Changes in the heavy-duty segment are not so frequent. The 2021 Ram 2500 is relatively new, with the latest generation debuted last year. So, the upcoming truck won’t receive any notable updates. At least cosmetically. On the other hand, experts are pointing out the biggest downside of the HD lineup – the AISIN transmission. Ram is losing a lot compared to Allison, so the upgrade is the priority. Will the FCA replace the gearbox, or AISIN is going to make improvements, we will see after next season.
The 2021 Ram 2500 is not as capable as the Ram 3500. However, it offers most options like the Series 3 truck, except the dual rear wheel configuration. Plus, the Power Wagon is the exclusive trim level for Series 2. It is the most capable off-road model in the HD segment, at least until Ford launches the Raptor version of F-250.
2021 Ram 2500 Specs
Under the hood of the 2021 Ram 2500 is a petrol engine. A 6.4-liter Hemi unit is good for 410 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. We can see this powerplant in other models by the FCA. An eight-speed gearbox is a power router and Ram 2500 is available with 4×2 and 4×4 drives.
A more popular configuration combines a turbodiesel engine and a six-speed auto transmission. A 6.7-liter inline-six is developed by Cummins. Like said, the AISIN gearbox is out of date and it will be replaced soon if FCA wants to stay competitive. For the Series 2 truck, the configuration is tuned for 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque. If you want more, Ram 3500 can make 400 hp, 1,000 pound-feet, and 35,000 pounds of towing capacity.
2021 Ram 2500 Power Wagon
Like every Ram truck, the HD segment offer starts with the Tradesman version. Big Horn is a nice upgrade, while you must add $12,000 more to get it to the Laramie trim. Between this one and premium Longhorn and Limited editions, there is a unique package. The 2021 Ram 2500 Power Wagon is equipped for tough off-road tasks. It comes with the same engine options, but a 4×4 is standard, as well as the Crew Cab.
The truck is lifted and offers 14 inches of ground clearance thanks to the Goodyear Wrangler Duratec tires. 17-inch wheels are standard and the truck can dive up to 30 inches of water. The interior is modern, while the Power Wagon graphics are the highlight of the exterior. The downsides of this package are limited towing capacity and extremely high fuel economy.
Prices
Since there are no changes, we see no reasons for the price update. That means the Tradesman starts at $34,000, or $37k if you want a four-wheel drive. Big Horn stays under $40,000 with Regular Cab. Laramie will cut this configuration to replace it with Crew Cab. Mega Cab makes the price go over $50,000. Power Wagon costs $53,500 and only two more expensive versions are Longhorn based on Laramie trim, and Limited. We can also expect a few special editions and packages for certain trim levels.