So I want to add some more standard vs HO info. I bought a 2021 3500 HO (white). My father liked it so much that he went out and bought a 2021 2500 (gray). The two are very similarly equipped.
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You can definitely tell a difference between how the two drive. Casual driving mine is more laid back, it doesn't really care what you do. The 2500 feels more... urgent? I guess is the right word. With that being said, you can definitely feel the power difference between the two.
As far as the transmissions, mine goes through the first few gears way quicker than the 68rfe. Jumping between the two makes me feel like it takes forever for the 2500 to make it through 1,2,3. The Aisin definitely shifts with more authority and firmness. I much prefer the Aisin over the 68rfe.
The 2500 gets better fuel economy. Stock for stock, I was getting between 17-18 on the highway while he's getting 20mpg easy. Both sit at the exact same rpm cruising 80mph.