5 Fixes for the Next Ram 2500/3500
We recently spent some time with a 2017 Ram 3500 in the desert and we found the heavy-duty hauler is starting to show its age. The last significant redesign for the Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks was for model-year 2009 and while the pair have gotten engine updates, new option packages and other cosmetic changes over the years, it's time for a more significant upgrade.
According to our sources, Ram planned to redesign the light-dutys for model-year 2018, but that update was , which means we'll have to wait at least another year for the 2500 and 3500 pickups as well. And that presents the perfect opportunity for us to put together something of a wish list of things we'd like to see in the next-generation Ram 2500/3500. Maybe you have a few more to add.
Our most recent test truck was a Longhorn Limited Mega Cab 4×4 dually with the turbo-diesel 6.7-liter inline-six-cylinder Cummins ($8,700) that makes 385 horsepower and 900 pounds-feet of torque. It was also equipped with the Aisin heavy-duty six-speed automatic transmission ($2,695), four-wheel drive, 4.10:1 axle gears ($125) and a rear air suspension with auto leveling ($1,595).
Here are five things that we'd like to see addressed or updated when the new Ram HDs do arrive:
1. A smoother transmission/powertrain: Our test vehicle had the beefiest diesel you can get from Ram and paired with the Aisin transmission, it was brutish on the road, especially when compared to the Ford and GM HDs. Shifts are felt through the entire cabin and the transmission is prone to gear hunting during easy, normal driving. It is worth mentioning that a down-rated Cummins that only makes 800 pounds-feet of torque is available with a Corporate 68RFE six-speed transmission, and that combination is much smoother.
2. More cameras/visibility: Though our test vehicle also added an optional bed camera ($345), it's not enough. A truck this big should be loaded with enough cameras to see all around. An around-view monitor would be helpful as would corner cameras up front, especially for parking. And as much as we like the swivel-up tow mirrors, there needs to be better extending and folding mirrors for the tow package.
3. A more comfortable backseat: The Ram 3500 Mega Cab had plenty of room in the backseat and is wonderfully reconfigurable, but the seat itself was strangely uncomfortable, especially given that the front seats are so plush. Though the seats are designed to fold up, which contributes to the lack of back support, we also found them lacking when it comes to thigh support. Taller passengers sit with their legs elevated off the bottom seat cushion, which quickly causes fatigue.
4. Ultimate tow package: Ram currently doesn't offer a Mega Cab model with a full 8-foot bed, since it doesn't have a long enough wheelbase to support it. Remember the Long-Hauler? The next redesign would be the perfect time to add one.
5. Android Auto/Apple CarPlay: These two cellphone-integration technologies are included in the newest generation of Uconnect, so if Ram simply upgrades the HDs with the current Uconnect, this will be an easy item to scratch off our list.
Cars.com photos by Evan Sears
