Dodge's Ram model pick-ups are full-sized trucks manufactured under the umbrella of the Chrysler Group LLC. Ram Trucks were considered a member of the Dodge family prior to the last quarter of 2010, when they were sold under Ram Trucks branding. The Ram 2500 model has been successful for years as a light-to-heavy-duty, full-size pick-up. Recognizable by their Ram hood ornaments, Dodge Ram pick-ups and their offspring have been in production since 1981.
The Dodge Ram 2500 first appeared after a Ram line redesign in 1994. The earliest Ram 2500 was a 3/4 ton truck with a V10 Cummins Turbo diesel engine, offering light duty and heavy duty packages. Dodge released the third-generation Ram - representing the second generation of the 2500 - in 2003, with live axles but a body style... View more drawn from past models. The current fourth generation of the Dodge Ram 2500 debuted at the North American Auto Show in Detroit in 2008. The 5.7L, V8 HEMI previously available received a 45 hp boost, and fuel efficiency increased by 4%. Towing capacity for the 2500 series exceeds 10,000 pounds. The design by Ryan Nagode and Scott Krugger is built at the Chrysler Saltillo Assembly Plant located in Coahuila, Mexico.
Considering the Ram's early struggles against other, better-known truck brands, its recent sales success indicates great growth and a clear recognition of its target audience. The Dodge Ram 2500 has evolved through each generation into a powerful machine known for its safety, durability and innovation. Current models come with 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, an electronic stability program, a new HEMI engine option, and a four-door cab option. A Ram 2500 hybrid version is in development. Crash test ratings for the Ram line have improved steadily over each phase of redesign.
The Ram 2500 comes in a variety of packages for performance and comfort. A Mega Cab option is available on current models of the 2500, as well as regular cab trims in 2-door and 4-door configurations. Engine specs can be upgraded to handle the specific towing or payload requirements of the consumer, resulting in a highly customizable vehicle. Sport trim packages such as the Rumble Bee and Daytona have been popular sellers on the 2500 platform.
The Dodge Ram 2500 is part of a line that has been named a Motor Trend Magazine Truck of the Year on three separate occasions. Interestingly, the Ram has won the award once in its second, third and fourth generations of production. Fourth generation Dodge Ram 2500 pick-up trucks have received a 5-star NHTSA rating for frontal crash tests. View less
