2022 Ram 2500

The current Ram 2500, the fifth-generation full-sized heavy-duty pickup from Ram, has put up with a lot of competition from the Ford F-series camp in the USA over the years. With light- and heavy-duty trucks remaining popular in the States, Ram responded to the recent F-250 redesign as a call to arms and introduced an all-new model in 2019 to better compete with its rival. For 2022, a few tweaks have been made to an already excellent product, which has truly managed to stare down the Ford F-250 Super Duty as well as the GMC Sierra 2500. With three cab styles - Regular, Crew Cab, and Mega Cab - the Ram 2500 can also be had with a 6'4'' short box (SB) or an eight-foot-long box (LB), and while a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 is standard, the optional Cummins turbodiesel six-cylinder ups the available torque from 429 lb-ft of torque as standard to a hefty 850 lb-ft, which allows for an excellent towing capacity of 20,000 pounds. The Ram 2500 is easily the best three-quarter-ton truck currently on the market, offering a sweet ride and a gorgeous interior, without compromising on the expected levels of capability.

A bold Ram logo is centered in the grille face and the headlights borrowed from its little brother, the 1500, flare out on each side, giving the front end a bullish appearance. Still, there are definite SUV influences in the exterior design, making this a much better-looking vehicle than the likes of the GMC Sierra or Ford's F-250. The exterior of each trim level also has its own unique look, with entry-level models heavily plastered with steel and black plastic, while top-end models get the chrome treatment. Entry-spec models ride on 17-inch steel wheels, while mid-range versions get 18-inch units. An upgrade to 20-inch alloy wheels can be had on high-end trims, too. Two bed lengths - 8' or 6'4" - can be paired to the Crew Cab, while Regular Cabs come with the eight-foot box, and Mega Cabs with the smaller bed. A single-pane sunroof is optional to all four-door trims but the base model.

With so many available configurations, exterior dimensions vary across the range for the 2022 Ram 2500. Regular Cab models come only with an eight-foot box and have an overall length of 232 inches. For these models, the wheelbase comes in at 140.5 inches. Ground clearance is 13 inches or 13.1 inches for 4x4 variants. Width is 83.5 inches in this configuration, and height varies between 78 inches and 80.2, depending on the drivetrain.

Crew Cab variants can be had in either box length. With the shorter 6'4" box, the wheelbase is 149 inches and length is 238.8 in. These grow to 169 inches and 260.8 with the 8' box selected. Ground clearance ranges from 11.1 inches to 13.1, with either 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrains selected. Height maxes out at 80.2 inches. The Power Wagon variant shares the same dimensions, although it is slightly taller at 80.9 inches, and boasts a ground clearance of 14.2 inches.

The Mega Cab style is available only with the smaller box length, resulting in a 160.4-inch wheelbase and a total length just a smidgeon under 250 inches. Height and ground clearance are 80.1 inches and 13.1 inches, respectively.

The base weight across the range starts at 5,988 pounds for the entry-level model, and tops out at 8,069 lbs for the heaviest trim.

The palette for 2022 comprises a wide array of colors; however, color choices are trim specific, with some shades not available, or alternatively, exclusive to, various trim levels. To further complicate things, there are twenty additional limited-availability colors to choose from, too. Some highlights from the standard palette include Flame Red and Bright White (at no cost), while Patriot Blue Pearl, Olive Green, and Granite Crystal Metallic can be had at additional cost (ranging in price from $100 to $200). Harvest Sunrise has been newly added this year. There are also several options for a two-tone exterior, including Flame Red/Billet Silver Metallic, Diamond Black Crystal Pearl/Billet Silver Metallic, and Bright White/Billet Silver Metallic. The low volume exterior color choices require a $450 outlay, but will give you access to the likes of Utility Orange, New Holland Blue, or Detonator Yellow.

