Is The 6.4-Liter HEMI A Good Engine? Tour The Ram 2500 Engine Options
The standard Ram 2500 engine is the 6.4-liter HEMI V-8, a true workhorse with the performance and the power to thrill. For the 2025 model year, you get the option of this standard gas V-8, which can tow up to 17,750 pounds,1 or the latest version of the legendary Cummins® turbo-diesel powertrain, which offers a max tow rating of 20,000 pounds.1 Both engines haul with ease, elevating the Ram 2500 to powerhouse status.
At Wally's CDJR of Amsterdam, our team knows this all-rounder heavy-duty truck inside and out. To help you choose between the 2025 Ram 2500 engine options, let's review their specs and features below.
The Two 2025 Ram 2500 Engine Options
As we've briefly touched on, two Ram 2500 engine choices are available. The 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 is a solid addition to any heavy-duty truck. Standard on most trims of the Ram 2500, it gets you on the move with 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet torque. Its sophisticated engineering lets the 2025 Ram 2500 tow up to 17,750 pounds.1 This engine also provides a maximum payload rating of 4,420 pounds.2
The 2025 Ram 2500 engine specs with the HEMI V-8 are enhanced by an eight-speed automatic transmission and 4x2 or 4x4, helping this truck achieve high levels of strength and efficiency.
Alternatively, if you have to do it all – and then some – the 2025 Ram 2500 diesel powertrain makes the hardest jobs look trivial. This powerhouse is the iconic high-output 6.7-liter Cummins® turbo-diesel I-6. As the latest iteration, it makes 1,075 pound-feet of torque and 430 horsepower, allowing it to tow up to 20,000 pounds when properly equipped or haul a maximum of 2,740 pounds of payload.2 By utilizing innovative engineering paired with an ultra-robust eight-speed automatic transmission and 4x2 or 4x4, you can enjoy a smooth ride while crushing heavy-duty jobs.
These Ram truck engine sizes are over 6 liters, giving drivers power on tap at any speed. Plus, these Ram 2500 engines pair with various fuel tanks with up to 50 gallons of capacity, letting you take on long workdays without needing to stop constantly.
2025 Ram 2500 Towing Capacity and Payload Rating Comparison
While the Ram 2500 engine you choose is critical to your total payload and towing limit, a handful of other factors influence your truck's capability: the trim level, the cab and bed configuration, and the drivetrain.
Here are a few examples of how the 2025 Ram 2500 configurations vary by trim:
| Ram 2500 Tradesman | Ram 2500 Big Horn | Ram 2500 Laramie | Ram 2500 Rebel | Ram 2500 Power Wagon | Ram 2500 Limited Long Horn | Ram 2500 Limited | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 6.4L V-8 HEMI | 6.4L V-8 HEMI | 6.4L V-8 HEMI | 6.4L V-8 HEMI | 6.4L V-8 HEMI | 6.4L V-8 HEMI | 6.4L V-8 HEMI |
| Horsepower | 405 | 405 | 405 | 405 | 405 | 405 | 405 |
| Torque | 429 lb-ft | 429 lb-ft | 429 lb-ft | 429 lb-ft | 429 lb-ft | 429 lb-ft | 429 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | 4x2 or 4x4 | 4x2 or 4x4 | 4x2 or 4x4 | 4x4 | 4x4 | 4x2 or 4x4 | 4x2 or 4x4 |
| Standard Cab Type | Regular Cab | Regular Cab | Crew | Crew | Crew | Crew | Crew |
| Standard Bed Size | 8 ft | 8 ft | 8 ft | 6 ft 4 in | 6 ft 4 in | 6 ft 4 in | 6 ft 4 in |
The Tradesman, as your base trim, pulls double duty as a workhorse with its massive towing capacity when utilizing the standard 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine. The 2025 Ram 2500 Payload capacity is 3,940 pounds in this trim's standard configuration.2
The Big Horn strikes a middle ground between the Tradesman and higher trims, offering ample comfort to make the job enjoyable without sacrificing capability. Even when paired with 4x2 and an 8-foot bed, the Laramie model offers impressive towing and payload capacity.
The Rebel and Power Wagon serve as the off-roaders of the Ram 2500 lineup. Despite its slightly lower towing capability compared to the other examples, it has many features to keep it prepared for the road less traveled, like a unique Rebel suspension and skid plates. The Limited Long Horn and Limited are trims with luxury as their focus. The heavier materials and additional features can cause the payload limits to take a small hit.
No matter the trim, the Ram 2500 torque and horsepower output with the HEMI engine is immense, and it just gets better with the Cummins® turbo-diesel. The diesel option is available across the lineup, although some configurations, such as the Ram 2500 Tradesman Regular Cab 8-foot bed, don't offer it.
2025 Ram 2500 Feature Showcase
When you shop our new Ram 2500 inventory, you'll come across an array of amenities that make your driving experience truly worthwhile. Drivers can enjoy available LED fog lamps, all-terrain tires, rock rails, and a center stop lamp with a cargo-view camera. Inside, vinyl, cloth, or leather seating is equipped, along with available amenities like a Uconnect 5 Nav 14.4-inch touchscreen, rear under-seat storage, and a power sunroof.
Of course, we can't forget to mention the multiple features that make towing endeavors with your Ram 2500 a breeze, including standard Trailer Sway Damping, available Trailer Reverse Steering, and available Trailer TPMS. The available air suspension with a bed lowering mode can make hooking up your trailer much easier, and some trims come with integrated hardware for fifth-wheel/gooseneck towing capability.
Experience the 2025 Ram 2500 Performance at Wally's CDJR of Amsterdam
The only way you can really feel the difference between the HEMI and Cummins® engines is through a test drive at Wally's CDJR of Amsterdam. Explore the Ram 2500 horsepower and torque performance, then utilize our CDJR lease specials or finance offers to potentially find an excellent deal on your next workhorse.
Whether you're interested in a specific model, such as a 2025 Ram 2500 Big Horn 6.7-liter Diesel 4x4 Crew Cab Short Box, or want to check out all new vehicles, our friendly staff is here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the life expectancy of a Ram 2500 6.4-liter HEMI?
Like many engines for heavy-duty trucks, the life expectancy of a 6.4-liter HEMI engine ranges from 200,000 to 300,000 miles on average when properly cared for. Achieving the higher end of this range requires proper maintenance schedules, good driving habits, and conscientious towing and hauling. Contact us for more information on how to get the most out of your hardworking HEMI engine.
How many miles per gallon does a 6.4-liter HEMI get?
The EPA does not provide estimated MPG ratings for heavy-duty trucks like the Ram 2500. However, you can expect competitive mileage out of a full tank of gas using the 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 and the truck's large fuel tank, which typically holds 31 or 32 gallons. Your trim and total payload while towing will affect fuel efficiency, so fill up before the job.
What advancements in engine technology are featured in the Ram 2500?
The 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine utilizes variable valve timing for improved performance and a multi-displacement system with fuel-saver technology to make your drives fuel efficient. The 6.7-liter Cummins® turbo-diesel powertrain integrates a heavy-duty engine cooling function, selective catalytic reduction, and electronically controlled throttle. Learn more about the Ram 2500 engine options today.
Ask Us Anything About the Ram 2500
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1When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
2When properly equipped. Max payload ratings shown for base configuration. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload weights. Contact dealer for details.