You're stuck between two solid choices, and that's not a bad problem to have. The 2025 Ram 2500 has proven itself with reliable performance and affordable pricing, while the 2026 model offers serious tech upgrades and features. Whether you're hauling construction gear during the week or taking the boat to Lake Texoma on Saturday, both models have you covered. We'll break down what matters most so you can pick the right truck for your work, family, and wallet.
​
What's New in the 2026 Ram 2500
Two fresh faces join the lineup for the 2026 model year. The Black Express comes with a sport performance hood, body-colored bumpers, 20-inch black wheels, and cloth seating. The Warlock comes with a range of off-road features, including black exterior accents, 34-inch Goodyear DuraTrac all-terrain tires, and Bilstein shocks tuned for dirt roads and pavement. The available RamBox Cargo Management System gives you weatherproof, lockable storage bins with LED lighting.
The Uconnect 5 infotainment system remains largely unchanged, with an optional 14.5-inch touch screen — the biggest in its class — offering responsive and intuitive access to navigation and entertainment. Other available features include a 10.25-inch display for your passenger, a digital rearview mirror that shows live video, and a 900-watt Harman Kardon system with 17 speakers for premium interior sound quality. Dual wireless charging pads keep your devices powered during those long hauls to job sites.
You can choose between the same two engines as last year: the 6.7L Cummins High-Output Turbo Diesel I-6 that cranks out 430 hp with best-in-class 1,075 lb-ft of torque, or the 6.4L HEMI V-8 that outputs 405 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque. A big change for 2026 is that every model will now come with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty covering your engine, transmission, and major drivetrain parts.
What the 2025 Ram 2500 Offers
The 2025 model earned a 9.4/10 rating from U.S. News and grabbed the No. 1 spot in Heavy-Duty Trucks. Additionally, the Cummins engine reaches 60 mph in about 6.9 seconds, an improvement over the 2024 model's 7.5 to 8.2 seconds. Whether you're running between Dallas job sites or heading out to the lake on weekends, this truck can handle anything.
When it's time to get serious about hauling, you can tow up to 20,000 pounds with the right setup, with a payload capacity of up to 4,420 pounds. Seven different configurations, ranging from $45,565 to $73,460, give you plenty of options. Trims include the Tradesman, Big Horn/Lone Star, Laramie, Rebel, Power Wagon, Limited, and Limited Longhorn.
Comparing the 2025 vs. 2026 Ram 2500
Both years can pull 20,000 pounds when set up right, but the 2026 model makes the job easier with power-adjustable telescopic mirrors. These mirrors can extend and retract, helping you see better when towing. The suspension also got an upgrade, so you'll feel fewer bumps while hauling heavy equipment. Both engines carry over, but the 2026's tech improvements make everything work better together. The available Mopar Sport Performance Hood in the 2026 model is one of the other differences between these model years.
Safety-wise, both come with a wide range of standard features, including forward collision warning and electronic stability control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also available.
Pricing remains similar for 2026, starting at $45,680 for the base trim and reaching $73,730 for the top-tier Limited. The new Black Express starts at $51,795, and the Warlock at $55,225. The 10-year/100,000-mile warranty on the 2026 provides serious peace of mind for a major purchase like this. On the other hand, you could find good deals on used 2025 models if you're looking for the most budget-friendly option. At Huffines Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram (CJDR) Plano, we offer a range of new and used vehicles to suit your lifestyle.
Choose the Right Ram 2500 for Your Needs
The 2026 Ram 2500 offers significant improvements, but the 2025 version is still a great choice. If you need maximum capability without paying for the latest bells and whistles, the 2025 Ram 2500 makes perfect sense. However, if you want the newest tech, the 2026 model is for you. It offers real improvements and more flexibility with new model choices.
Either way, you're getting a truck that's comfortable enough for family trips but tough enough for whatever job you throw at it. Visit Huffines CJDR Plano to test-drive both trucks and see which one best fits your needs and budget.
Image via RAM trucks