The engine options from last year carry over for this model year, namely a 6.4-liter V8 with outputs of 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque as standard, or a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel inline-six with 370 hp and 850 lb-ft. Buyers can choose between 4x2 and 4x4 for most trims - only the Power Wagon is 4x4 exclusively as is any trim optioned with the Mega Cab body. Trucks are hardly expected to offer smooth engines that purr in refinement, and heavy-duty haulers such as this are designed to be efficient, functional and hard-working, with the capability to perform - not in terms of acceleration, but in terms of powerful hauling and carrying. As such, the Ram 2500 is pretty damn good. Towing up to 20,000 pounds is possible with the turbodiesel engine and the correct towing attachments, besting the GMC Sierra 2500 HD, but not quite managing the 22,800 lbs of the Ford F-250. Even the default powertrain can manage in excess of 17,500 lbs. Although the 2022 models have not yet been run through acceleration tests, the 2019 model in Regular Cab Tradesman configuration with the turbodiesel engine managed the 0-60 mph trial in 7.2 seconds - marginally better performance than its Ford Super Duty rival.

Equipped as standard to all models is a heavy-duty 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine that produces 410 hp and 429 lb-ft, paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. All models, with the exception of the Power Wagon, can be optioned with a 370-hp and 850-lb-ft 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel inline-six. This monster engine gets an automatic six-speed transmission. While the default power plant is optimized for efficiency (as far as is possible for an engine that works this hard), the turbodiesel is aimed at maximum towing and payload-carrying capabilities. The result is that the V8 engine is slightly smoother and more pleasant for day-to-day driving, allowing for impressive-for-a-truck acceleration and overtaking in town or on the highway. The rougher, gruffer diesel motor isn't there to impress or charm - it comes to work with hoarse-toned determination and, although the six-shifter isn't the best, it ultimately does what you ask it to do.

Carrying over from 2019's substantial upgrade, the five-link rear coil springs and the frequency-response dampers have added immense value in one critical area: comfort. Big trucks are designed more for functionality and to work hard, so it makes a nice change to tangibly feel an improved ride quality and better handling, whether or not the cargo box is filled to the brim. In many comparisons with competitors such as GMC's Sierra or Ford's F-250, the Ram 2500 truck provides a much smoother ride with better road-holding and a confidence-inspiring sense of gravity. It also does really well in terms of isolating the cabin from rougher road surfaces. The Power Wagon trim is worth a special mention for its added off-roading prowess, and is exclusively available in 4x4 configuration with more than 14 inches of ground clearance. As further testament to Ram's commitment to passenger contentment, there is also optional air suspension which can be fitted to 4x4 models to further enhance comfort levels.

Steering is light for the express purpose of making it easy to maneuver this large lump around, and it does so admirably in low-speed settings. At higher speeds and on the highway, there's a rather numb sense to the wheel, but it tracks straight and responds to input, albeit a little slowly.

Like all heavy-duty haulers, the new Ram 2500 isn't rated by the EPA, and pinning down an exact figure for gas mileage is almost impossible. Buyers of a car like this have varying uses for these trucks, and, depending on what you do with it daily, and how you drive it, your fuel economy estimates can vary greatly. Owners of Ram 2500 trucks report that the 6.4 liter V8 manages anywhere between 13 and 14 mpg combined, while the bigger diesel motor can achieve upwards of 15 mpg. The standard fuel tank size is either 28, 31, or 32 gallons depending on the engine and body style. With the V8 gas engine and the 31-gallon tank, the range won't be much more than 434 miles. Additionally, Crew Cab variants set up with the eight-foot bed can have a 50-gallon fuel tank optioned on, which will substantially improve the distance between fill-ups.

