Ram trucks have long been admired for their rugged capability, but it was clear that the previous configuration, especially the ZF transmission, couldn’t keep pace with competitors. When General Motors launched the all-new Allison gearbox for its heavy-duty trucks, many Ram enthusiasts hoped to see a similar pairing with their Cummins diesel engines. The 2025 Ram 2500 is poised to exceed those expectations, offering not only a new transmission but also a brand-new engine. Let’s dive into what these upgrades entail.
New Cummins Engine and Transmission
Stellantis continues its tradition of using Cummins engines in their heavy-duty trucks. The 2025 Ram 2500 is expected to be equipped with a refined 6.7-liter Cummins turbo-diesel engine. This engine will likely produce up to 420 horsepower and 1,075 lb-ft of torque, offering a significant boost in power over the current models.
This move aligns with Ram’s strategy to consolidate its diesel offerings, phasing out the standard output option in favor of a single, more powerful Cummins variant.
A key highlight of the 2025 Ram 2500 is the introduction of the ZF Powerline 8-speed automatic transmission, replacing the older 6-speed options. This transmission, designed specifically for heavy-duty applications, can handle up to 1,000 lb-ft of torque and is expected to improve both performance and fuel efficiency.
The advanced features of this transmission, such as intelligent power shifts and a dual-side Power Take-Off (PTO) interface, make it a formidable upgrade for serious towing and hauling tasks.
Exterior and Interior Enhancements
In addition to powertrain improvements, the 2025 Ram 2500 will undergo subtle yet significant exterior styling updates, drawing inspiration from the latest Ram 1500 models. Expect refreshed lighting elements, new wheel designs, and a modernized color palette that ensures the truck remains visually appealing.
Inside, the truck will feature a more sophisticated technological setup. The standard 8.4-inch touchscreen is being replaced with a larger 12.0-inch display, and an even more luxurious 14.5-inch screen will be available as an option.
The interior will also see enhancements in materials and finishes, particularly in higher trims like the Limited and Tungsten models, which will offer features such as quilted-leather upholstery and a high-end Klipsch stereo system.
Future of the V8 Petrol Engine
While the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 will remain available in the 2025 lineup, it may be phased out in future models as Ram shifts focus to more powerful and efficient diesel options.
The introduction of a new twin-turbocharged inline-six engine in the 1500 model, capable of producing up to 540 horsepower, hints at Ram’s future direction. However, it is unlikely that this six-cylinder engine will replace the V8 in heavy-duty models just yet.
Pricing and Expectations
Given the extensive updates, a price increase is anticipated for the 2025 Ram 2500. The new Cummins engine and ZF transmission will likely command a premium, though Stellantis will need to be careful with pricing as the competition remains fierce, with similar offerings from Ford and General Motors.
The base model is expected to start around $45,000, but prices could climb significantly with added options and higher trims.
