It’s 2020, which means ten years have passed since the rebranding of Dodge Ram trucks to the more simplified Ram moniker. That doesn’t mean there’s been anything simple about the trucks Ram has been putting out in the last decade, though. If anything, Ram trucks have become even more popular and dependable than ever before. This year we see the new 2020 Ram 1500, 2020 Ram 2500, and 2020 Ram 3500, all available at your local Ram dealership.
2020 Ram 1500
The 2020 Ram 1500 has a starting MSRP of $32,145. For full-size pickups, this may seem a little high, especially when compared to offerings from Ford and Chevy. However, Ram is known to give its trucks a wide variety of options and features to make their models all the more appealing.
This year’s Ram 1500 comes in six different trim levels, allowing for plenty of customization for those interested. You have the Ram 1500 Tradesman ($32,145), Big Horn ($36,790), Laramie ($40,890), Rebel ($44,740), Laramie Longhorn ($51,640), and Limited ($53,915).
Available engines include the standard 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine with an output of 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. With this engine, your maximum towing capacity is 7,730 lbs. There’s also the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine with an output of 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. With this engine, your maximum towing capacity is 11,610 lbs, although if you opt for the eTorque Mild Hybrid System, you’ll get up to 12,750 lbs. If you’re in need of something unique and powerful, the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine might be right up your alley. With an output of 260 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, this engine has a maximum towing capacity of 12,560 lbs.
Since towing and hauling are big priorities for Ram enthusiasts, it’s important to note that Ram trucks come with the available multifunction tailgate. It’s easy to get in and out of the truck bed when your tailgate conforms to your needs, whether that’s opening one side, both, or the whole thing. And when the tailgate is down, it can still hold up to 2,100 lbs depending on the trim.
The available RamBox Cargo Management System makes extra storage a breeze. It’s weatherproof, lockable, and illuminated. Plus, you can drain it if you need to. The RamBox is available on both sides of the bed and comes with 115-volt outlets for easily accessible charging of tools or toys.
2020 Ram 2500
The Ram Heavy Duty is the MotorTrend truck of the year, right after the Ram 1500 won in 2019. It’s not really a surprise since these Ram trucks are being built to deal with whatever you can throw their way, from hard work to adventure.
The Ram 2500 comes with similar trims to the Ram 1500, with the exception of the Power Wagon’s inclusion. You have the Ram 2500 Tradesman ($33,745), Big Horn ($37,995), Laramie ($49,450), Power Wagon ($53,450), Laramie Longhorn ($56,850), and Limited ($61,650).
With two very powerful engine options, you’ll have no problem towing or hauling heavy loads. The 6.4L HEMI V8 engine has an output of 410 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque. It can tow up to 17,540 lbs and has a maximum payload of 4,010 lbs. If you’re looking for some extra towing power, the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 engine might be a good look for you. It has an output of 370 hp and 850 lb-ft of torque, with a maximum towing capacity of 19,680 lbs and a maximum payload of 3,160 lbs.
The 2020 Ram 2500 Power Wagon model is an ideal vehicle for those that need a heavy-duty pickup with off-road capabilities. With a 12,000-pound winch, Bilstein gas-charged shocks, locking differentials, and a front sway bar––you’re ready to tackle some tough terrain.
2020 Ram 3500
Included within the Ram heavy-duty segment is, of course, the Ram 3500. The 2020 Ram 3500 trims are the same as the Ram 2500, minus the Power Wagon model. Instead, you have the Ram 3500 Tradesman ($35,195), Big Horn ($39,445), Laramie ($50,800), Laramie Longhorn ($58,200), and Limited ($63,000).
Unlike the Ram 2500 models, the Ram 3500 comes with three engine options. Your standard option will be the 6.4L HEMI V8 engine with an output of 410 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque. With this engine equipped, your maximum towing capacity is up to 18,210 lbs, and the maximum payload is up to 7,680 lbs. The next engine is the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 engine with an output of 370 hp and 850 lb-ft of torque. This engine gives you a maximum towing capacity of up to 22,670 lbs and a maximum payload of up to 6,840 lbs. Arguably the most impressive engine, though, is the 6.7L High-Output Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 engine with an output of 400 hp and 1,000 lb-ft of torque. With this engine equipped, your maximum towing capacity is up to 35,100 lbs, and your maximum payload is up to 6,570 lbs.
Safety Features
All Ram trucks come equipped with and have the availability for many different safety features. These features may come in the form of driver-assistive technologies or specific trailering technologies. Either way, they’re designed to help you have a more safe and comfortable ride in your Ram truck.
The 2020 Ram 1500 has available Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path and Trailer Detection to take the stress out of towing. There’s also the availability of Lane Departure Warning-Plus, Adaptive Cruise Control, Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist, and more. The available 360-degree Surround View Camera helps you to see all around the vehicle, which could be valuable for many reasons. You can avoid damage from objects, park your truck easier, and hook up a trailer a lot more efficiently.
Both the 2020 Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 have similar features available. This includes the Adaptive Forward Lighting System, Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Blind Spot Monitoring system with Rear Cross Path Detection.
Customize One For You
With three great lines to choose from and numerous options for customization, it’s up to you to decide on which Ram truck would be best suited for your situation. Between the light-duty and heavy-duty options, there’s plenty of power, performance, and capability to get the job done. If you want something for off-roading as well, the Ram 1500 Rebel and Ram 2500 Power Wagon models could be the right fit for you. But, of course, if you need the most powerful configurations, you’d have to go with a Ram 3500.
Just remember, even though these are big, powerful machines, they still have plenty of convenience and luxury features attached to them. You’ll still be riding in comfort with the latest technology available to you. This includes the availability of a 12-inch touchscreen, premium audio system from Harman Kardon, and 100% leather seats. If you still think this sounds like your average truck, you need to get down to your local Ram dealership and try one out for yourself.