In all our reviews, Ram's latest trucks have impressed us with their cabins. Characterized by space and high-quality fit and finish, the interior of the Ram 2500 is also surprisingly plush. The cabin is well-insulated and effectively protected from too much road noise. Although the steering column only boasts tilt adjustment, the power-adjustable pedals mean that finding a good position as the driver is not a chore. The overall impression in the cabin is ergonomic, practical, and yet allowing for comfort and convenience too, with models near the top of the range fitted with leather upholstery and real wood accents that make for a pleasing sense of occasion. Varying cabin styles also mean you have the choice of seating only two in base form or a maximum of six occupants with the Crew Cab configuration. As for the Mega Cab, it's simply huge, and no one will be left wanting for additional space.

One of the positives of having a broad range of models with various configurations and body styles is the resulting versatility that allows you to customize your cabin space to your needs. Base models in regular cab configuration seat two as standard, with the option of upgrading to a three-seater bench up front. Choosing to seat three-across in no way diminishes available space, though, and head and shoulder room remain ample. Crew Cab and Mega Cab versions can seat five or six occupants, depending on whether you opt for a bench in front or not. Mega Cab models have additional storage space behind the rear seats. Space remains readily available, no matter what configuration you choose, and the tallest, bulkiest of linebackers will easily fit three abreast in the rear. Despite being a large vehicle, getting in and out is not too hard, thanks to grab handles and optional running boards.

The most basic Ram 2500 model comes with a Black/Diesel Gray interior and heavy-duty gray vinyl as standard, although black cloth can be applied optionally. One model up, the Big Horn allows for premium cloth bucket seats or bench seating in Diesel Gray, Light Mountain Brown or combination black and Frost Beige. The Power Wagon trim features cloth with unique embossed tread pattern as standard, with leather optional. The Laramie trim steps up the luxury offerings with standard leather trim and interior colors in either Mountain Brown/Light Frost Beige or Black. The top-end Limited trim can be had with black leather, or an Indigo and Frost leather duo.

As the crux of the matter with trucks pertains to their ability to haul your goods around, load box size and cargo space is paramount. And, with numerous available configurations, there's a whole range of figures to pay attention to. The shorter 6'4" bed's specs include a length of 76.3 inches and a width of 66.4 inches, and, at a hair's breadth over 20 inches in depth, translates to a total of 57.5 cubic feet of cargo-carrying capacity. On the eight-foot box, the length is 98.3 inches, providing a grand total of 74.7 cubes for cargo. Depending on power- and drive-train, as well as your chosen body style, the Ram 2500 can carry up to 4,380 pounds worth of payload on the back.

The Ram's commodious cabin is not just about spacious head and legroom, offering considerate nooks and crannies for small items throughout. The center console bin is large and can hold your files, notebook computer, or lunchbox, and Mega Cab models provide two additional boxes behind the rear seats for safe storage of larger items.

The RamBox Cargo Management System is also available, which consists of dual storage bins inside the length of the load bed. These useful, lockable cubbies are also drainable and feature LED lighting, a 115-volt outlet, and even remote access, enhancing the utility of the Ram 2500 even further.

The base price of the Tradesman model doesn't get you too much, featuring the bare essentials such as manual air conditioning, cruise control, push-button start, and rear vents to channel cool air to the back. The Laramie trim upgrades to dual-zone climate control. All four-door models, barring the entry-spec Tradesman, can have a single-pane power sunroof installed optionally. As standard, all trucks in the range have a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines and zoom functionality, while a surround-view camera can be optioned on. Blind-spot monitoring is standard on the top trim but can be added to all trims, too. Front and rear parking sensors are standard from the Power Wagon trim level upwards, and although rear sensors aren't available to the Tradesman, they can be had on the Big Horn variant additionally. Luxuries such as heated front seats only come into play from the Laramie and Limited Longhorn variants.

