The RAM 2500/3500 Crew Cab II (DT facelift), introduced for the 2025 model year, represents the latest iteration of Ram’s heavy-duty pickup truck lineup. This generation, building upon the DT platform first introduced in 2019, receives a significant refresh focusing on interior refinement, technology upgrades, and continued capability. Among the engine options available, the 6.4-liter HEMI V8 paired with the TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission is a popular choice, offering a balance of power, towing capacity, and everyday usability. This configuration positions itself as the standard engine for those needing substantial capability without opting for the more expensive and complex Cummins diesel options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | RAM |
| Model | 2500/3500 |
| Generation | 2500/3500 Crew Cab II (DT, facelift 2025) |
| Type (Engine) | 2500 6.4 HEMI V8 (405 Hp) TorqueFlite |
| Start of production | 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 139.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 200.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 405 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 582 Nm @ 4000 rpm, 429.26 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 5800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | HEMI |
| Engine displacement | 6417 cm3, 391.59 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.9 mm, 4.09 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm, 3.72 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l, 6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt |
| Coolant | 15.75 l, 16.64 US qt | 13.86 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2900-2902 kg, 6393.41 – 6397.81 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4491-4536 kg, 9900.96 – 10000.17 lbs. |
| Max load | 1591-1634 kg, 3507.55 – 3602.35 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1600 l, 56.5 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 117 l, 30.91 US gal | 25.74 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 7902 kg, 17420.93 lbs. |
| Length | 6066 mm, 238.82 in. |
| Width | 2120 mm, 83.46 in. |
| Height | 1987 mm, 78.23 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3785 mm, 149.02 in. |
| Front track | 1745 mm, 68.7 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1729 mm, 68.07 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 188 mm, 7.4 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.6 m, 47.9 ft. |
| Approach angle | 18.8° |
| Departure angle | 23.6° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20.3° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission TorqueFlite |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 359.9×39.1 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 357.9×34 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/70 R17; 275/70 R18; 285/60 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this variant is the 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine, internally designated as part of the Generation III HEMI family. This engine boasts a robust cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It utilizes a traditional overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VCT) to optimize performance and efficiency. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for consistent combustion. The 6.4L HEMI produces 405 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 429 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. This power is then channeled through the TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission, a well-regarded unit known for its smooth shifts and durability. The TorqueFlite transmission is designed to handle the high torque output of the HEMI V8 and provides a wide range of gear ratios for optimal acceleration and towing performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.4L HEMI V8 with the TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic delivers a confident and capable driving experience. While not as quick as some of the lighter-duty pickup trucks, the RAM 2500/3500 offers ample power for everyday driving and demanding tasks. The TorqueFlite transmission’s eight gears help keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive acceleration. Compared to the available Cummins diesel engines, this gasoline V8 offers a more refined and quieter driving experience, albeit with lower fuel economy and maximum torque. The gear ratios are tuned for towing and hauling, prioritizing low-end grunt over outright speed. The automatic transmission eliminates the need for constant shifting, making it a more convenient option for drivers who frequently encounter stop-and-go traffic or long highway drives.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 6.4L HEMI V8 was typically offered on mid-range and higher trim levels of the RAM 2500/3500, such as the Big Horn/Lone Star, Laramie, and Limited. Standard features generally included cloth or vinyl upholstery, air conditioning, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and power windows and locks. Higher trims added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a premium sound system, navigation, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras could include a sunroof, upgraded wheels, and various appearance packages.
Chassis & Braking
The RAM 2500/3500 utilizes a heavy-duty chassis designed to withstand the stresses of towing and hauling. The front suspension consists of a coil spring and rigid axle setup with a transverse stabilizer bar. The rear suspension also employs a rigid axle configuration with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The size of the front discs is 359.9×39.1 mm, while the rear discs measure 357.9×34 mm. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard equipment.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.4L HEMI V8/TorqueFlite combination was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It offered a compelling alternative to the diesel engines, particularly for those who didn’t require the maximum towing capacity or who preferred the smoother and quieter operation of a gasoline engine. Fuel economy, however, was a common criticism, as the HEMI V8 is less fuel-efficient than the Cummins diesel. Compared to the 5.7L HEMI V8, the 6.4L offered a significant power increase, making it a more suitable choice for heavier-duty applications. Reliability has been generally good, with the HEMI V8 proving to be a durable and dependable engine.
Legacy
The 6.4L HEMI V8 has established itself as a reliable and capable engine in the RAM 2500/3500 lineup. On the used car market, models equipped with this powertrain tend to hold their value well, particularly those in good condition with a well-maintained service history. While newer models offer even more advanced technology and features, the 2025 RAM 2500/3500 with the 6.4L HEMI V8 remains a popular choice for those seeking a powerful and capable heavy-duty pickup truck.
