RAM is Chrysler's pickup truck brand, owned by Stellantis
RAM is the pickup truck division of Stellantis, the multinational automaker that also owns Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge. RAM trucks are sold under the RAM brand name — you will see them badged as "RAM 1500," "RAM 2500," or "RAM 3500" depending on the model and size class. The company manufactures these vehicles at plants in Michigan, Mexico, and other locations, and they compete directly with Ford F-Series trucks and Chevrolet Silverado trucks in the North American market.
RAM has positioned itself as a truck brand focused on towing capacity, payload, and interior comfort. The trucks come in multiple configurations: regular cab, crew cab, and quad cab, with bed lengths ranging from 5.5 feet to 8 feet. You can find RAM trucks at any Chrysler-Dodge-RAM dealership, and they are financed through Chrysler Capital or through your own bank or credit union.
Key Takeaways
- RAM trucks are made by Stellantis and sold at Chrysler-Dodge-RAM dealerships, with three main size classes: 1500 (light duty), 2500 (heavy duty), and 3500 (commercial duty).
- RAM 1500 trucks compete with Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 in the consumer pickup market, while 2500 and 3500 models target commercial and towing use.
- RAM trucks are known for high towing and payload ratings, with some models rated to tow over 14,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- You can finance a RAM truck through Chrysler Capital, your bank, or a credit union, and warranty coverage typically includes a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty.
The three RAM truck size classes and what they are built for
RAM makes three main truck lines, each designed for different uses. The RAM 1500 is the light-duty consumer truck, comparable to a Ford F-150 or Chevrolet Silverado 1500. It is the most common RAM truck on the road and is built for personal use, moderate towing, and everyday hauling. The 1500 comes in gasoline and diesel engine options, with towing capacity ranging from around 7,000 to 12,000 pounds depending on the engine and configuration.
The RAM 2500 is the heavy-duty truck, designed for serious towing and commercial work. It has a stronger frame, heavier suspension, and higher towing capacity — typically 17,000 to 19,000 pounds depending on engine choice. The 2500 is built to handle trailers, construction equipment, and sustained heavy loads. The RAM 3500 is the commercial-grade truck, rated for even higher payloads and towing, and is often used by contractors, landscapers, and businesses that need maximum capacity.
Engine options and fuel economy differences
RAM trucks come with several engine choices depending on the model year and trim level. The 1500 typically offers a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine as the base option, a 5.7-liter V8 gasoline engine as a mid-range choice, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine as a premium option. The diesel engine is more expensive upfront but delivers better fuel economy and higher torque, which is useful if you plan to tow regularly.
The 2500 and 3500 models offer a 6.7-liter turbodiesel engine as the primary option, with a gasoline V8 available on some configurations. Diesel engines in heavy-duty trucks cost several thousand dollars more than gasoline engines but are built to last longer under heavy use and provide significantly better towing performance. Fuel economy varies widely — a RAM 1500 with the V6 may achieve 20 to 24 miles per gallon on the highway, while a diesel 2500 may achieve 18 to 22 miles per gallon depending on load and driving conditions.
How RAM trucks compare to Ford and Chevrolet pickups
The pickup truck market in North America is dominated by three brands: Ford (F-Series), Chevrolet (Silverado), and RAM. All three offer light-duty, heavy-duty, and commercial models with similar engine options and price ranges. The main differences are in interior design, technology features, warranty terms, and brand reputation for reliability.
RAM trucks are often noted for interior comfort and technology — many RAM models include large touchscreen displays, smartphone integration, and premium seating as standard or low-cost options. Ford F-Series trucks have a long history and strong resale value. Chevrolet Silverado trucks are known for reliability and a wide dealer network. When comparing specific models, look at the towing capacity, payload rating, warranty length, and price for the exact configuration you want, because these vary significantly between brands and model years.
Warranty coverage and what it includes
RAM trucks sold new come with a basic warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This covers most mechanical and electrical components but does not cover wear items like brake pads, wiper blades, or routine maintenance. RAM also offers a powertrain warranty that extends to five years or 60,000 miles and covers the engine, transmission, transfer case, and drivetrain components.
