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2021 Ram 2500 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
6 photos

Ram 2500 highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • Excellent torque and towing capacity from available diesel engine
  • Upscale materials and design on higher trim levels
  • Comfortable seats and quiet cabin
  • Lots of impressive technology features and driver aids

Cons

  • Optional diesel engine makes an unpleasant noise and vibration
  • Some drivers may find the driving position too high

Mileage (EPA estimate)

(data not available)

Pricing for current inventory

From $35,998*

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2021 Ram 2500 carries on capably

The 2021 Ram 2500 (formerly called the Dodge Ram 2500) combines heavy-duty capability with an upscale interior and advanced technology features. In its higher trim levels, the Ram impresses with its driver aids, plush materials, and big touchscreen. But the bread and butter of HD trucks is their larger towing and hauling numbers, and while the Ram 2500 isn’t at the top of its class, its maximum payload capacity of around 4,000 pounds and maximum trailer towing capacity of around 20,000 pounds when properly equipped are more than enough to tackle most jobs. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories. There are only a few downsides to the Ram 2500, including the optional diesel engine’s noise level and a driving position that will feel a little too high for some drivers.

For 2021, the Ram 2500 gets an optional camera-based rearview mirror, but not much else has changed. Otherwise, the Ram continues on with the same choice of two massive engines–a gas V8 and turbocharged six-cylinder diesel–and the option of either an 8-foot or 6-foot 4-inch bed. You’ll also find the same seven trim levels, from the no-nonsense Tradesman to the fully loaded Limited model. And, for shoppers looking for more adventure, there’s always the off-road-specific Power Wagon.

All Ram 2500 years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Ram 2500 generation from 2012 to 2026

What is new for the 2021 Ram 2500?

  • Enhanced safety features including advanced driver-assistance systems now standard across all models.
  • Upgraded infotainment system with larger touchscreen and improved connectivity options.
  • New engine option available, providing better fuel efficiency and performance.
  • Standard warranty extended to 5 years/60,000 miles for added peace of mind.

2021 Ram 2500 trims

Curious how Ram 2500 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Tradesman:

  • 370-hp, 850-lb-ft of torque 6.7L
  • 410-hp, 429-lb-ft of torque 6.4L
  • Cruise Control
  • Vinyl Seats
  • Power Mirrors
  • Traction Control
  • Side Airbags
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Rear View Camera
  • Smart Key
  • View our Ram 2500 Tradesman inventory

Bighorn:

Lonestar:

  • Includes all features available on the Bighorn
  • Rear Air Conditioning
  • Rear Defroster
  • Third Row Seat
  • Power Seats
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Fold-Away Third Row
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Parking Sensors
  • View our Ram 2500 Lonestar inventory

Laramie:

Longhorn:

Limited:

Power Wagon:

Ram 2500 photos

What We Like

Strong engine choices: The Ram 2500 offers two engines to choose from, depending on your needs. The standard gasoline V8 makes 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, but for maximum towing power you’ll want the optional turbocharged diesel engine and its massive 850 lb-ft of torque.

Some competitors offer more power, but the Ram has plenty for most real-world tasks.

Excellent comfort: The Ram 2500 has about as refined a ride as you can find in a heavy-duty truck. It’s noticeably less bumpy and quieter on the freeway than its competitors, unless you opt for the diesel engine. The Ram’s front seats are built for the long haul, and in higher trims the cabin features plenty of upscale materials. If comfort is a priority, the Ram is definitely worth considering.

Impressive tech features: The Ram 2500 offers plenty of thoroughly modern tech options. The infotainment can be upgraded with wireless phone charging and an expansive 12.3-inch touchscreen. A full suite of advanced driver aids are also available, including blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.

What needs improvement

Diesel engine noise: The Ram 2500’s optional diesel engine is a significant upgrade to the truck’s capability, but it comes with a downside. The rough sound of the diesel engine is very audible in the otherwise quiet cabin, especially running at freeway speeds. If you’re not planning on doing heavy towing, the standard gas engine may be more pleasant to live with.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.6 out of 5

5 customer reviews
The 2021 Ram 2500 offers impressive power and towing capabilities, enhanced by a spacious and technologically advanced interior. Ride quality often splits opinion, with some finding it stiff, while fuel economy is a noted downside. Cabin noise levels and styling also receive praise, contributing to its appeal for heavy-duty truck buyers.

RepairPal reliability rating

3
Average

RepairPal gave the Ram 2500 an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks Ram 2500 12th out of 19 among Fullsize Trucks.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Ram 2500

Ram 2500 features and specs

Curious how Ram 2500 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Tradesman 2D Regular Cab 2WD

Standard Features

  • Power Windows
  • Cruise Control
  • ABS Brakes
  • Rear View Camera
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Side Airbags
  • Vinyl Seats
  • Traction Control
  • Air Conditioning
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Locks
  • Tow Hitch
  • Automatic Transmission
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology

Optional Features

  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Parking Sensors
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Cloth Seats
  • Rear Defroster
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Running Boards
  • Gooseneck Tow Hitch
  • Bed Liner
  • Bed Cover
  • Long Bed
  • Tow Hitch
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • Fifth Wheel Tow Hitch
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Navigation System

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

6.4L

Horsepower

410

Torque (ft-lbs)

429

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

32

Wheelbase

140.5"

Overall length

232"

Width

79.4"

Height

78"

Leg room

F 40.9"

Head room

F 39.8"

Front tires

LT245/70SR17

Rear tires

LT245/70SR17

Seating capacity

3

Max towing capacity

1504/15040 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2021 Ram 2500 FAQ

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