Which 2500 truck is best for towing?

The Ford F-250 with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel often leads in maximum towing capability within the 2500-class, but the best choice depends on your trailer type, weight, and priorities. Ram 2500 excels for ride quality and torque delivery, while Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and GMC Sierra 2500HD offer strong payload and braking performance. In short, there isn’t a single “best” for every job—your trailer and usage will determine the winner.

To understand why that is, it helps to understand how heavy-duty pickups are engineered for towing. The 2500-class trucks sit between light-duty half-ton trucks and heavier one-ton models, balancing payload capacity, torque, transmission tuning, and trailer-tow tech. Diesel engines typically provide the strongest pulling power, which matters most when you’re pulling heavy goosenecks, fifth-wheel rigs, or long bumper-pull trailers. Other factors—like cab and bed configuration, axle ratio, and towing aids—shape real-world performance as well.

Understanding the 2500 Class and Towing

Heavy-duty 2500 pickups are built to haul substantial trailers, but the exact tow figure depends on configuration. The key numbers you’ll hear about are maximum conventional tow (for standard bumper-pull trailers), maximum gooseneck/5th-wheel tow, payload capacity, and gross combined weight rating. Among the major players, Ford, Ram and GM all offer diesel options with torque-rich engines and dedicated towing technologies to help control sway, brake performance, and backup maneuvers. Your choice should align with the kind of trailer you pull, how often you tow, and whether you value ride comfort as highly as peak towing numbers.

Top Contenders for Towing in the 2500 Class

Below is a snapshot of the leading 2500-class trucks for towing, focusing on capabilities and practical towing features across typical configurations. The list reflects widely available models in 2024–2025 and is intended to help buyers compare the core strengths of each truck.

• Ford F-250 Super Duty (6.7L Power Stroke Diesel) — Known for strong torque and robust towing technology, including advanced trailering aids and a well-regarded hitching experience. This model is frequently cited as a top choice for heavy gooseneck and fifth-wheel setups.


• Ram 2500 (6.7L Cummins Diesel) — Praised for a smooth ride and high torque, plus optional air suspension and a broad trailer-tow package that emphasizes stability and control while towing.


• Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD / GMC Sierra 2500HD (Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel) — Delivers solid payload and braking performance, with comprehensive trailering tech and a strong chassis that supports heavy bumper-pull and multi-trailer configurations.

When shopping, remember that the exact tow ratings and capabilities depend on the precise configuration you choose (cab/bed size, rear axle ratio, drivetrain, and options). Always verify the GCWR (gross vehicle weight rating including trailer) and ensure the hitch setup matches your trailer’s weight and tongue weight.

How to Choose the Right 2500 for Your Trailer

To pick the right truck for your towing needs, focus on how you’ll use the vehicle beyond raw numbers. The following considerations help align your choice with real-world towing tasks.

• Trailer type and weight: Gooseneck and fifth-wheel trailers demand different setup and torque profiles than bumper-pull trailers. Determine the trailer’s weight, tooth weight, and tongue weight.


• Powertrain and gearing: Diesel engines deliver dedicated torque for start-ups and climbs; transmission tuning and axle ratio impact launch and stable highway towing.


• Trailering tech: Features such as trailer brake controllers, sway control, backup assist, surround-view cameras, and integrated trailer stability systems can dramatically improve confidence while towing.


• Ride and comfort: If you tow frequently, a smoother ride and better cabin insulation can reduce fatigue on long trips—areas where Ram’s air suspension and GM’s refined dampers show value.


• Owning costs: Consider fuel economy, maintenance, warranty coverage, and resale value—Diesels can offer strong longevity but may have higher maintenance costs.

Model Highlights

Ford F-250: Key towing strengths

The F-250’s Power Stroke diesel is a longstanding draw for heavy towing, offering abundant torque and proven durability. It pairs with a comprehensive set of towing aids, hill-descent assistance, and Pro Trailer Tow features that help with alignment, braking, and backup maneuvers when you’re towing large trailers.

Ram 2500: Key strengths

Ram emphasizes ride quality and steady pulling power. The Cummins diesel delivers strong low-end torque, and the optional air suspension smooths the ride when unhitched. A broad array of trailer-tow packages provides integrated braking, sway control, and camera system enhancements for easier trailering.

Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD / GMC Sierra 2500HD: Key strengths

GM’s heavy-duty twins focus on payload and braking performance, with a reliable Duramax diesel and a robust trailering tech suite. Their integrated systems help with load handling, stability, and precise braking across a range of trailer configurations.

Other Considerations for Tow Planning

Beyond the numbers, the right 2500 for towing hinges on how you balance power, stability, and daily usability. Always test-drive with a trailer or load similar to what you’ll tow, and consult the manufacturer’s tow ratings for your exact configuration. If you anticipate frequent heavy towing, consider allocating budget for air-suspension options, advanced trailer towing packages, and a well-matched hitch setup.

Summary

In 2025, the Ford F-250 with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel remains a leading choice for maximum towing capability in the 2500 class, especially for heavy gooseneck and fifth-wheel setups. The Ram 2500 offers standout ride quality and torque, making it a strong alternative for daily towing where comfort matters. Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and GMC Sierra 2500HD deliver solid payload and braking performance, with a tech-forward approach to trailering. The best pick depends on trailer type, weights, and which trailering features you value most; test with your actual trailer to determine the optimal match for your needs.

Which Ram 2500 is best for towing?

The best Ram 2500 for towing is the one equipped with the 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel engine, which provides the highest towing capacity, reaching up to 20,000 pounds on the 2025 model. While any Ram 2500 is capable, the diesel is superior for heavy-duty use due to its immense torque. For those who prioritize a balance of power and fuel efficiency, the standard 6.4L HEMI V8 engine is a viable alternative, with a maximum towing capacity of up to 17,750 pounds.
 
This video reviews the 2026 Ram 2500 HD's towing capabilities, focusing on the Cummins turbo diesel engine: 59sDrive.com.auYouTube · Nov 6, 2025
Engine and performance

• For maximum towing: Choose the 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel engine. It delivers the highest towing capacity, with the 2025 model maxing out at 20,000 pounds, according to Lake Keowee CDJR. 
• For a balance of power and efficiency: The 6.4L HEMI V8 engine offers a strong performance for a variety of tasks, including towing up to 17,750 pounds when properly equipped. 

You can watch this video to learn about the 2025 Ram 2500's new Cummins diesel engine and 8-speed transmission: 57sOut MotorsportsYouTube · Sep 27, 2025
Key features for towing

• For heavy-duty loads: The Fifth-Wheel/Gooseneck Prep Package is highly recommended for larger trailers, as it includes factory-installed structural crossmembers and hardware to simplify hitch setup, notes City Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat of Brookfield.
• For easier trailer management: Available technology like the Digital Rearview Mirror with side camera integration and the wired Tow Mode Camera provide enhanced visibility, while the Trailer Reverse Steering Control can assist in tight spaces.
• For stability: The Auto-Level Rear Air Suspension is an exclusive option that helps maintain a stable ride when carrying varying loads, explains City Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat of Brookfield. 

Trim level

• The Tradesman trim is often considered the best for towing because it is the most work-focused and affordable option, while still achieving the maximum towing capacity when paired with the correct engine, according to Clement Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Florissant. 

What is the most reliable used 2500 truck?

The most reliable used 2500 trucks are often considered to be the Ford F-250 with the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine and the Dodge/Ram 2500 with the Cummins 5.9L or 6.7L engine. Other reliable options include the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD (especially models with the Duramax engine and Allison transmission). All diesel trucks require proper maintenance, and a professional inspection before purchase is highly recommended.
 
Ford

• 7.3L Power Stroke: This engine is legendary for its durability and ability to exceed 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. 
• Super Duty: The F-250 Super Duty line has a long history of robust performance and reliability. 

Dodge/Ram

• 5.9L Cummins: Models from 1994-2007 are particularly well-regarded, especially those with the pre-DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) 5.9L engine, which is known for its simplicity and longevity. 
• 6.7L Cummins: These are also very robust, though the introduction of more complex emissions equipment may be a consideration. 

Chevrolet

• Duramax engine with Allison transmission: This combination is a workhorse, and some studies show the Silverado 2500HD is more than three times as likely as the average vehicle to reach 250,000 miles.
• Models to consider: Models from 2017-2020 are particularly sought after for their balance of performance and modern features. 

Important considerations for any used 2500 truck

• Maintenance is key: Regardless of the model, proper and regular maintenance is essential for a long-lasting diesel truck.
• Pre-purchase inspection: Always have a qualified mechanic inspect the truck before you buy it to identify any potential issues. 

Which is better, Ram 2500 or Silverado 2500?

The 2025 Ram 2500 and Silverado 2500 HD both offer heavy-duty performance, but the Ram 2500 is often favored for its comfortable, coil-spring ride when unloaded and superior in-cab storage, while the Silverado 2500 HD's leaf-spring suspension is better for towing and it offers more front-seat and overall interior room. The Ram's Cummins engine is praised for its low-end torque, and its available options can lead to a better towing experience for some, while the Silverado's Duramax engine provides strong performance. The Ram also boasts a higher maximum payload capacity with the available 6.4L HEMI V8. 
Ram 2500

• Ride and comfort: Features a coil-spring suspension that provides a more comfortable ride when unloaded, but this can lead to more sway when towing. 
• Interior and storage: Offers the most in-cab storage, including underfloor bins and a multi-configurable center console. 
• Towing: The Cummins engine is known for its strong low-end torque, which is beneficial for towing. 
• Payload: Can have a higher max payload capacity with the available 6.4L HEMI V8 engine. 
• Off-roading: Has a solid front axle, which is easier to upgrade for off-road modifications. 

This video compares the towing and ride experience of the Ram 2500 and Silverado 2500: 1mTruck KingYouTube · Aug 22, 2023
Silverado 2500 HD 

• Ride and comfort: The leaf-spring suspension provides more stability when towing but can result in a firmer ride when the truck is empty. 
• Interior and space: Offers more front-seat and overall interior room compared to the Ram 2500. 
• Performance: The Duramax engine is powerful, and the truck's transmissions are often praised for keeping the truck in a good power band, though the Ram's Cummins engine has been noted to have better torque. 
• Towing: The leaf-spring suspension is generally considered better for towing stability. 
• Off-roading: Features independent front suspension, which is less ideal for certain off-road upgrades compared to the Ram's solid front axle. 

This video discusses the performance comparison between the Ram 2500 and Silverado 2500 HD: 58sJB ReviewsYouTube · Sep 17, 2021
Which should you choose?

• Choose the Ram 2500 if you prioritize a comfortable empty-truck ride, superior in-cab storage, and the enhanced low-end torque of the Cummins engine for heavy hauling. 
• Choose the Silverado 2500 HD if you need more interior space or a more stable towing experience due to its leaf-spring suspension and often better on-road comfort when loaded. 
• Your decision may also come down to specific available features, available engine options, and personal preference for interior design and ergonomics. 

Which Ram 2500 to stay away from?

You should avoid the 2012-2016 and 2018 Ram 2500 models due to significant reliability issues like transmission failures, brake system defects, steering problems ("death wobble"), and chronic electrical issues. Additionally, some older models (1991-1993) and specific diesel engine years are also not recommended due to known catastrophic failures and outdated safety features. 
Years to avoid

• 2012-2016 and 2018: These model years are particularly problematic and are frequently cited for severe issues, including: 
  • Steering issues, such as "death wobble". 
  • Transmission defects and failures. 
  • Brake system failures. 
  • Frequent electrical problems and component failures. 
  • Turbocharger breakdowns. 
• 1991-1993 (First Generation Cummins): These early models are not recommended due to being outdated and having significant mechanical problems, including the Killer Dowel Pin (KDP) issue which can cause catastrophic engine failure. 
• 2003-2007 (5.9 Cummins): While generally more reliable than older models, the 2003 model year had some teething problems. For this engine, it's better to avoid the 2003 model and aim for 2004-2007 models, as recommended by Jalopnik. 

Specific components to be cautious of

• 66RFE transmission (2014-2018): This transmission, paired with the 6.4L HEMI engine, was prone to overheating and had issues with the 2-3 shift, valve body, and solenoids, according to this YouTube video. 
• 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel engine (2021-2025): Some owners have reported problems with the 6.7L engine, including stalling, misfires, and excessive oil consumption, notes The Lemon Lawyers. 
• Early 6.4L HEMI (2014-2018): The cylinder deactivation (MDS) feature in this engine is considered a negative by some, as noted in this YouTube video.