Whenever an automaker delays a significant redesign of its vehicles, it tends to make its fans anxious. This has been the case for heavy-duty Ram truck owners, whose trucks have seen minimal changes for over a decade. While Ram 2500 and 3500 models have received upgrades like a stronger fully boxed frame, larger rear axles, and a new 1,000 lb-ft of torque Cummins engine option, the fundamental chassis, cab, and bed configurations have remained relatively the same since their introduction in 2010. Will this trend change for the 2025 models?
Based on rumors from Detroit and insights from Ram truck history, here’s a speculative preview of what might be in store for the ’25 Ram 2500 or 3500. Expect a refreshed front-end design with a redesigned grille, significant interior enhancements, an eight-speed automatic transmission to replace the existing 68RFE six-speed, a more powerful 6.7L Cummins diesel engine, and increased towing capacity. It’s possible that Ram aims to surpass Ford’s best-in-class 1,200 lb-ft torque and segment-leading 40,000-pound towing capacity. Brace yourself for significant changes—a revolutionary new workhorse could be on the horizon from Ram.
Parting Ways With The 68RFE Transmission
Many Ram enthusiasts, especially Cummins fans, will welcome the departure of the problematic Chrysler 68RFE transmission. Since its introduction in the ‘07.5 model year, this electronic six-speed automatic has faced numerous issues, mainly struggling to handle the torque output of the 6.7L inline-six Cummins engine. Despite the introduction of the “commercial grade” Aisin AS69RC automatic transmission in 2013 for high-output Cummins models, it failed to meet customer expectations. This is particularly evident in Rams that have been modified for increased horsepower and torque—a common practice among Cummins enthusiasts.
ZF-Built 8-Speed
Enthusiasts acknowledge ZF Friedrichshafen AG as a manufacturer of robust transmissions. Among its lineup are several eight-speed automatic transmissions, with expectations pointing towards a diesel-specific version of the ZF 8HP75 (or similar) powering the ’25 heavy-duty Rams efficiently and reliably. In various applications, ZF automatic transmissions have demonstrated the ability to handle torque levels beyond their rated capacities. The current 8HP75 behind the 6.4L Hemi engine has proven its durability. The forthcoming diesel-specific eight-speed transmission for ’25 Rams may introduce under the name “ZF Powerline” or “PowerLine 8AT.”
Will The 6.7L Cummins See An Increase In Horsepower And Torque?
Rumors suggest that there will be a single Cummins engine option available in 2025. This eliminates the need to choose between high output and standard output models, which previously required opting for a 3500 model to access the exceptional torque of the high-output engine. It remains to be seen what the power output of the new engine will be. Can Ram and Cummins challenge Ford’s dominance with their 500 hp and 1,200 lb-ft high-output 6.7L Power Stroke engine figures? While Ram may not match Ford’s V8 horsepower, it could possibly reach 450 hp. Predictions for peak torque exceed 1,100 lb-ft.
A New Chassis
If the prediction of a higher horsepower, increased torque Cummins engine holds, it would be a step towards challenging Ford’s supremacy. To achieve the best-in-class towing capability, Ram will likely need a redesigned or significantly revised chassis. The last major chassis upgrades occurred over a decade ago. The 2025 Ram 2500 and 3500 models are likely to feature stronger steel frame rails and a longer frame supporting additional wheelbase inches. This adjustment would position Ram to compete against the longer lengths of Ford and GM, allowing their short bed models to exceed Ram’s length by approximately 6 inches.
Gargantuan Towing & Payload Ratings
A vivid portrayal of a 450 horsepower, 1,100 pound-feet Cummins-equipped Ram heavy-duty truck that is lengthier, sturdier, and more balanced than ever before has been presented. How much weight will a suitably equipped 3500 model be able to tow and carry? Surpassing GM’s heavy-duty trucks is a simple task, and the ’24 model Rams already excel in that area, but taking on Ford’s F-450 for ultimate supremacy is the big challenge. In terms of towing capacity, the aim is to exceed 40,000 pounds (using a gooseneck hitch). And regarding payload, surpassing Ford’s leading 8,000-pound mark might also be within Ram’s reach (current ’24 models are capable of hauling up to 7,680 pounds in the bed).
All-New Interior
It is common knowledge that Ram has lagged behind the competition in terms of interior offerings, so it is imperative that the gadgets and technology found in the new DT generation (1500) are also included in Ram’s ’25 Heavy Duty models. Hopefully, features like the available 14.5-inch central Uconnect infotainment touchscreen in the ’25 1500s and the 10.3-inch passenger side heads-up display will be on board. Additionally, integrating the versatile, 12.0-inch driver information screen that the 1500s enjoyed would be a game-changer. By enhancing its technology and utilizing premium materials in its higher-end models, Ram can certainly entice back its discerning truck customers.
Redesigned Body
Ram enthusiasts have been eagerly anticipating this moment for quite some time. The anticipated changes didn’t materialize in 2019 nor in 2023 as some had speculated, but here we are, swiftly approaching the 2025 model year. This time, we are confident that it will happen. The ’25 models are likely to showcase new front-end styling on Ram trucks: updated headlights, a fresh grille, redesigned bumpers (front and rear), and possibly taillights that resemble those on the revamped 1500 models. As for the cabin, there has been no mention of aluminum yet, so we assume it will remain steel; however, with the anticipated longer chassis, more interior space is expected.
Onboard Power
Providing external power to truck owners has become a standard feature in recent years, with Ford and GM leading the way. It would not be surprising to find onboard power integrated into the ’25 model Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks. After all, Ram has already introduced this feature in its ’25 half-ton lineup. This system allows you to power tools, music, lights, or even essential home appliances during power outages. It includes two 110-volt power outlets and, in case you need to switch power sources, there is an option for a 2-kilowatt inverter.
It’s Happened Before
Indeed, Ram has led the pack in the past. Back in the ’13 model year, the Auburn Hills truck manufacturer surprised everyone by releasing a 3500 model that outperformed the competition. It surpassed Ford’s F-450 and its gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 37,600 pounds far exceeded Ford’s then limit of 33,000 pounds. Fast forward to 2019, Ram once again stunned the world with the introduction of the high output 6.7L Cummins engine, a new CGI block inline-six producing 1,000 pound-feet of torque (marking it as the first light-duty diesel engine to reach four-digit torque figures). That same year, suitably equipped Ram 3500s set a best-in-class gooseneck tow rating (for a period) of 35,100 pounds. This goes to show that anything is achievable, so stay tuned for official updates from Ram later this year.
More From Driving Line
As a demonstration of our past accuracy, let’s recall when we forecasted the 2020 6.7L Power Stroke surpassing the 1,000 pound-feet barrier four months before it actually happened. A feat worth remembering…
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