2006 Dodge Ram 2500/3500: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Dodge's heavy-duty pickup trucks add a larger crew-cab model for 2006. These Rams come in 3/4-ton 2500 and 1-ton 3500 models. Regular cab, 4-dr Quad Cab crew cab, and new-for-2006 Mega Cab crew cab models are offered. The Mega's cab is 20 inches longer than the Quad Cab's. Regular cab and Quad Cab offer 6.3-ft- and 8-ft-long cargo beds; Mega Cab uses the 6.3-ft bed. Regular cabs seat up to three passengers, the others up to six.

All versions offer rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive that should not be left engaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. Dual rear wheels are standard on 3500s except on the Quad Cab short bed and Mega Cab. Those models have single rear wheels. Chrysler's 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine is standard on all 2500 models, and it has 345 hp. The Hemi has 330 hp on regular and Quad Cab 3500s. Standard on Mega Cab 3500 and optional on other models is a 325-hp turbodiesel 6-cyl. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on all. Optional automatic transmissions are a 5-speed on the Hemi, a 4-speed on the diesel.

Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard on all Ram 2500/3500 models. Curtain side airbags that cover all seating rows are optional. Available features include a sunroof, leather upholstery, and a navigation system.

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 1/2-ton models. For heavy-duty or commercial use, consider 3/4- or 1-ton models.

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