Compare the Ram 2500 vs Ram 3500 in Concord, NH

2026 Ram 2500 vs. 2026 Ram 3500: Heavy-Duty Strength, Two Different Missions

Choosing between serious capability and outright overkill

When you are shopping for heavy-duty trucks, the question is rarely "Can it tow?" and almost always "How much do I really need?" That is where comparing the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 side by side becomes essential, especially if you are ordering through Bob Mariano Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram near Concord.

Engines and Performance

Both the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 share the same engine family, but how they deploy that power - and what you plan to tow - should guide your choice.

  • Standard engine: 6.4-liter HEMI V8 with about 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque.
  • Available engine: 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel inline six with stout low-end torque.
  • Ram 3500 only: high-output Cummins with even stronger torque for maximum towing.
  • Ram 2500: smoother ride and slightly lighter feel, ideal for mixed work and daily driving.
  • Ram 3500: built for heavier loads, with beefier rear suspension and hardware.

Towing and Payload Capability

This is where the two trucks really start to separate. Both are strong, but the 3500 is clearly tuned for the heaviest work.

Ram 2500

  • Conventional towing capacity that can climb into the upper teens (in pounds) when properly equipped.
  • Available fifth wheel/gooseneck prep for more stable heavy towing.
  • Payload suitable for tools, gear, and bed-mounted accessories without overkill.

Ram 3500

  • Maximum towing that can approach the very top of the segment with the high-output diesel.
  • Higher gross combined weight rating for big fifth wheel and gooseneck trailers.
  • Payload that can be significantly higher, especially in dual rear wheel configurations.

Ride Quality and Everyday Use

Your back and your passengers will notice the difference between a three-quarter ton and a one-ton truck.

Ram 2500:

  • Available rear coil springs or air suspension for a more composed, SUV-like ride when unladen.
  • Easier to park and maneuver, especially in town and tight driveways.
  • Better fit if you spend more time commuting than towing at max capacity.

Ram 3500:

  • More robust leaf spring rear setup tuned for load, not luxury.
  • Can feel firmer when the bed is empty, especially on broken pavement.
  • Shines when the truck is loaded or hitched, with excellent stability.

Interior, Technology, and Features

Inside, the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 feel more alike than different, especially in higher trims.

  • Shared cabin design with premium materials available from mid-level trims upward.
  • Available large touchscreen (up to tablet sized) with modern graphics and crisp responses.
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB ports, and available premium audio.
  • Optional digital gauge cluster with configurable displays for towing and off-road data.
  • Available safety tech: adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, parking sensors, surround view camera.

In other words, you mostly choose between 2500 and 3500 based on capability; your comfort and tech experience can be nearly identical if you configure them similarly at Bob Mariano CDJR.

FAQs: Ram 2500 vs. Ram 3500

Do I really need a Ram 3500, or is the Ram 2500 enough?

If your heaviest trailer is well under the Ram 2500's maximum rating and you do not tow at the limit day in and day out, the Ram 2500 is usually the smarter, more comfortable choice. Step up to the Ram 3500 when your loaded weights consistently push the top of what a three quarter ton can handle.

Is there a fuel economy difference between the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500?

Because the trucks often share engines and transmissions, any difference in fuel use comes down to weight, gearing, and how you drive. The Ram 3500 may use slightly more fuel in similar conditions simply because it is built heavier and often equipped for more serious towing.

Can I get the same interior and tech on both models?

Yes. Trim levels and option packages for the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 largely mirror each other, so you can equip either with the same upscale interior, large screen, and safety tech. Your choice comes down to capability, not comfort features.

Shop Ram Heavy Duty Trucks at Bob Mariano CDJR

Still deciding between the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500? Visit Bob Mariano Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to walk both trucks, compare towing and payload numbers for your exact needs, and test drive each back to back.

Shop the Ram 2500.

Shop the Ram 3500.

  1. Bob Mariano Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

    146 Manchester St
    Concord, NH 03301-5112

    • Sales: (888) 559-8107
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