2021 Ram 3500

A comfortable ride and luxurious touches aren't attributes that many associate with heavy-duty trucks, but the 2021 Ram 3500 is no ordinary truck. Ram treats motorists to the finer things while delivering all the practicality demanded from vehicles in this class. Take a closer look at the reasons why the latest Ram 3500 stands above the competition.

The 3500 has always been a powerhouse, but Ram has made this pickup mightier than ever before. All three engine options have plenty of grunt. The base option is a 6.4-liter V-8 motor. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission system, it makes 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque. It can also tow up to 14,970 pounds, depending on your configuration. If you prefer diesel power, Ram has you covered, offering two different 6.7-liter Cummins diesel inline-six engines with six-speed automatic-transmission systems and either rear- or four-wheel drive. The first diesel motor makes 370 horsepower and 850 pound-feet of torque. The high-output option increases the numbers, making 400 horsepower and a whopping 1075 pound-feet of torque. That powerful engine helps the Ram 3500 pull up to 37,100 pounds, depending on your configuration.

The way the 3500 performs depends largely on your selections. The diesel engine is 490 pounds heavier than the V-8, so this option isn't as zippy around town. The diesel version is a little quieter than previous incarnations, but it's still louder than the V-8. If you need extra power for towing and off-roading, you'll gladly sacrifice some everyday driving comfort. However, if you want a vehicle that suits city driving, the 3500 with the V-8 engine is your best bet.

The 3500 looks like a workhorse on the outside, but it's got the interior of a luxury vehicle. The minimalist modern design, luxurious detailing, and the latest technology, including a massive 12-inch touch-screen infotainment system, almost makes you forget you're driving a practical pickup. Opulent materials make higher trims feel even more special. For example, the Longhorn has wood panels and gold accents. Your experience will vary depending on the cab size you choose. The single cab is as compact as you might expect, but both the Crew Cab and Mega Cab feel generous. The Mega Cab's rear seat is actually the largest in its class. A spacious multilevel center console and range of interior cubbies complement the generous space in the back seat.

The 2021 Ram 3500 features front airbags, ABS, stability control, and an anti-roll system to keep drivers and their passengers safe. For extra peace of mind, driver-assistance features such as blind-spot monitoring, automated emergency brakes, adaptive cruise control, and the new digital rearview mirror are all optional.