2005 Dodge Ram 2500/3500: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Dodge's 3/4-ton 2500 and 1-ton 3500 pickups are heavy-duty versions of the 1/2-ton Ram 1500. They come in regular cab or Quad Cab 4-dr crew cab models--a larger crew cab model called Mega Cab will be offered in 2006. Quad Cabs get a 3-place rear seat and either a 6.3- or 8-ft cargo bed; regular cabs come with the 8-ft bed. All versions offer rear-wheel drive or 4WD that should not be left engaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. Dual rear wheels are standard on 3500s except the Quad Cab short bed, which comes standard with single rear wheels. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard on all models. Curtain side airbags that protect all seating positions are optional.

Standard engine on all models except the 3500 Quad Cab short bed is a 5.7-liter V8. In the 2500s it has 345 hp, in 3500s it has 330 hp. Standard on 3500 Quad Cab short bed and optional on all others is a 325-hp 5.9-liter 6-cyl turbodiesel. With either engine, manual transmission is standard, automatic optional.

For 2005, Dodge added a 2500 model called Power Wagon. Intended as an off-road ready heavy-duty pickup, it includes electronic locking front and rear differentials, electronic disconnecting sway bar, 33-inch BF Goodrich All-Terrain tires, Warn 12,000 lb winch, and 3-inch heavy-gauge steel rock rails. Other additions to the 2500/3500 line for '05 include an available sunroof on Quad Cab models and Sirius satellite radio.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Pickup Trucks are traditionally the vehicle of choice for heavy-duty hauling and towing. They offer an array of cab styles and bed lengths and usually feature powerful V8 or diesel engines. For personal use, consider light-duty ½-ton models. For heavy-duty or commercial use, consider ¾- or 1-ton models.

Our Best Buys include the Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-Series, and GMC Sierra. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Ram, Nissan Titan, and Toyota Tundra.