2026 RAM 3500 Review — The King of Heavy-Duty Trucks Returns with Power, Luxury, and Precision

The 2026 RAM 3500 has arrived, and it’s raising the bar for heavy-duty pickups yet again. Known for its unmatched towing capacity, refined interiors, and world-class engineering, the latest RAM 3500 blends brute force with sophisticated luxury. Whether you’re hauling thousands of pounds or cruising in comfort, this truck proves why it’s often called the “King of the Hill.”

Two Engines, One Goal: Absolute Power

Under the hood, the 2026 RAM 3500 offers two powerhouse options designed to suit every driver’s needs.

1. High-Output 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel

• Power: 430 horsepower
• Torque: 1,075 lb-ft
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• Towing Capacity: Up to 36,610 lbs

This diesel engine is the ultimate workhorse — built to conquer the toughest jobs, climb steep grades, and handle extreme towing conditions with ease.

2. 6.4L HEMI V8 Gas Engine

• Power: 410 horsepower
• Torque: 429 lb-ft
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• Towing Capacity: Up to 18,150 lbs

Ideal for those who prefer gasoline engines, this HEMI delivers smooth acceleration, reliable torque, and excellent throttle response for everyday work or recreational hauling.

Both powertrains come paired with RAM’s latest automatic transmission, ensuring smoother shifts and optimized fuel efficiency no matter how heavy the load.

Towing Power That Defines the Segment

If there’s one area where the 2026 RAM 3500 dominates, it’s towing. Equipped with the High-Output Cummins engine, the truck’s 36,610-pound towing capacity outshines nearly every competitor in its class.

Whether you’re hauling a large trailer, heavy construction equipment, or a boat, the RAM 3500 handles it effortlessly thanks to:

• Reinforced high-strength steel frame
• Advanced trailer brake system
• Rear auto-level air suspension for stability
• Tow mode with enhanced traction control

Even with the gas engine, the RAM 3500 delivers an impressive 18,150-pound towing rating — proof that this truck was engineered for serious work.

Payload Capacity and Durability

When it comes to payload, the 2026 RAM 3500 performs just as impressively.

• Gas Engine Payload: Up to 7,590 lbs
• Diesel Engine Payload: Up to 6,050 lbs

This capacity means business owners, tradespeople, and adventurers can rely on the RAM 3500 to carry everything from building materials to off-road gear without compromise. The truck bed is lined with durable spray-in protection and features multiple tie-down points, LED lighting, and a power tailgate option for easy access.

Built for Luxury as Much as Labor

RAM has mastered the art of combining power with prestige, and the 2026 RAM 3500 is living proof. Despite being a heavy-duty hauler, it offers a cabin experience that rivals luxury SUVs.

Interior Highlights:

• Premium leather seats (available in Laramie and Limited trims)
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Uconnect 5
• Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless connectivity
• Premium audio by Harman Kardon
• Acoustic glass and sound-deadening materials for a whisper-quiet cabin

Even base trims boast durable yet comfortable interiors, making every journey — whether to a job site or a long-distance trip — enjoyable.

Technology and Safety Features

The 2026 RAM 3500 doesn’t just deliver brute strength — it’s packed with cutting-edge safety and driver-assistance technology.

Key systems include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking
• Lane Departure Warning and Blind-Spot Monitoring
• 360° Surround View Camera System
• Trailer Reverse Steering Control
• Automatic Emergency Braking and Park Assist

RAM’s advanced sensor suite ensures that even when towing thousands of pounds, you remain in control and protected.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2026 RAM 3500 lineup offers several trims to suit different lifestyles and budgets, each designed for a unique balance of function and luxury.

Trim	Highlights	Starting Price (Approx.)
Tradesman	Basic work-ready trim, durable interiors	$49,000
Big Horn	Chrome accents, upgraded tech	$54,000
Laramie	Leather interior, advanced infotainment	$62,000
Limited Longhorn	Western-inspired luxury, wood trim	$70,000
Limited	Full premium trim, max luxury and safety	$78,000+

This variety ensures there’s a RAM 3500 for every kind of buyer — from contractors who prioritize utility to executives who want top-tier comfort in a powerhouse package.

Ride Comfort and Driving Experience

Driving the 2026 RAM 3500 is an experience that blends strength with sophistication. The suspension tuning offers excellent stability under heavy loads, while the adaptive steering system provides a surprisingly nimble feel for a truck of this size.

Whether you’re towing, cruising on the highway, or navigating off-road terrain, the RAM 3500 remains composed, quiet, and confident. The cab noise reduction technology adds a layer of serenity uncommon in heavy-duty pickups.

Why the RAM 3500 Continues to Reign Supreme

With record-breaking torque, unmatched towing power, and a cabin rivaling luxury sedans, the 2026 RAM 3500 continues to be the gold standard of heavy-duty pickups. It doesn’t just do the job — it dominates it.

This truck appeals to workers, adventurers, and luxury seekers alike, proving that capability and comfort can coexist perfectly.

FAQs

1. What are the engine options in the 2026 RAM 3500?
It offers a 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel with 430 HP and 1,075 lb-ft torque, and a 6.4L HEMI V8 with 410 HP and 429 lb-ft torque.

2. How much can the 2026 RAM 3500 tow?
Up to 36,610 pounds with the diesel engine, or 18,150 pounds with the gas engine.

3. What is the payload capacity?
The gas engine offers 7,590 lbs, and the diesel version carries up to 6,050 lbs.

4. Does it have luxury features?
Yes. Premium trims include leather interiors, ventilated seats, a 12-inch touchscreen, and a Harman Kardon sound system.

5. What’s the starting price of the 2026 RAM 3500?
The base model starts at around $49,000, while the fully loaded Limited trim can reach about $78,000.