Which Ram model is best for towing?
For maximum towing power in the Ram lineup, the Ram 3500 Heavy Duty — especially the diesel-powered, dual rear-wheel configuration — offers the highest tow ratings, including gooseneck and fifth-wheel capability in the mid-to-upper 30,000-pound range. For most buyers who need substantial but not extreme towing, the Ram 2500 provides strong performance, while the Ram 1500 covers lighter to mid-range towing. Your choice depends on the trailer type, distance, and required payload.
Understanding Ram's towing hierarchy
Ram separates its lineup into light-duty 1500 and heavy-duty 2500/3500, with the 3500 leading in raw towing capability. The exact numbers vary by cab style, bed length, drivetrain (2WD/4WD), axle ratio, and whether you’re pulling with a bumper hitch, gooseneck, or fifth-wheel. A diesel engine typically delivers the most torque at low rpm, which is crucial for heavy loads. Here’s a snapshot of typical towing envelopes by model family in common configurations:
- Ram 3500 Heavy Duty (DRW, diesel): strongest towing capability in the Ram lineup, with gooseneck/fifth-wheel setups reaching about 37,100 pounds in the right configuration.
- Ram 2500 Heavy Duty (diesel): robust performance, commonly cited around 19,000–20,000 pounds in optimized configurations with the diesel engine.
- Ram 1500 (gas or diesel): versatile light-to-mid towing, generally in the 11,000–13,000-pound range depending on engine, axle ratio, and equipment.
Conclusion: For the heaviest towing jobs, the Ram 3500 is the clear leader, while the 2500 and 1500 offer substantial towing in more common scenarios. Always verify the exact ratings for your configured truck and trailer type with Ram’s build tool or the owner's manual.
Other considerations that affect towing performance
Beyond raw capacity, several features and configuration choices influence how well a Ram tows and how safely it handles heavy loads. The following factors shape real-world towing performance:
- Engine torque and power delivery: Diesel powertrains typically deliver higher torque at low rpm, aiding heavy trailer launches and climbs.
- Rear axle ratio and drivetrain options: Higher numerical axle ratios can improve towing capability, and four-wheel drive adds traction in adverse conditions.
- Payload capacity: A higher payload rating supports heavier trailers when accounting for gear and ballast in the truck.
- Towing tech and safety systems: Integrated trailer brakes, Trailer Sway Control, hill-descent/assist features, and trailer-view cameras help maintain control while towing.
- Gooseneck and fifth-wheel readiness: Configurations that support gooseneck or fifth-wheel towing expand the practical towing envelope for very heavy loads.
Bottom line: If your plan is to haul very heavy trailers, prioritize a Ram 3500 with diesel and DRW; for substantial towing with more daily usability, the Ram 2500 is a strong middle ground; and for lighter towing, the Ram 1500 remains the most practical choice. Always confirm the exact numbers for your chosen configuration and trailer type before purchasing.
Summary
Across the Ram lineup, the Ram 3500 Heavy Duty stands as the top option for maximum towing capacity, particularly with the 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel and dual rear wheels, capable of handling heavy gooseneck or fifth-wheel trailers in the very high range. The Ram 2500 offers robust capability for most heavy-tow scenarios, while the Ram 1500 delivers adequate towing with better daily-drive efficiency. Prospective buyers should verify the exact ratings for their specific configuration and trailer setup to ensure safe, compliant towing.
