Giant RAM No. 2. Power through generations
The RAM 2500 is a full-size body-on-frame pickup with 40 years of history, owned by Stellantis NV. Throughout its existence, it was characterized by large size, power and strength. It was created as the second major model by Dodge, alongside the 1500 and 3500. In 2021, the fifth generation of the 2019 pickup is available on the market.
The RAM 2500 evolved in a monosyllabic direction: each next generation was larger and stronger than the previous one. Starting from the second generation, the level of comfort for the driver and passengers has also increased.
The first generation
It was produced from 1981 to 1993. The first RAM 2500 debuted as one of the models based on the D-series trucks from Dodge. Back then, the RAMs were designated with three-digit numbers, so the 2500th was the 250th. The gradation showed that the RAM 250 could carry loads weighing ¾ tons.
The design differed little from the representatives of the D-series, but the first RAM 2500 had upgraded engines. It was equipped with a 3.7-liter 6-cylinder Chrysler Slant-6 engine and a 5.2 or 5.9-liter 8-cylinder engine. In 1988, the Slant-6 was replaced with a 3.9-liter Chrysler LA 239, and the 5.2-liter and 5.9-liter engines had electronic fuel injection.
In 1991, the vehicle acquired a slightly changed design and modernized engines accompanied by an upgraded 4-speed gearbox. By the sunset of the first generation, the 2500 had significant differences from the D-series: a bench seat, cruise control, air conditioning, bumper protection, a tilting steering column, power door locks and windows, an AM/FM stereo system with a cassette recorder.
The second generation
It was produced from 1994 to 2002. The second Dodge RAM 2500 was subjected to major changes. The design acquired recognizable characteristics: formidable dimensions, a huge radiator grille with a bighorn sheep and muscular wheel arches. The RAM designation became four-digit. Thus, the 250th became the 2500th.
The 2500th began to be produced in two versions: Heavy Duty with double wheels on the rear axle and Light Duty. Both pickups could be supplied in rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions. The second generation was equipped with 3.9 and 5.2-liter 6-cylinder engines, a 5.9 liter 8-cylinder engine, Cummins turbo diesel and an 8-liter 10-cylinder engine, which was created especially for the 2500th. Each engine was available with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
The interior became more spacious, more comfortable and more modern. As compared to the previous version, this model had more storage space: a larger glove compartment, additional storage space behind the seat and space in the center armrest. The dashboard was more advanced.
The third generation
It was produced from 2003 to 2008. The third Dodge RAM 2500 is a full-size heavy-duty truck available in both conventional and 4-seater cabs. It was equipped as standard with a 5.9 liter 8-cylinder engine generating 245 hp, plus there is an 8-liter V10 engine generating 310 hp. The third 2500th could carry up to 1.6 tons of cargo and pull a trailer weighing up to 6.4 tons.
The pickup was offered in three-six seater versions. The interior had good ergonomics and large controls characteristic of a large pickup. The developers did not forget that the RAM was originally designed for carrying out work-related operations, so they adapted the controls to work with gloves. Anti-lock disc brakes were included as standard.
In 2003, a significant event took place: the pickup acquired a hands-free mobile phone with Bluetooth.
In 2003, the pickup was equipped with a 5.7-liter 8-cylinder engine generating 345 hp, increased towing capacity, improved steering response and additional safety equipment. A year later, there was an automatic transmission for the high-performance Cummins turbo diesel engine. In 2003, a significant event took place: the pickup acquired a hands-free mobile phone with Bluetooth.
In 2005, the manufacturer introduced a new modification of the 2500, the Power Wagon, with electric locking of front and rear differentials and an electrically-closed front anti-roll bar, a 5.4 ton winch and a Cummins turbo diesel. In 2006, a modification of the Mega Cab body was presented. It was half a meter longer in comparison with the basic version and had new devices. In 2007, the vehicle started being equipped with a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine, which produced 345 hp. RAM had almost no competitors in the segment, but the time came for a total redesign and the appearance of a new generation.
The fourth generation
It was produced from 2008 to 2019. The fourth 2500 acquired an additional large 6-cylinder diesel engine, which produced 350 hp and could tow more than 6 tons. The pickup was available in Regular, Quad Cab and Mega Cab (large crew cab) cab options. The standard cab was available in ST or SLT trim levels. Quad Cab could have ST, SLT or Laramie trim levels. Mega Cab came as SXT or Laramie only.
The RAM 2500 ST was equipped with wheels a little over 17 inches, air conditioning and a CD player. The SLT additionally had alloy wheels, cruise control, electrical accessories and keyless access. The SXT was equipped in a similar way, but only came with a Mega Cab. The luxurious Laramie had 2-zone climate control, an electric driver’s seat, and audio controls on the steering wheel. Premium options included a sunroof, power pedals, Bluetooth, navigation system, and satellite radio. Anti-lock 4-wheel disc brakes were standard on the Dodge RAM 2500, whereas side curtain airbags were optional.
RAM’s transition from Dodge to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles became its primary event in 2009.
The Dodge RAM 2500 did not pass crash tests, but its younger brother, the 1500, received five out of five stars in terms of front passenger protection in frontal collisions. The safety kit for the 2500 was similar, but reinforced. RAM’s transition from Dodge to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles became its primary event in 2009.
The fifth generation
It has been produced from 2019 to the present (as of 2021). The new RAM 2500 is a very tall, weighty and functional pickup, presented in a variety of modifications for all occasions. The base engine is a 6.4-liter petrol 8-cylinder engine generating 410 hp. The pickup is equipped with the rear air suspension, which replaces the rear coil springs with airbags, and a braking system that uses 14-inch rotors and twin-piston calipers. The 2020 RAM 2500 comes with adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist system, blind spot monitoring system and automatic emergency braking. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the five-point safety rating to the RAM 2500.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the maximum five-point safety rating to the RAM 2500.
The 2020/2021 RAM 2500 is presented in the following trim levels:
- Power Wagon - off-road longer version;
- Laramie Longhorn - one of the premium versions with active safety system and highly comfortable interior trim;
- Tradesman – a version for heavy work, with steel wheels and maximum towing capacity;
- Big Horn (Lone Star in Texas) – a version with chrome parts, power mirrors, integrated brake controller, 18-inch chrome wheels and other luxury items.
