2018 Ram 3500 HD Review, Specs

Heavy duty trucks never go out of demand, as it is. The Ford Super Duty and Ram HD range of trucks are quite popular among buyers looking for such workhorse trucks. The existing Ram HD truck lineup has not undergone much change in last few years. However, FCA is sprucing up the 2018 Ram 3500 HD lineup in a small way to make it more competitive. Styling does not alter much but the powertrain changes are welcome.

2018 Ram 3500 HD - front

2018 Ram 3500 HD – External Body Parts and Inner Cosmetic Changes

As it is, it is hard to differentiate the Ram 3500 HD 2018 lineup from the previous year models, from outside. Exterior styling remains the same. However, Longhorn and Laramie trims get new grille. This is in sync with the Ram 1500 lineup where top trims get distinctive grille styling. The front bumper gets air slots for better engine cooling.

You may opt for the famous RamBox bed- a dry and lockable place for storage minus hassles. You may also opt for skid plates to protect engine parts from rocks. The trim levels are unchanged, with Tradesman being entry level and Limited being the top end one. Other trims are SLT, Big Horn, Laramie, Lone Star, and Laramie Longhorn.

Like the 1500 lineup, the Ram 3500 Lineup also has a few special editions. The Tungsten Edition, which is built on Limited trim, is one example. It gets added chrome details on body and unique wheels along with huge sized RAM logo on the tailgate. You are most likely to get the Night Special Edition from 2017 model lineup as well. You get three cab sizes- Regular, exclusive Mega Cab and Crew Cab.

Interior:

The cabin of 2018 Ram 3500 HD lineup is left unchanged, much like the exterior. The cabin is large but it looks somewhat dated now. The Tradesman trim gets vinyl flooring, driver information screen and split bench seat. Both Big Horn and Lone Star trims get several upgrades. Luxury seekers should opt for the Laramie trim which comes with plenty of leather in the cabin. The Laramie Longhorn trim is aimed at the cowboy types with its light-hued wood trim and saddle-colored leather. The Ram 3500 trims get plenty of real wood inside the cabin, based on trim chosen, as it is.

2018 Ram 3500 HD - interior

2018 Ram 3500 HD – Whole Power Unit

It is in the power train department that the 2018 Ram HD 3500 lineup gets the noteworthy upgrade. The 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel engine gets enhanced output. It generates 385 hp, aided by a new Aisin six-speed automatic transmission gearbox . Of course, buyers can opt for the lower end engine variants. The entry level engine makes an output of 350 hp, aided by a six-speed manual transmission gearbox.

The mid range one makes 370 hp and it gets clubbed with a six-speed automatic transmission unit. Diesel engine choice is also there in form of a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 unit and it generates 383 horsepower. There is another 6.4-liter Hemi V8 that makes 410 hp. Maximum rated towing capacity is 30,000 pounds- which is class leading.

Specifications:

FCA has improved the safety features and technologies used in the 2018 Ram 3500 HD lineup. The truck also gets laden with modern amenities, but this varies on trim.

2018 Ram 3500 HD - side

2018 Ram 3500 HD – Price and Availability

Finally, the 2018 Ram 3500 HD lineup pricing begins at $33,000. Top trim pricing can shot up a lot, based on customization. It will soon be made available for sale.

FCA has not made many changes to the 2018 Ram 3500 HD lineup, as it is. The exterior styling is same as 2017 lineup and cabin does not alter either. However, the change in power train is nice. With right pricing- it can pose a stiff challenge to revamped Ford Super Duty series.

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