The 2025 Ram 1500 has launched as a real classic turned cool. With ten trims to choose from, each pickup in this year's lineup is equipped with a refined exterior, modernized interior, and a powerful new engine under the hood. Its combination of styling and off-road capabilities even cemented its position as MotorTrend's 2025 Truck of the Year. Let's talk about the features and specs that make this revamp worth a test drive today.
Selecting MotorTrend's Truck of The Year
Vehicles vying for MotorTrend's Truck of the Year undergo a rigorous series of performance tests at a professional automotive proving ground. They're evaluated on real-world roads, both loaded and unloaded, and while towing. This mimics the challenges of real-world use, testing both off-road and daily usability. The winner is then chosen based on the following judging criteria:
- Engineering Excellence
- Performance of Intended Function
- Advancement in Design
- Efficiency
- Safety
- Value
This year, the classic pickup made a comeback with a wider range of capabilities in these areas than before. As MotorTrend's CEO put it, "It's a $40,000 car and goes 0 to 60mph in five seconds, and can tow over 10,000 lbs. It just was a real winner."
The Truck of The Year Contenders
This will be the seventh time MotorTrend has highlighted the Ram 1500 for Truck of the Year and for good reason. It's still number one in full-sized trucks, and each trim offers its own unique character and personality. The Ram 1500 Warlock, RHO, and Tungsten were sent in from Ram and among the lot of contenders for this year's award. Other Truck of the Year competitors included:
- 2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV
- 2024 Ford Ranger
- 2024 GMC Sierra EV
- 2025 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
- 2025 Rivian R1T
- 2024 Tesla Cybertruck
- 2024 Toyota Tacoma
Despite going up against a flashy mix of electric vehicles and powertrains (even a full-sized van), the 2025 Ram 1500 stood out for effortless loading and maneuvering, plus max towing. All said, the tow capacity and smooth ride wasn't the most surprising feature of this launch. For longtime Ram fans, the real impression of this truck is what makes its capacity all possible-a brand new I-6 engine.
The 2025 Ram 1500 and It's All New Engine
Each engine in the 2025 Ram 1500 lineup is an "SST," for straight-six turbo. There are then two versions of the SST, standard-output and high-output. While much lighter in weight than the line's former engine, the Hemi, it's also more powerful and economically efficient. For example, the standard-output engine makes strides in its highway and combined miles-per-gallon in comparison to the Hemi. New engines among this lineup include:
- 3.0L I6 Hurricane SO Twin Turbo
- 3.0L I6 Hurricane HO Twin Turbo
- 3.6L Pentastar® V6 24V VVT eTorque Engine
The Hurricane standard-output version is equipped with 420 horsepower and 469 lbs of torque. The high-output version comes in at a massive 540 horsepower and 521 lbs of torque! So, yes this truck has a towing capacity of over 10,000 lbs and still gets the job done with comfort, class, and value.
Specs and Features of the Ram 1500 Engine
Specific features of the twin-turbo that make it worth the switch from the Hemi? It has two turbochargers, each one feeding three cylinders. This means quick power when you hit the gas. It's also equipped with high-pressure fuel injection for an added boost directly to the engine.
Other features like dual overhead cams and variable valve timing, special cylinder coating, along with an energy-saving variable oil pump, all align with Stellantis' goal to cut emissions yet deliver colossal power with this engine.
As far as the V6 eTorque engine, it is efficient, getting 25 miles-per-gallon on the highway. It's available in the 2025 Tradesman®, Tradesman HFE®, and Big Horn® trims. Maximum payload capacity for this engine is 2,370 lbs, horsepower is 305, and torque is 269.
Trims in The Ram 1500 Lineup
Boasting more best-in-class features like the largest brake rotors and touchscreen in its class (14.5 inches), the 2025 Ram 1500 lineup provides an impression for everyone. Find the perfect match for your needs, budget, and preferences among this ten-trim lineup:
- Tradesman®
- Tradesman HFE®
- Big Horn®
- Warlock
- Laramie®
- Rebel®
- RHO
- Limited
- Limited Longhorn®
- Tungsten
The Tradesman
The Tradesman is built for those who need Ram strength at an affordable price. Starting at $40,275, it combines capability with modern features like an 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, and LED headlights. Rugged enough for hard work, yet equipped for today's driver. When equipped with the Hurricane SO engine, max towing capacity is 11,560 lbs.
Big Horn
The Big Horn brings versatility and toughness to the lineup. With customizable options and added comfort, it's ready for whatever the road, or worksite, demands. For this trim and up, you can opt for the RamBox® storage system for extra utility or a deployable bed step for convenience. It's built to deliver where it matters most. When equipped with the Hurricane SO engine, max towing capacity is 11,560 lbs.
The Warlock
The Warlock delivers for those craving rugged adventures. This truck pushes a 420 horsepower engine, a 1.0-inch suspension lift, Bilstein shocks, and steel springs. That means, you get to take on the toughest terrains. This model is nearly 150 lbs lighter than its predecessor due to a lighter engine. Rugged, lightweight, and built for the wild. MotorTrend even tested a load of nearly 1000 lbs. When equipped with the Hurricane SO engine, max towing capacity is 11,560 lbs.
The RHO
Inspired by Baja trucks, the RHO is made for high-speed off-roading. This trim comes equipped with adjustable suspension and advanced compression systems for smoother landings and the best driving experience. From the Ram website: 'More Horsepower Per Dollar Than Any Other Premium Off-Road Full-Size Pickup.' When equipped with the Hurricane HO engine, max towing capacity is 10,770 lbs.
The Tungsten
The Tungsten sets the standard for luxury in this lineup. At a base price of $87,075, it offers premium features like massaging seats, a 14.5-inch Uconnect touchscreen, a 10.25-inch passenger screen, and a 23-speaker Klipsch Reference audio system. The one-piece front fascia sleekens its aesthetic even more. Advanced safety features are there as well, so you've got peace of mind when delivering for the long haul. MotorTrend's tested towing capacity: 6,870 lbs. When equipped with the Hurricane HO engine, max towing capacity is 10,770 lbs.
Why To Buy The Ram 1500?
Every trim in the Ram 1500 lineup is packed with top-notch features, as Ram considers this the most advanced and strongest they've ever produced. Some highlights worth noting include:
- 100+ safety and security features, including a semi-autonomous driving system.
- Trailering and towing features that simplify loading up and backing out.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, standard for wireless connectivity.
- Most advanced power audio and air suspension systems.
- More horsepower than any Chevy Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra, or Nissan Titan!
Safety also is a priority for Ram. Systems like Blind-Spot Monitoring, Lane-Keep Assist, and Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning-Plus are taking the Ram into modern day while keeping you safer on the road. Put it all together, and you end up with a pickup that demands a 'yes.'
Purchase A Ram 1500 in Ocala, Florida
Ready to get behind the wheel of MotorTrend's Truck of the Year? Throughout Gainesville, Leesburg, or The Villages, we're ready for a test drive when you are! Stop in today to our family-owned and operated dealership. We've been serving the heart of Ocala for 27 years and look forward to serving you at Phillips Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Ocala, Florida.
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RAM Trucks