Cummins engine makes the 2023 RAM 2500 diesel so special. The Series 2 heavy-duty trucks are still relying on oil burners, although experts say the future for such powerplants is not so bright. Even some half-ton pickups are dropping diesel units. For example, Ford F-150. But, FCA still doesn’t have plans to break the deal with Cummins, especially not for the HD lineup.
The engine provides exceptional torque. However, for the far limits of the Cummins unit, you need to select the Ram 3500 model. It might be a bit down with the torque and towing capacity, but the 2023 RAM 2500 diesel will come with the unique Power Wagon package. In the foreseeable future, we might see the retuning of the drivetrain system, since FCA is not happy with the progress Chevy Silverado 2500 is showing thanks to the new Allison transmission. Some say the ZF gearbox might be replaced on the Ram HD trucks.
Diesel vs Petrol Engine, Specs Comparison
Under the bonnet of the Ram 2500 is a 6.4-liter V8 petrol plant, tuned to deliver 410 horsepower. We can see the same unit producing a lot more for some other vehicles. For example, Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV can count on 470 ponies. But, this is a hauling pickup and high power outputs don’t guarantee a better towing capacity. Still, 17,000 pounds is a respectable number.
On the other hand, the 2023 RAM 2500 diesel tows 20,000 pounds. A 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel V8 is producing 370 hp and 850 lb-ft of torque. The Ram 3500 HD is tuned for 400 horsepower and 1,000 lb-ft, maximizing outputs and hauling potential. Still, the Series 2 truck is a great option if you don’t need to haul 35,000 pounds at once.
2023 RAM 2500 Diesel Allison Transmission Switch
An eight-speed ZF transmission sends power either to the rear or all wheels for the 2023 RAM 2500 diesel. This is one of the reliable combinations in the market, but also the part that causes a lot of rumors recently. General Motors improved the HD diesel trucks thanks to the new Allison gearbox. According to speculations, Ram wants the same from its transmission. The company is even considering moving on from the ZF to Allison.
Still, the German company is not giving up so easily. Recently, they invested more than $200 million into R&D and the expansion of current plants. Also, experts believe that Ram will stick with the ZR because of the special applications for their vehicles, where more than two overdrive ratios are the best possible setup.
2023 RAM 2500 Diesel Power Wagon Package
The diesel engine is definitely a better option for the Ram 2500 truck. But, we can also recommend pairing it with the Power Wagon package. This is a unique bundle for the Ram 2500. It will enhance the look and the off-road drive. Skid plates, bedliners, unique suspension kit, damping system, and many other upgrades are making the 2023 RAM 2500 Diesel Power Wagon the favorite HD truck for adventures. Still, the heart of the package is the performance. It is impossible not to notice the power and torque of the Cummins diesel engine.
How 2023 RAM 2500 Diesel Stacks Up Against the Competition?
It is not hard to be competitive with the outputs the Ram 2500 is dealing. Still, the main rivals are out with similar power and torque levels, and details can be decisive sometimes. Chevy Silverado 2500 Duramax has improved thanks to the new Allison transmission. Also, General Motors might deliver an off-road ZR2 package, but it should be similar to the Sierra 2500 HD AT4. Ford is also under the spotlight with rumors of a potential Raptor version for the Powerstroke V8 configuration. But, looking at the rest of the lineup, we can notice that the F-150 dropped a diesel engine. On the other hand, it is not the only vehicle with the Raptor package anymore. Also, more truckers will opt for one of the Series 3 trucks from the same companies, since those HD beasts can tow more than 35,000 pounds.
Pricing
Such improvements cost more than the base configuration centered around a petrol unit. The MSRP for the Ram 2500 starts at $43,000 (Tradesman). Cummins oil burner is a $10k upgrade. The price of the 2023 RAM 2500 Diesel also depends on the numerous other options, such as AWD ($3,000) and cabin type, where the choice is available. Heavily-loaded pickups will exceed $85,000, making them premium vehicles. Still, you don’t need those for work.
