Purchasing a heavy-duty pickup truck today involves handling a complex set of specifications similar to completing a tax form. Buyers must weigh engine choices, cab configurations, and axle ratios to find the right match for their needs. One recently tested configuration of the 2027 Ram 3500 offers a specific take on this market, pairing a diesel engine with a smaller cab to maximize towing potential.
Engine choices and towing limits
Ram has simplified its powertrain lineup by removing the distinction between two versions of its 6.7-liter turbodiesel engine. The current inline-six produces 430 horsepower and 1,075 pound-feet of torque across all trims. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, though this setup commands a five-figure price tag. A gasoline alternative, the 6.4-liter Hemi V8, generates 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque, offering a less expensive option for those who do not need maximum torque.
Specifying a truck correctly is critical because rear axle ratios can significantly alter towing numbers. The Hemi-powered version of the 3500 can tow up to 8,228 kilograms (18,140 pounds) or carry 3,438 kilograms (7,580 pounds) of payload. Replacing the engine with the Cummins diesel increases the maximum towing capacity to 16,792 kilograms (37,020 pounds) while reducing the maximum payload to 2,930 kilograms (6,460 pounds). The test truck in this review leaned toward the payload limit, reflecting the trade-offs involved in heavy-duty configurations.
The choice of cab style also impacts these figures. A Crew Cab with a long bed typically handles about 17,000 pounds of towing, while a Regular Cab with dual rear wheels changes the proportions and handling characteristics of the vehicle. This specific tester utilized the Regular Cab setup, which offers a different driving dynamic compared to the more popular crew configurations.
Styling and features
Equipped with a $1,295 Sport Appearance Package, the truck features color-keyed exterior details and Diamond Black Crystal pearl paint. This color choice masks some of the truck’s sculpted lines but gives the vehicle an aggressive stance. The proportions of the Regular Cab Dualie create a balanced stance, with flared rear quarters covering the dual rear wheels and a cab-to-box ratio that provides stability.
Inside the Big Horn trim, the cabin features a large central touchscreen surrounded by physical buttons and dials. The rear bulkhead is not tight against the seats, allowing for fore-aft adjustment and a degree of recline. The tester included the Tow Tech Plus Group, which adds a fully digital rearview mirror with a tow mode. This display offers a central view flanked by side views, helping the driver monitor the trailer and surrounding traffic easily.
This setup is designed for serious towing tasks. The truck pulled a fifth-wheel trailer weighing nearly 12,000 pounds without difficulty at about a third of its limit. Peak torque from the Cummins engine is available by just 1,800 rpm, allowing the truck to reach highway speeds with ease. An exhaust brake can be set for automatic or continuous engagement, providing engine braking control.
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While the truck is capable, the cost of ownership extends beyond the purchase price. The Cummins engine requires 11.3 liters of engine oil and 22.5 liters of coolant, making fluid changes more expensive than the Hemi’s 6.6-liter and 15.75-liter requirements. Diesel fuel prices are also rising, approaching $3.00 per liter in some regions, adding to the long-term expense. The test truck totaled $109,055 including freight, a figure that places this configuration firmly in the luxury segment despite the smaller cab.
Despite these costs, the Ram 3500 remains a capable contender in the heavy-duty segment. The combination of the Cummins engine, the Regular Cab layout, and the Big Horn trim creates a specific tool for a niche market. As the market consolidates and options shrink, having access to this level of configuration is increasingly rare. In conclusion, the Ram 3500 is still the best in its segment, offering a unique blend of power, capability, and features that set it apart from the competition.
Interior comfort and practicality
Regular cab trucks often create a sense of familiarity for enthusiasts. This feeling connects to a time when crew cabs were not the standard. The rear bulkhead in this configuration offers space behind the seats. This design allows for fore-aft adjustment and a degree of recline. It also provides a small area for thin storage items, though larger tools will not fit in this space.
Cost and Configuration Details
This tester carried a price tag of $109,055 including freight. The Monroney label sets an opening bid of $73,945, which is close to the base Tradesman trim. The Cummins engine and its transmission add $13,995, while the Max Tow package costs $1,095.
Additional options included a Tow Tech Plus Group for $1,795, a fifth-wheel hitch for $1,975, and the Sport Appearance Package for $1,295. This configuration is one of life’s great mysteries, as neither of the other Detroit truck makers has infused their heavy duty pickups with the same level of cabin materials and expressive design.
Pricing and conclusion
Key options also contributed to the final cost. The Max Tow package was $1,095. The fifth-wheel hitch from Mopar was $1,975. Adding the Level 2 Plus group, which includes an on-board generator, would bring the price even higher. The generator produces 2,400 watts, providing useful power at a campsite or jobsite. The Ram 3500 is a capable and feature-rich truck that stands out in its segment, and its unique configuration options make it a great choice for those who need a specific set of capabilities.
