Rumors Hint that 2025 Ram HD Trucks will Give Ford a Run for its Money

Photo Source: Ram

As of this writing, there is no official information from Ram regarding a complete overhaul of its Heavy Duty lineup. However, Ram Trucks has promised that the new Ram HD will be available later this year (2024). The 2025 Ram 1500 has exterior design modifications, a new Tungsten trim level, an available 14.5-inch central Uconnect infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.3-inch passenger side heads-up display. It also boasts new powertrain options and core electrical system upgrades. Thus, it is plausible that enthusiasts might see similar modifications to the Ram HD line of trucks.

Bidding Farewell to the 68RFE Transmission

In a crucial move for the Ram Truck brand, the upcoming 2025 Ram Heavy Duty and Chassis Cab lineup is poised to adopt the cutting-edge ZF Powerline eight-speed automatic transmission across all trims. This transformative decision comes after much speculation and sheds light on the long-awaited replacement for the controversial Chrysler 68RFE six-speed automatic transmission. Since being brought to market, the electronic, six-speed automatic has been plagued with myriad problems, the most notable being its inability to manage the torque output of the 6.7-liter inline-six Cummins engine.

The PowerLine 8AT by ZF, on the other hand, is not an average transmission; it is a robust eight-speed automatic designed specifically for heavy-duty commercial vehicles, boasting a remarkable capacity of up to 57,000 pounds. Indeed, it is widely believed that a diesel-specific variant of the PowerLine 8AT will be charged with dependable and efficient power transfer in 2025 heavy-duty Ram trucks. 

Sources indicate that in hosts of other applications, automatic ZF transmissions have proven capable of handling well north of their maximum torque input rating. In a joint effort between Cummins, ZF, and Ram engineers, the PowerLine has been meticulously developed and rigorously tested. One standout feature is its ability to handle up to 1,000 pound-feet of engine torque, making it a powerhouse for demanding tasks. 

2025 Ram 2500/3500

The 2025 Ram’s top heavy-duty contenders for maximum towing capacity are the massive 2500 and 3500 HD pickup trucks. That said, the rumor mill churns with the notion that there will be one Cummins engine option in the 2025 model year as opposed to a standard output and a high output engine. Despite comparing different Ram horsepower ratings, heavy-duty diesel truck lovers understand that torque is the most influential metric for towing. It is worth noting that since the larger Ram vehicles were released, heavyweight competitors have closed the gap, but rumors claim the 2025 Ram 3500 is the finest truck in terms of torque, challenging Ford’s class-dominating figures. Even though official specifications have yet to be released for Ram’s HD pickups, rumors suggest enthusiasts should definitely prepare themselves for a torque rating that exceeds 1,100 pound-feet.

Of course, the Ram 3500 is ready for almost any type of hauling or towing. Sources have painted a picture of a 450-horsepower Ram heavy-duty with a longer, stronger, and more stable chassis that will allow the manufacturer to rival Ford. For example, the 2024 model Ram trucks have a maximum diesel towing capacity of up to 37,090 pounds when properly equipped, stepping on the heels of the Ford F-450 pickup’s 40,000 pounds. With the expected enhancements, Ram is confident about reclaiming its segment-leading towing title.

As enthusiasts eagerly await the unveiling of the 2025 Ram Heavy Duty and Chassis Cab models, the integration of numerous upgrades is a testament to Ram’s dedication to customer satisfaction and innovation. If you are interested in what Ram has to offer, please come visit Miami Lakes Automall. Are you excited about getting a new car? So are we. We can help sell your current vehicle or bring it back to life like new with an online service appointment to our service center.