8 Key Features of the 2023 RAM 3500 Heavy-Duty Truck
Updated on April 24, 2024 / 4 min read
Dodge trucks have long been celebrated for being powerful, dependable vehicles. One of them, the 2023 RAM 3500, is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its strength, reliability, and towing capacity. Apart from delivering an impressive performance, the truck is also considered more comfortable than other pickups in the segment, thanks to the brand’s focus on luxury and technology. If considering this truck, knowing its key features can help one make an informed buying decision.
1. Engine and performance
Buyers can choose from three engine options when customizing their RAM 3500. A 6.4-liter V-8 engine is standard. It generates 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque, and it is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission system. Those looking for more towing power can choose from two available diesel engines. The first is a 6.7-liter Cummins diesel inline-six, paired with either rear- or all-wheel drive, which delivers up to 370 horsepower and 850 pound-feet of torque. The second is a high-output version, generating 420 horsepower and 1,075 pound-feet of torque.
2. Towing and payload capacity
Each engine configuration comes with a different hauling and payload capacity. The standard V-8 is rated at 7,680 pounds for payloads. This goes up dramatically with the high-output diesel engine, which has a maximum tow rating of 37,090 pounds.
3. Fuel economy
The EPA does not calculate fuel economy and efficiency for larger commercial vehicles like the RAM 3500. That said, some reports have compiled data from various tests to give the pickup a fuel economy rating. According to one such testing agency, the RAM 3500 with the high-output Cummins diesel engine, four-wheel drive, and dual rear-wheel axle offers 16 mpg, while the standard engine offers 18 mpg on the highway.
4. Interiors
Like most other pickup trucks, the RAM 3500 comes in many cab layouts, trims, and variants, so buyers can choose one that meets their unique needs. The choices one makes here determine the interior materials, passenger space, and other features inside the truck. No matter the choice, buyers can rest assured that they are getting the best interior in the segment, as the brand promises luxury car-level detailing, tons of comfort, and a clean design. On the higher trims, buyers get a more premium finish with leather-covered seats and striped wood and gold trim, among other things. This luxury is further accentuated by the acoustic glass and the audio system’s active noise cancellation, offering a quiet ride inside. The RAM 3500 has a multilevel center console that can comfortably accommodate a 15-inch laptop.
5. Exteriors
Given its imposing design and timeless look, it’s no surprise that Dodge calls the RAM 3500 a “car that was built for the spotlight.” Some features that tend to impress buyers include the class-exclusive available cargo management system that offers two lockable, drainable storage bins with LED lighting, an available bed outlet that produces up to 115 volts/400 watts, and available integrated LED bed lighting. The truck can also be equipped with a Mopar® Sport Performance Hood, power running boards for easy entry and exit, a dampened tailgate, power release, trailer tow mirrors, and more to enhance both visual appeal and functionality.
6. Technology
The RAM 3500 heavy-duty trucks aren’t just muscle. They also have many tech features in the cabin to enhance the driving experience. Most notably, each truck features a 12.3-inch configurable instrument cluster with an available 12-inch infotainment screen that is intuitive and easy to use. Not only is it well-positioned, but it also responds rather swiftly, enhancing the user experience. This system also features navigation, a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. To improve the acoustic experience in the cab, one can also add the 17-speaker/900-watt surround system in the top Limited trim.
The truck’s interior also has five USB ports and up to three 115-volt outlets to keep the devices charged on the go. Other standout tech features include a digital rearview camera, 360° surround view cameras, voice recognition, and RAM Connect services.
Business owners can also opt for the RAM Telematics system, which will help them access real-time information about vehicles, drivers, and their productivity when paired with a telematics provider.
7. Safety
The NHTSA, or National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, awarded the 2023 RAM 3500 Heavy Duty a four-star safety rating. It has a host of standard and available safety and driver assistance features, like forward collision warning and automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, front and rear park assist, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The pickup also has a trailer reverse steering control, an adaptive forward lighting system, a rear seat reminder alert, airbag protection, lane departure warning, and an LED trailer hitch light.
8. Price
The 2023 RAM 3500 Crew Cab is available in six trims, each priced differently based on the specs offered.
- Tradesman, which costs $54,385
- Lone Star, which is priced at $59,325
- Big Horn, which costs $59,325
- Laramie, which sells for $68,190
- Longhorn, which costs $82,570
- Limited, which is priced at $86,140
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