FIRST LOOK: 2025 Ram Heavy Duty and Chassis Cab

Friday, I had the chance to get up close with the updated 2025 Ram Heavy Duty and Chassis Cab lineup at the Detroit Auto Show. While these trucks don’t represent a total overhaul from the 2024 models, they’ve received several meaningful updates that improve their design, technology, and performance in ways that really stand out.

Design Updates: Subtle but Bold – 

Let’s start with the styling. At first glance, the 2025 models might look pretty similar to their predecessors, but there are a few key changes that give them a fresh edge. Up front, the redesigned headlights and grille make the trucks look more aggressive and modern. Around the back, the updated taillights and the bold “R-A-M” lettering across the tailgate add a touch of sophistication that elevates the overall look. Seeing them in person, I was struck by how these changes give the trucks a more commanding presence.

A Showcase of Versatility – 

At the show, Ram brought out four different models that highlight the versatility of the lineup:

• A 2500 Laramie Sport Crew Cab 4×4 in Flame Red
• A 2500 Limited Night Edition Mega Cab 4×4 in Diamond Black
• A 3500 Limited Longhorn Crew Cab Dually 4×4 in Granite Crystal
• A 5500 Laramie Crew Cab Chassis Cab outfitted with a Rancher package, also in Flame Red

Each of these trucks demonstrated the range of options available, whether you’re looking for rugged performance or luxurious features. Surprisingly, there was no off-road-oriented Rebel or Power Wagon models shown at the show.

Inside the Cabin: Tech Takes Center Stage – 

The interiors have seen some significant upgrades, with the most notable being the adoption of the Ram 1500’s massive 14.5-inch Uconnect 5 system. This system, which is standard on the Limited and Longhorn trims and optional on models like the Power Wagon, Rebel, and Laramie, is a big step forward. It’s faster and more intuitive than ever, thanks to Stellantis’ new Atlantis electrical architecture.

There’s also a class-exclusive 10.25-inch passenger screen and dual wireless charging pads, which add even more tech-savvy appeal. However, I was disappointed that the Heads-Up Display (HUD) from the Ram 1500 wasn’t included, especially given the capabilities of the new electrical system.

Safety Tech: Raising the Bar –

The 2025 Ram Heavy Duty trucks aren’t just about power and performance—they’re also packed with advanced safety features designed to make every drive safer and more convenient. Some of the standout features include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Collision Warning-Plus: Now standard, this system ensures a safer and more relaxed drive by automatically adjusting your speed to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead.
• ParkSense Front and Rear Park Assist: Available starting on the Big Horn/Lone Star trims, this system helps navigate tight parking spaces with ease.
• Drowsy Driver Detection: An optional feature that monitors driver behavior and provides alerts if it detects signs of fatigue.
• Traffic Sign Recognition: Another optional add-on, this feature reads road signs and displays them on the digital cluster for better situational awareness.
• Active Lane Management: Keeps the truck centered in its lane, reducing the risk of unintentional drifting.

Ram has also added a 2.4-kilowatt onboard power inverter with bed-mounted outlets, making it easier to power tools or appliances on the go. While not directly a safety feature, it adds to the truck’s versatility in demanding work environments.

Powertrains: Simplified but Stronger – 

For 2025, Ram has streamlined the engine lineup down to two options, ditching the standard-output Cummins. Here’s what’s under the hood:

• The 6.7-liter Cummins High-Output Turbo Diesel now makes 430 horsepower and a massive 1,075 lb-ft of torque.
• The 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 puts out 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque.

The HEMI has always been a workhorse, but this year it’s received some fine-tuning, including a slight five-horsepower reduction to some emissions updates. The best part? Ram has done away with the rotary dial shifter, bringing back the traditional column-mounted shifter, which feels much more intuitive and functional in a truck of this caliber.

The Cummins, on the other hand, has undergone a series of significant updates that improve performance, reliability, and even fuel efficiency. Engineers reworked the block and cylinder head, added heavy-duty pistons, and introduced a new Holset 10-spline turbocharger and larger valves for better airflow. It’s even got glow plugs now for quicker and more reliable starts in frigid conditions—a big win for those in colder climates.

Final Thoughts –

The 2025 Ram Heavy Duty lineup delivers meaningful updates that build on the strengths of an already impressive platform. From the sharper styling to the upgraded tech and improved engines, these trucks feel more refined and capable than ever.

The big question is whether these changes will be enough to keep customers loyal as Ford and General Motors (GM) continue to introduce major updates to their own heavy-duty trucks. With these new features and enhancements, Ram is certainly making a strong case for staying ahead of the curve.

The 2025 Ram Heavy Duty is expect to start reaching dealers starting at the end of this month.

2025 Ram Heavy Duty and Chassis Cab Image Gallery:

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