Stellantis is making significant strides in reshaping its Ram heavy-duty truck lineup with the introduction of the redesigned Ram 2500 and 3500 models. This initiative comes at a critical juncture for the brand, as it attempts to recover from three consecutive years of declining sales. The revamped trucks not only boast enhancements in interior and exterior design but also feature a powerful new engine aimed at invigorating consumer interest.
A standout feature of the new Ram heavy-duty trucks is the introduction of a 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel engine that delivers an impressive 430 horsepower, coupled with a class-leading torque rating of 1,075 foot-pounds. This engine is particularly appealing to heavy-duty truck enthusiasts who rely on their vehicles for demanding tasks such as towing and hauling. Additionally, a 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 engine option is available, providing 405 horsepower and 429 foot-pounds of torque. These powertrains are designed to cater to various customer needs, ensuring that operators can select the best engine for their specific tasks.
Despite the positive alterations to the Ram lineup, the brand faces an uphill battle against significant competition. In 2024, Ram’s sales plummeted by 19% year-over-year, primarily driven by a 16% drop in sales of its pickup trucks. Competitors like Ford and GM’s Chevrolet have maintained stable sales, putting additional pressure on Ram to innovate and attract buyers. Reflecting on this unfavorable trend, Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis has been candid about the challenges facing the brand, attributing much of the decline to delays in rolling out the earlier Ram 1500 model.
As the new heavy-duty trucks prepare to hit the U.S. market in the first quarter of this year, they will command a starting price of approximately $47,560—roughly $2,300 more than current models. The model lineup includes various trims—Tradesman, Big Horn/Lone Star, Laramie, Rebel, Power Wagon, Limited Longhorn, and Limited—offering customers a wide selection tailored to their preferences and needs. This tiered pricing and model structure positions Stellantis to strategically capture a broader market segment, catering to both entry-level buyers and premium truck enthusiasts.
The stakes are high for Stellantis as it strives to regain its footing in the highly competitive truck market. The redesign of the Ram heavy-duty lineup is a part of a larger effort to revitalize sales and reestablish brand loyalty among consumers. The introduction of powerful engine options and a diverse model range could provide the right leverage to regain lost ground. However, the brand must successfully execute this strategy to bring customers back into showrooms and ultimately drive sales in a challenging market landscape.