improves fuel efficiency, and handles the heavy torque from the diesel engine better.
It has been said that the transmission will use gears 1-6 for power and performance, perfect for towing and heavy loads, while gears 7-8 are designed for highway cruising to optimize fuel economy. These updates make the 2025 Ram 2500 safer and easier to drive when you’re pulling heavy trailers or working in tough conditions.
Trim Levels
The 2025 Ram 2500 offers a variety of trim levels tailored to different needs. The base Tradesman is designed for work, with essential features, while the Big Horn adds chrome accents, fog lights, and upgraded interior options for a balance of utility and style.
The Laramie brings leather-trimmed seats, advanced infotainment, and additional comfort features for a more luxurious experience. Off-road enthusiasts can choose the Power Wagon, with features like electronic locking differentials and a winch, perfect for tough terrains. The Rebel offers off-road capability too, but with a more versatile, less aggressive setup.
For a premium touch, the Laramie Longhorn combines Western styling with high-end materials, while the Limited trim offers top-tier luxury and cutting-edge technology. Each trim is designed to meet specific needs, from work to luxury, allowing buyers to find the perfect fit for their lifestyle.
In addition to its trims, the 2025 Ram 2500 is equipped with a range of interior and tech features aimed at enhancing comfort and convenience. The available 12-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen offers seamless smartphone integration and navigation, while higher trims include heated and ventilated seats, premium audio systems, and high-quality materials. For safety, advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning help ensure a safer and more manageable driving experience.
Should You Upgrade to a 2025 Dodge Ram 2500?
If you’re considering upgrading to the 2025 Ram 2500, there are plenty of reasons to make the jump. With significant improvements to the Cummins engine, the truck offers great towing and payload capabilities while addressing a lot of the common problem areas. The upgraded infotainment system, enhanced driver assistance features, and improved connectivity make this model more user-friendly than ever. Whether you’re looking for a dependable work truck or a more luxurious daily driver, the 2025 Ram 2500 has configurations to meet your needs.
While aftermarket support for the 2025 model is still in the early stages, it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for emerging options as they become available. In the meantime, investing in towing upgrades like heavy-duty hitch systems, sway control devices, or auxiliary transmission coolers can further enhance your truck’s performance.
Your One-Stop Shop for 2025 Ram 2500 Diesel Parts
While aftermarket support for the 2025 Ram 2500 is still developing, Diesel Power Products is here to help you get the most out of your truck. As new solutions become available, we’ll offer a growing selection of premium Cummins parts designed to enhance performance, durability, and efficiency.
Whether you’re looking for more horsepower, improved towing capabilities, or preparing for heavy-duty tasks, our team is ready to assist. Be on the lookout at Diesel Power Products for any upcoming 2025 Ram 2500 upgrades! Browse our inventory and check back often for the latest parts tailored to keep your truck performing at its best.
Conclusion
The 2025 Ram 2500 offers strong performance with the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel, providing excellent towing capacity and durability through updates like a new cast iron block and bolt-on intake manifold. The ZF Powerline 8-speed automatic transmission aids in fuel efficiency and shifting. However, the 6.7L Cummins engine has had issues with hydraulic roller lifters in the past, which should be considered for long-term reliability.
Inside, the Ram 2500 features a 12.3-inch touchscreen and upgraded materials for a more comfortable ride, along with safety features like adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning. With trims ranging from the practical Tradesman to the luxury Limited, it offers flexibility to suit different needs. Pricing starts at around $47,560 for the base Tradesman, with higher trims and options available. Be mindful of your intended use, budget, and trim selection, and take a test drive to ensure the right fit. The 2025 Ram 2500 will be available at dealerships in early 2025.