The company didn’t change the HD truck lineup for a while. The latest refresh dates from 2021. There is no pressure on designers to do something about it since the focus is currently on smaller vehicles. For example, the all-new Ram 1200 has been spotted and it will take the position in the compact pickup segment. Meanwhile, the 2024 Ram 3500 arrives pretty much unchanged. The same cab configurations, engine options and most important – transmission will have another run.
There were rumors about the new gearbox for the heavy-duty segment. But, the 2024 Ram 3500 and Ram 2500 stick to the AISIN system. Allison transmission enhanced the performance of the Chevy Silverado HD. However, replacing the current version on Ram heavy-duty trucks requires more time and tests.
Since it is a carry-over, fans expect the price to stay put. With so many options, the MSRP ranges between $45,000 and $110,000. If you want the maximum towing capacity of 7000+ pounds, you’ll need a turbodiesel engine and a dual-rear-wheel configuration.
2024 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
A diesel engine is a favorite powerplant thanks to its great outputs. But, the base truck is equipped with a petrol unit. It is a 6.4-liter V8, but engineers are not squeezing the maximum power. We can find configurations producing 475 hp. But, for the Ram HD, it will be tuned to 410 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque. An 8-speed auto is a power router. The towing capacity is 17,500 pounds. This might seem impressive, but wait to see what the truck with an oil burner can do.
A 6.7-liter Cummins is delivering 370 hp and 850 lb-ft of torque by default. But, for the best towing capacity, you’ll need a few modifications. If you are after a high-output version, then count on 420 hp and 1,075 lb-ft of torque. The latest enhancements increased the towing capacity to 37,090 pounds. That is a new record, beating a previous one held by Chevy Silverado HD. However, your Ram 3500 will need further tuning, such as a dual-rear-wheel setup. Those numbers are unavailable for the Ram 2500 HD.
Regular Cab vs Mega Cab vs Crew Cab
Three cab configurations are available. It all starts with the Regular Cab and a long box for the Tradesman trim. There is also the Crew Cab with an 8’ or a 6’4’’ bed. Laramie adds Mega Cab, which is a $2,500 upgrade. Well, the price is not the same for all versions. On the Laramie Longhorn, you will pay only $1,500, while the Limited edition with Mega Cab will cost you $10,000 more than the Crew Cab.
Here are a few highlights of each trim level. The entry-level model comes with 18-inch steel wheels, vinyl seats, a tow hitch (class V) and a 5-inch infotainment screen. So, it is a working mule that will get the job done. Still, you will look for some upgrades. The Big Horn will switch steel for alloy wheels. Chromed details, upscale materials in the cabin and a trailer brake controller make this version way more attractive, especially since you don’t have to spend more than $5,000.
The 2024 Ram 3500 Laramie is a more serious investment. It will be $17,000 above the Big Horn (also called Lone Star in Texas). But, the list of extra features is pretty long. Leather seats with heating, a larger infotainment screen, premium audio, and parking sensors are just some of them. If you want even more impressive options, the Laramie Longhorn will bring bedliner, remote tailgate opening, LED lamps, even in bed, premium seats with ventilation, and advanced safety options. Only the Limited edition beats that but with some high-end gadgets and hi-tech accessories.
2024 Ram 3500 Dually Truck
With so many available options, it is easy to build a perfect truck for your needs. But, most truckers would trade all the advanced technology for a working mule, reliable and durable. The best the 2024 Ram 3500 can do is to tow up to 37,090 pounds. It is a class-leading result, mostly thanks to the high torque output. The system generates 1,075 lb-ft, 25 more than Ford F-350. Chevy Silverado HD still manages to tow 36,000 lbs with an engine that delivers “only” 910 pound-feet. But, that is thanks to the Allison transmission.
However, all those numbers are empty if the truck is not properly equipped. Heavyweight haulers are using dual-rear-wheel setups. The popular name for these vehicles is dually truck. The 2024 Ram 3500 is one of them. Of course, the best towing result also requires some other elements, but it all starts with a diesel engine.
Prices
The pricing of all HD trucks went up significantly over the past few years. The 2024 Ram 3500 won’t be under $45,000. We saw an unchanged 2023 model compared to its predecessor, but the price was $1,500 higher. The redesign of the HD lineup is expected after the 2025 YM.