New RAM 3500 can tow heaviest caravans

RAM Trucks has completed the pick-up trifecta in Australia with the release of a third DT-generation variant, the hugely-capable 2021 RAM 3500.

Following in the considerable wheel tracks of the smaller DT-series RAM 1500 and 2500 models, the new RAM 3500 is priced at $162,950 plus on-road costs – imposing a premium of $23,000 and $6000 respectively over its stablemates.

RAM also continues to offer the previous-generation DS version of the 1500, which starts at $79,990 plus ORCs.

The RAM 3500 closely resembles the 2500 with its interior, engine, four-wheel drive system and specification.

It scores a major visual update both inside and out, and costs $18,600 more than its ageing DS predecessor.

A 6.7-litre Cummins-sourced inline six-cylinder turbo-diesel produces identical 276kW/1152Nm outputs to the 2500, while a maximum towing capacity of 8.0 tonnes is carried over (with use of a gooseneck attachment and air brakes). This reduces to 3.5 tonnes with a regular 50mm tow ball.

The 3500’s major point of difference comes via a two-stage longitudinal leaf-sprung solid rear axle. The configuration enables a payload of 1724kg versus 825kg on the 2500.

Standard equipment mirrors specification on the 2500. It includes 18-inch wheels, six seats adorned in partial leather trim, power-adjustable, heated and cooled front seats, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, keyless entry/start and dual-zone climate control.

A 360-degree camera with trailer reverse guidance and a secondary cargo-view camera are also standard fitment.

Infotainment is controlled via 12-inch touch-screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 10-speaker Alpine stereo and 7.0-inch colour digital instrument cluster.

Five USB-A and four USB-C ports plus a rear power-sliding window are some of the other niceties.

The RAM 2500 doesn’t come with an ANCAP safety rating but has been crash-tested in the US under different testing protocols.

Standard safety includes full airbag coverage, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with active braking, hill start assist, trailer sway control and lane departure warning.

Front and rear parking sensors, a ‘digital’ rear-view mirror, 360-degree camera plus forward- and rear-facing cameras are likewise standard.

As with the 2500, an optional $1950 ‘Driver Assistance Level 1 Package’ adds blind spot monitoring with rear cross path and trailer detection, while premium metallic/pearlescent paint is the other major option at $950.

The RAM 3500 is imported by factory-approved RAM Trucks Australia and converted from left- to right-hand drive in Melbourne with full homologation compliance by Walkinshaw Automotive Group.

The RAM 3500 is backed by a three-year/100,000km warranty through RAM Trucks Australia, while servicing intervals are spaced every six months or 12,000km, more frequent than most other utilities.

Related: RAM 2500 Tow Test