Here’s the ’20 RAM 2500 (Tradesman) in its most revealing camo to date.
The current RAM HDs are getting long in the tooth, having been on sale since 2010 and only receiving a minor facelift in 2014 (lights, grille, updated interior). The new HD trucks look to fall in line with the recently debuted 1500, and in the process, ditch the crosshair grille (which will only live on via the Charger, Durango, Journey and Grand Caravan)—a hallmark of the truck since the mid-’80s.
Other exterior styling runs parallel to the 1500, but in a more muscular fashion. Inside, the RAM HD mimics the 1500 with thoughtful design and premium materials. Tech should come from the Uconnect 4, with or without navigation, with an 8.4-in. screen and the optional Uconnect 4C NAV infotainment system with the massive portrait-oriented 12-in. touchscreen center console display.
Current power is derived from three engines—A 383hp 5.7L V8 with a compressed natural gas option, a 410hp 6.4L V8 and a 6.7L turbodiesel inline-six—available in three tunes: 350 hp with 660 lb.-ft., 370 hp with 800 lb.-ft., and 385 hp with 930 lb.-ft. torque rating. The 5.7L and 6.4L are paired to a six-speed automatic transmission, while the three versions of 6.7L can be paired to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic. Expect the 6.7 to get an additional power bump in hopes of one-upping the F-350 and Silverado 3500, which currently feature more horsepower and similar torque.
The next RAM HD is slated to move its production location from Saltillo, Mexico, to Warren, Michigan, in 2020, in time for the next-generation heavy-duty’s start of production. Expect an official debut sometime in 2019, with Detroit being an obvious choice.
Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde