2027 Tradesman Power Wagon Won’t Get Cummins Diesel

As Ram continues to roll out details on its 2027 Heavy Duty lineup, the long-awaited Cummins-powered Power Wagon has grabbed plenty of attention. It’s a combination enthusiasts have been asking for years. But as more information comes to light, there’s one key detail that’s going to disappoint buyers hoping for a more affordable way into that setup.

I recently spoke with Ram about whether the 6.7-liter Cummins I6 High-Output (H/O) turbodiesel would be offered in a Tradesman-based Power Wagon configuration for 2027. In other words, a stripped-down, work-focused version of the Power Wagon that delivers all the off-road capability without the added cost of higher trims.

The answer was clear: it’s not happening.

Ram confirmed that the Cummins diesel will not be available on the budget-friendly Tradesman-based Power Wagon. If you want a diesel-powered Power Wagon, you’ll need to step up to the full Power Wagon trim level. And while that makes sense from a business standpoint, it’s still a bit of a letdown for those of us who were hoping for a simpler, more affordable diesel off-roader.

The Tradesman Still Brings Serious Muscle

Now, before writing off the Tradesman Power Wagon entirely, it’s important to remember that it’s far from underpowered.

Even without the Cummins option, the truck will still come equipped with the tried-and-true 6.4-liter (392 cubic-inch) BGE HEMI® V8. And let’s be honest—that’s nothing to complain about.

This heavy-duty HEMI is built specifically for work and durability, delivering strong horsepower and torque with a focus on reliability under load. It’s a proven engine in the Ram Heavy Duty lineup and continues to be a solid choice for buyers who want consistent performance without the added complexity of a diesel.

In real-world use, the 6.4-liter HEMI offers quick throttle response and strong mid-range power, making it well-suited for both off-road driving and everyday hauling. Whether you’re navigating trails, pulling a trailer, or just putting the truck to work, it gets the job done without hesitation.

A Different Kind of Capability

The absence of the Cummins diesel does change the personality of the Tradesman Power Wagon—but it doesn’t take away from its core capability.

You’re still getting the hardware that defines the Power Wagon name. That means heavy-duty solid front and rear axles, front and rear locking differentials, and a suspension setup designed for maximum articulation. The disconnecting sway bar up front remains a standout feature, allowing the truck to flex over obstacles with ease.

In other words, it’s still a serious off-road machine.

What you lose with the gas engine compared to the diesel is that massive low-end torque and extended driving range. But for many buyers—especially those who prioritize simplicity, lower upfront cost, and easier maintenance—the HEMI V8 is actually the better fit.

Why Ram Drew the Line

From Ram’s perspective, keeping the Cummins diesel exclusive to the higher-end Power Wagon trim helps maintain a clear separation within the lineup.

The Power Wagon isn’t just about capability—it’s also a flagship off-road model for the brand. By limiting the diesel option to that trim, Ram preserves its premium positioning while avoiding overlap with more basic, work-oriented configurations like the Tradesman.

There’s also the cost factor. The 6.7-liter Cummins I6 H/O turbodiesel brings added complexity, weight, and expense. Packaging that into a lower-priced trim while keeping margins in check isn’t easy.

Still, it’s hard not to feel like there was an opportunity here.

My Take

A Tradesman Power Wagon with a Cummins diesel would have been the ultimate no-nonsense truck—simple, capable, and built to handle just about anything you could throw at it.

Instead, Ram is taking a more traditional approach, reserving the diesel for higher trims and keeping the entry-level model gas-powered.

That said, the BGE HEMI V8 ensures the Tradesman Power Wagon is still very much a force to be reckoned with. It may not have the diesel badge, but it absolutely delivers where it counts.

For buyers looking for a rugged, proven setup without stepping into a higher price bracket, it’s still a compelling option—even if it’s not quite the one some of us were hoping for.

This particular model shown is a 2026 model, currently in inventory at Shaver Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram in Thousand Oaks, California.