Standard fare in terms of infotainment on the entry-spec Tradesman is also quite basic, with a five-inch touchscreen display off which the Uconnect 3 system runs. This is paired to a four-speaker sound system on the Regular Cab (six speakers on other body styles), and comes standard with integrated voice commands, Bluetooth, two USB ports and an auxiliary jack input up front, and a few more USB charging ports in the rear. This year, all trims from the Big Horn and up offer a larger 8.4-inch display with the new Uconnect 5 software; it looks less dwarfed in the massive cabin of the Ram 2500. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard from this trim, as are SiriusXM, Wi-Fi capability, and various subscriptions to radio, traffic, and travel interfaces. The Laramie gains a ten-speaker Alpine sound system featuring a subwoofer. The Power Wagon keeps the upgraded Uconnect 5 system and large screen, but only has a total of six speakers. The Limited Longhorn equips the premium Alpine system and adds GPS navigation and HD Radio. The top-end Limited gets the best in the range, sporting a 12-inch display with navigation, which can be added to all but the base model as a standalone add-on, or as part of an equipment package.

Unfortunately, the Ram 2500 hasn't been blemish-free in this area. The 2020 model suffered no fewer than five recalls, including problems with the rearview camera's images, a transmission-fluid leak, a failing bed step and fuel pump, and a driver's-side mirror of which the glass may separate. The 2021 model has had three recalls, including a curtain airbag that may not deploy properly, and electrical and relay shorts that may cause fire risks. It seems that things have improved as, at the time of writing, the 2022 model was not yet subject to any recalls. In J.D. Power's rating, the 2022 Ram 2500 registered a total score of 80 out of 100 with a specific quality and reliability rating of 86/100. Comprehensive warranties are offered for five years or 60,000 miles for the gas powertrain, while the diesel engine gets five-year/100,000-mile coverage. A three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty is included.

The NHTSA's Ram 2500 crashworthiness review revealed reasonable but not perfect results. It attained a four-star overall safety rating with four stars for the frontal crash, the maximum five stars for the side crash, and four stars for the side crash. The Regular Cab was only evaluated for the rollover test (four stars for the 4x2 and three stars for the 4x4). The same three-star rollover score applies to the Mega Cab 4x4.

Six airbags are standard across all models, configurations and cab sizes, as well as a rearview camera with dynamic gridlines, centerlines, and a zoom function. This can be optionally enhanced for all models by fitting a tow-mode camera. There is also an available cargo-view camera, forward collision mitigation, lane keep assist, and adaptive steering, all spread across various optional packages. Furthermore, blind-spot monitoring with conventional trailer coverage and rear cross-path detection (which is standard only on the Limited trim) can be optioned on across the range. Front and rear park sensors are fitted to the Power Wagon, Laramie, Limited Longhorn, and Limited off the factory floor. The Big Horn edition can be equipped with these as part of a package, but the base model can only be had with rear sensors optionally.

The current generation of the Ram 2500 seemed to have been a call to arms for the manufacturer when it was launched; striving to best rivals like the Ford F-250 and GMC's Sierra 2500, Ram has truly come out with guns blazing. Not only does the Ram 2500 provide towing capacities right up there with some of the greats as well as superior acceleration figures, but it offers a cabin that is far removed from the gritty, tough-as-nails functionality of the workhorse that it is. Plush leather, premium audio equipment, large infotainment displays, and pretty impressive fuel economy from the diesel engine, make for a really convincing package overall. While the Ford Super Duty remains popular in the US on the sheer braggadocio of its best-seller status, we have no doubt that the Ram 2500 can easily deliver a knock-out punch, given the chance.

The very basic Tradesman has an MSRP of $37,050 in 4x2 configuration with the Regular Cab and eight-foot bed. Choosing the Crew Cab configuration will cost you $40,670 with the smaller bed, or $40,870 for the longer bed. $2,930 buys you the upgrade to 4x4 across the range. Big Horn and Lone Star models start at $41,170 with the Regular Cab and 4x2, and top out at $50,145 for the Mega Cab with 4x4.