If you buy a RAM truck used, the warranty coverage depends on the age and mileage of the vehicle and whether it was previously owned. A used RAM with remaining factory warranty will have the balance of the original warranty transferred to you. Some dealerships offer extended warranty plans that you can purchase at the time of sale, which extend coverage beyond the factory warranty period. Always ask the dealership what warranty is included before you sign the purchase agreement.
Financing a RAM truck through a dealership or outside lender
When you buy a RAM truck at a dealership, you have two main financing paths. You can finance through Chrysler Capital, the captive finance company owned by Stellantis, which offers loans directly through the dealership. Chrysler Capital may offer promotional rates or incentives during certain periods, and the dealership can tell you the terms and monthly payment before you commit.
You can also bring your own financing — a loan from your bank, credit union, or another lender. This gives you more negotiating power on the vehicle price because the dealership does not earn finance revenue from you. Either way, the dealership will handle the paperwork and title transfer. Before you go to the dealership, check your credit score and get pre-approved for a loan so you know what interest rate and monthly payment you can afford.
Common reasons people choose RAM trucks over competitors
Buyers often choose RAM trucks for specific reasons. The 1500 is popular with people who want a modern interior and technology features without paying for a heavy-duty truck they do not need. The diesel engine option appeals to people who tow regularly or drive long distances, because the fuel economy and torque justify the higher upfront cost. The 2500 and 3500 models attract contractors and business owners who need maximum towing and payload capacity and are willing to pay for a commercial-grade vehicle.
RAM also has a strong reputation for customer service at dealerships in many regions, though this varies by location. Some buyers prefer RAM because of the brand's marketing focus on capability and comfort, or because they have owned RAM trucks in the past and are satisfied with them. The best way to decide if a RAM truck is right for you is to test-drive one, compare the specific model and configuration you want against Ford and Chevrolet equivalents, and look at the total cost of ownership — purchase price, fuel economy, maintenance, and resale value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a RAM 1500 and a RAM 2500?
The RAM 1500 is a light-duty consumer truck with towing capacity around 7,000 to 12,000 pounds, while the RAM 2500 is a heavy-duty truck with towing capacity of 17,000 to 19,000 pounds. The 2500 has a stronger frame, heavier suspension, and is built for commercial work and sustained heavy loads. If you tow occasionally or carry light loads, the 1500 is sufficient and costs less. If you tow regularly or need maximum capacity, the 2500 is the better choice.
Is a RAM truck more expensive than a Ford F-150 or Chevrolet Silverado?
Prices are similar across all three brands for comparable models and configurations. A RAM 1500 crew cab with a V8 engine will cost roughly the same as a Ford F-150 or Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the same features. The final price depends on trim level, engine choice, options, and current incentives. Compare the exact configuration you want across all three brands before deciding.
Can I buy a used RAM truck and still have warranty coverage?
Yes, if the used RAM truck is still within the original factory warranty period (three years or 36,000 miles for basic coverage, five years or 60,000 miles for powertrain). The remaining warranty transfers to you as the new owner. If the truck is outside the factory warranty, you can purchase an extended warranty plan from the dealership, though this costs extra and has limits on what it covers.
What engine should I choose for a RAM 1500 if I tow occasionally?
If you tow occasionally, the 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine is sufficient and costs less upfront. If you tow regularly or pull heavy trailers, the 5.7-liter V8 or the 3.0-liter turbodiesel will give you better performance and reliability under load. The diesel costs more but delivers better fuel economy and higher torque, so it pays for itself over time if you tow frequently.
Where can I find a RAM truck for sale?
RAM trucks are sold at Chrysler-Dodge-RAM dealerships, which are franchised dealers authorized by Stellantis. You can search online for dealerships in your area, or visit RAM's official website to find dealers near you. You can also find used RAM trucks at independent used car dealers and through online marketplaces, though buying from a franchised dealership gives you access to factory warranty and certified pre-owned programs.