2019 Ram 2500 Heavy Duty
Sometimes, a popular half-ton full-sized pickup truck is not enough.
However, a half-ton pickup can do so much, and are limited in what they can haul. There are truck customers that want more payload capacity for bigger jobs. They also want a larger towing capacity for bigger trailers. That means stepping up into a heavy-duty pickup.
A few months ago, Ram introduced their newest version of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ heavy-duty pickup truck. We had the opportunity to drive a new 2019 Ram 2500 Heavy Duty to see how these big trucks have improved over the previous version.
For 2019, the Ram Heavy Duty series rides on a beefier frame, yet it has shed 143 pounds on average from its curb weight. Ram is also touting an improved suspension with better ride quality integrating Frequency Response Damping, progressive spring rates, and re-engineered bushings.
Customers have two engine choices for the Ram 2500 Heavy Duty. Most likely, they will opt for the 6.7-liter Cummins turbocharged diesel in-line six-cylinder engine. This big diesel is still the best in the business. For the 2500, there is 850 pound-feet of torque available to move a maximum payload of 3,940 pounds and to tow up to 19,580 pounds. If you step up the Ram 3500, you can get the High Output version of the Cummins diesel with 1,000 pound-feet of torque. This is the highest torque rating among full-sized pickup trucks with a tow rating of up to 35,100 pounds.
With the Cummins diesel, we averaged 18.6 MPG. A six-speed automatic transmission was connected to the big diesel.
The configuration we had was the Mega Cab and 6.5-foot box with four-wheel-drive. The Mega Cab provides extra storage behind the rear seats without compromising seating space. Our pickup truck came in the Big Horn trim level, which is the most popular trim and the most attainable. The fabric seats were durable and comfortable at the same time.
Ram offers one of the best interiors among pickup trucks. This starts with a high level of quality materials, a customizable information screen in-between two dials that are easy to understand. Ram offers a multitude of screens providing every vehicle function from fuel economy to towing status. On the center stack, we had the 8.4-inch UConnect touch screen that has a lot of connection options, including on-board Wi-Fi. All of the controls are easy to use and good to the touch.
While we like the pulling power of the Cummins diesel engine, we also like the ride quality of the Ram 2500 Heavy Duty. This is the only heavy-duty pickup with multi-link suspension all around, which makes the difference when the truck is not loaded with anything. Under load, it does a good job keeping things balanced on the road.
The steering system offers a soft feel at the wheel, but a solid turning radius even when turning around a 250-inch pickup truck. The brakes are also good, though it may take longer to come to a complete stop. Pedal feel is good.
Saving the best for last is the exterior of the new Ram 2500 Heavy Duty. Following the new Ram 1500, each trim level has a distinct grille to tell one from the other. The Big Horn’s grille is large and full of chrome. They are flanked by a pair of halogen quad lamps with an LED running light on each one. The hood and front fenders are new, but the cab itself has not changed much. The box has been tweaked with new taillights and tailgate. The Mega Cab looks a bit awkward and could use a longer box to create more presence. Most customers opt for the shorter Crew Cab.
The Ram Heavy Duty lineup starts from $33,395. That is just for a 6.4-liter HEMI-powered basic Tradesman regular cab. To get this Cummins diesel-powered Mega Cab with the Big Horn trim and four-wheel drive, the sticker price climbs up to $68,605.
When you get into the heavy-duty pickup truck world, there are only a few competitors. You can choose from the Ford F-Series Super Duty, the Chevrolet Silverado HD, the GMC Sierra HD, and the Nissan Titan XD. All of these trucks offer a diesel engine.
If you are looking for more than just a pickup, especially one with more capacity and capability, the 2019 Ram 2500 Heavy Duty is a solid choice. It will do the job that you want it to do…and more!
Story Credits: CarSoup Editors
