2015 Ram HD Expert Review
Reviewed by Stefan Ogbac
The 2015 Ram 2500 and 3500 gain power-folding mirrors, a new exterior color, optional "work grade" vinyl seats, hill descent control for Power Wagon variants, and a new instrument panel for SLT models with the Luxury Group package.
Vehicle Summary
The 2015 Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty trucks are sold with three engine choices, three cab styles, two box lengths, and in rear- or four-wheel-drive configurations. Both models are available with a diesel powertrain. 2500 models are available in 10 trim levels while the 3500 is offered in six grades.
Overview
The 2015 Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty trucks are available with three engines: two V-8s, a 5.7-liter and 6.4-liter, and a turbocharged diesel I-6. All powertrains are available with a six-speed automatic transmission while a six-speed manual is also offered only with the diesel engine.
- Engine and Transmission: 5.7-liter V-8 - six-speed automatic
- Power: 383 hp/400 lb-ft
- Max Towing: 13,870 pounds (2500), 13,910 pounds (3500)
- Engine and Transmission: 6.4-liter V-8 - six-speed automatic
- Power: 410 hp/429 lb-ft
- Max Towing: 16,450 pounds (2500), 16,520 pounds (3500)
- Engine: Turbodiesel 6.7-liter I-6 - six-speed manual or automatic
- Power: 350 hp/660 lb-ft (manual), 370 hp/800 lb-ft (automatic), 385 hp/ 865 lb-ft (automatic, 3500 only)
- Max Towing Capacity: 17,970 pounds (2500), 30,000 pounds (3500)
The 2015 Ram 2500 and 3500 offer great performance with impressive towing capacity when equipped with a diesel engine, and excellent off-road capabilities in the case of the 2500 Power Wagon variants. Power with the 5.7-liter and the diesel I-6 is good with "what seems like endless torque" in the latter. When properly equipped, both trucks make towing large payloads a breeze particularly with the I-6's torque. Additionally, it is easy to drive and "doesn't feel as long and wide as it is." Ride quality, however, remains rough, especially when it's unladen, while the truck's brakes and steering could use some improvement to make them "more confidence-inspiring."
Space inside both trucks is cavernous for passengers in Mega Cab models and offers many tech and convenience features such as a rearview and bed camera, an 8.4-inch touchscreen with available navigation and cooled seats. The availability of these options makes both trucks' cabins feel premium especially in the Laramie Longhorn trim, which is the upscale offering in the range.
The NHTSA and the IIHS have not crash tested the 2015 Ram 2500 and 3500.
What We Think
The 2015 Ram 2500 and 3500 are great choices for work trucks due to their impressive capabilities and well-appointed interiors. In a 2014 First Test review, we said that the 3500 is easy to drive and extremely capable with the torquey diesel engine, allowing it to tow up to 30,000 pounds effortlessly. Off-road capability is also notable in the 2500 Power Wagon with a well-tuned chassis that allows the truck to tackle challenging trails with ease. Interior build quality and appointments are two other strong points with a cabin that is "surprisingly luxurious" particularly Laramie variants. Chrysler's excellent UConnect system is also present and complements the upscale interior with a user-friendly infotainment interface, as well, as convenience features such as a rearview and bed camera. The trucks' rough ride, however, remains a weak point particularly when it isn't loaded. Additionally, the Power Wagon's disappointing fuel economy, and the diesel's eye popping $8,195 premium can cause buyers to question whether it's a worthwhile upgrade to the gas-powered V-8s.
Key Competitors
- Ford F-Series Super Duty
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500
- GMC Sierra 2500