The mid-range trims begin with the Laramie which carries a starting MSRP of $52,020 for the 4x2 Crew Cab with the 6'4" box, while $200 on top of that gives you the eight-foot box. The Mega Cab can only be had in 4x4 guise and has a sticker price of $56,460. The unique Power Wagon can only be had in one configuration - the Crew Cab with the 6'4" box and 4x4, and is priced at $56,790.

Second from the top, the Limited Longhorn's cheapest configuration costs $60,320, while the most expensive 4x4 with the Mega Cab body costs $64,765. Finally, the top-spec Limited has a starting price of $64,985 with the Crew Cab and shorter bed length, while the Mega Cab variant will set you back $69,730. For all models other than the Power Wagon, the 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine can be equipped for an additional $9,400.

The price of the Ram 2500 excludes licensing, registration and other sundries, as well as a destination charge of $1,795 in the US.

The 2022 Ram 2500 comprises seven trims: Tradesman, Big Horn, Lone Star, Laramie, Power Wagon, Limited Longhorn, and Limited. A 410-hp 6.4-liter Hemi V8 gas engine is standard on all trims with a 370-hp 6.7-liter Cummins six-cylinder diesel optional on all trims but the Power Wagon. Rear-wheel drive is standard on all trims with 4WD optional, except on the Power Wagon, which can only be had with 4WD.

The Tradesman has automatic halogen headlights, 17-inch steel wheels, and a black grille and bumpers. On the inside, it has vinyl upholstery, vinyl/rubber flooring, a four-way manually adjustable driver's seat, manual air-conditioning with an air filter, manual windows and door locks, cruise control, push-button start, cupholders, a compass, and a manually tilting/telescoping urethane steering wheel. The Uconnect 3 infotainment system has a five-inch touchscreen and includes Bluetooth, several USB ports, and auxiliary input jack, SiriusXM Guardian, and a four-speaker audio system on the Regular Cab (six speakers on the other cabs). Standard safety kit includes six airbags, stability control, hill-start assist, a backup camera, trailer-sway control, and tire-pressure monitoring.

The Big Horn and Lone Star are essentially the same, but the latter is only available in Texas and has some unique exterior chrome trim and Lone Star badging. In terms of their general appearance, they add 18-inch steel wheels, a black grille with a chrome surround, remotely activated approach lights, powered and heated exterior mirrors with integral turn signals, and chrome bumpers. Inside, added features include cloth upholstery, carpeting, power door locks and windows, remote keyless entry, and an illuminated passenger vanity mirror. The infotainment system is upgraded to an 8.4-inch Uconnect 5 system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi capability, SiriusXM Radio, and connected services.

The Laramie additionally gets LEDs for its headlights, daytime running lights, fog lights, and brake lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, deep-tinted windows, and a chrome grille. Inside, it has dual-zone automatic climate control, remote engine start, three 120-volt AC power outlets, an eight-way electrically adjustable and heated front seats, an overhead storage console, a garage-door opener, power-adjustable pedals, an illuminated driver's vanity mirror, leatherette/suede upholstery, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and a ten-speaker Alpine audio system.

The Power Wagon trim is based on the Big Horn / Lone Star but is tailored for off-road ability, being available only in a Crew Cab with the short bed, standard 4x4, 17-inch alloy wheels, a black grille, black bumpers, a disconnectable front sway bar, front and rear axle lockers, rough-terrain suspension, a 12,000-pound winch, and a ground clearance increased to 14.2 inches. The diesel engine is not available for this trim.

Limited Longhorn is next and compared to the Laramie, it adds bi-function projector LED headlights, LED bed lighting, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, driver's seat memory, a leather/wood steering wheel, HD Radio, voice-activated navigation, automatic high beams, and rain-sensing wipers. It can only be had in Crew Cab with the short or long bed or in Mega Cab with the short bed.

Limited is the top trim and is available in the same body configurations as the Limited Longhorn. As the flagship, it adds 20-inch alloy wheels, power-deployable running boards, model-specific front bucket seats in unique color schemes, a 12-inch infotainment screen with navigation, and blind-spot monitoring.

Depending on trim level, upgrades can be made and accessories added by means of standalone add-ons or available packages. With so many options, pricing can fluctuate dramatically so it's important to exercise some restraint. For the Tradesman, packages range from Chrome Appearance Group enhancements for $1,095, to the Level 1 Equipment Group on the Regular Cab (including additional interior storage, upgraded door trim panels, remote keyless entry, heated and powered mirrors and windows) for $1,045. The Safety Group package costs $2,890 and adds adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beams, blind-spot detection, and forward-collision warning.

On the Big Horn, heated seats can be added together with a heated steering wheel and steering mounted controls for $445, while LED exterior lighting can be equipped at $795. The comprehensive Level C Equipment Group for $4,195 adds 18-inch polished wheels, a heated steering wheel and front seats, front/rear park assist, remote start, power-adjustable pedals, and much more. Only available on the Big Horn / Lone Star is the new $2,000 Silver Edition package that adds extra chrome on the exterior trim, 20-inch alloy wheels, and black accents to the interior. The mid-spec Laramie gets access to much of the same. It's worth noting the Night Edition package which adds black 20-inch wheels, and blacked-out exterior trim like the grille and mirrors - it costs $2,595 on the Laramie. The Power Wagon, Limited Longhorn, and Limited get their own versions of these same packages. Fifth wheel/gooseneck towing prep costs $545 on all trims, while a 50-gallon fuel tank can be equipped to compatible trims for $295.

Generally speaking, there are two possible reasons for buying a heavy-duty truck: one, you need a workhorse to tow monstrous earth-moving equipment, horseboxes, or small houses; and two, you want the swagger of a badass truck to impress (intimidate?) people with. Depending on which of these reasons apply to you, we'd advise opting for at least the Laramie or Limited Longhorn trim. The Laramie has the basics needed to keep you comfortable and safe (with available options to add on if you want to), while still able to tow and haul the maximum - keep the stock 6.4-liter engine, add on the fifth-wheel hitch for $545 and you have yourselves a hard laborer. If your reasons for wanting a truck is the second option mentioned above, you'll have to opt for the Limited Longhorn version to get the most out of its luxury, convenience and technological advances. It's worth a mention that if your truck will regularly be traversing rough terrain or going off-road, the Power Wagon can be similarly outfitted as the higher-spec trims, but with the benefit of better rough-housing capabilities.

The baby brother to the Ram 2500 is also the donor from which many of the 2500 underpinnings stem. It seems an unlikely comparison, as the 1500 is lighter in weight and capability, but for many, it will remain a valid question: is it worth forking out the extra cash for the 2500? The Ram 1500 is a fine truck in and of itself, with all the same cargo capacities in terms of box length. It's naturally less bulky, and - as the names imply - one is for heavy-duty work while the other functions much better as a lifestyle vehicle that can be used for the occasional move, haul, or tow. The 2500 is focused on carrying and hauling heavy items, and with both vehicles offering the same list of features, it really boils down to what you need from your truck. The 1500 offers better fuel economy, too, but cannot compare to the brute strength of its bigger, badder sibling.

The rivalry between Ram 2500 and Ford F-250 Super Duty is as American as the names of the Ram trucks themselves. While the Ford Super Duty continues to lead the pack in terms of sales and popularity, it is rapidly losing ground against the Ram truck that is now nipping at its heels in terms of pure power and capability - however, the Ford offers much more torque and a far greater towing capacity - while the Ram manages 20,000 pounds, you get nearly 23,000 lbs from the Blue Oval now. Besides available muscle, the Ram 2500 has also come to the party in a much nicer outfit, looking smart both inside and out - the interior is sublime for a truck, with fine leather at the top end of the spectrum. The Ford tries hard to keep up, but Ram has outdone itself in putting together a premium cabin and a no-nonsense powertrain. If we had to pick one, we'd opt for the Ram.