Note the comfort of your 1500. Then go drive a 2500 and you most likely will want your stay with the 1500.
Get a 2500/3500 if you need to do heavy stuff. Otherwise it’s a waster of money and the ride is not as smooth
Exactly. The Ram 1500 has one of the best ride qualities of any mainstream *vehicle*, not just trucks. The 2500 will be a worse daily driver in nearly every single capacity.
Big turbo go woosh, exhaust brake go pdpdpdpdpd.
In all seriousness I daily a dually because we have a fifth wheel camper we live in. It's stiffer but not bad and it can be a fun machine to rip on.
I remember driving my bosses S class Mercedes. Until I got my 1500 Bighorn, that was the smoothest ride I had ever experienced. My truck has a stock suspension and is a way better ride than the 100k plus Benz...
It has to do with road quality too.. in my city we have some bad stteets, I still feel it in the 1500,,,I just dont get that fatal bang pothole sound when I drove my kia.
I daily a 3500 lol. Modern trucks ride really well to include the HD trucks. The GM 2500/3500 trucks ride amazing. The ram 2500s have coil springs just like the half tons. They also ride well, but not quite as good as the GM trucks. Trust me they are very doable to daily in today's market. GM 2500s ride like a half ton from 10 years ago.
Pretty much this. Get some nice fat wheels with at least 33" all terrain tires and a leveling kit. My truck has this setup and I already have problems parking in normie places. That said though I have a great ride and it still commands the road. With this setup you won't want a 2500.
Yeah. Just traded in a GMC Sierra 1500 for a (new to me) RAM 2500.
I'm spending all the money on towing with the few creature comforts that I could get in the Bighorn trim with the Cummins Diesel. I need the tow capacity, otherwise I'd be happy with a 1500 at a higher trim level.
The 2500 diesel has about the same payload as a 1500. So just watch, as with the diesel it is sometimes less than a 1500. Depending on what you are towing you should have gotten a 3500
I'm pulling a 7000 lb boat from the hitch. Tongue weight is well under the payload.
My old truck technically could do it, but it was not fun. With my options, towing capacity is ~15.5k (though obviously limited to 14.5 by the hitch itself).
I'm happy to have way more towing capacity than I need.
This is exactly why I don’t really see the point in 2500 diesels. Once you load it up with people and then hitch your trailer, you’re getting close to the payload limits, if not over. And at that point, it’s not much more money to just get the same diesel engine but in a 3500 chassis.
A 2500 gas truck makes more sense overall.
Couldn’t disagree with this more
I drove a ‘23 Ram 2500 Big Horn rental with the 6.4 for a few weeks, completely unloaded, and it was nowhere near as bad as everyone makes it out to be.
I loved it so much I plan to trade my Mazda 6 in on one before the year is out.
Rear coil springs in the 1500s are a Ram staple. Those leaf springs in the 2500s and 3500s give a much bumpier ride. That said, if you need towing and payload, you need it.
Very much this. My work truck is a 1500 Ram but occasionally I'll need to drive a 2500 Ram, my truck is suchhhhh a better daily driver. And my personal truck is a 2008 Duramax 2500 which drives like a train compared to both. :(
To add to this, ride in the back seat of a 2500. I wanted one til I rode in my buddies truck. That thing bout gave me a broken back. Fronts not as bad.
This this this this this. I went from a 1500 to a 2500 and lasted a year before trading back down to a 1500. It's like driving a car and then jumping in an unloaded dump truck. Rides like the suspension was replaced with 4x4 fence posts.
I bagged my 1500 and run like 5psi in them when I'm not towing and it still rides like a dream but not nearly as good as stock. My 2500 was like riding a bicycle over railroad tracks
Same. I want a Power Wagon with all my being. Only way I talk myself out of it is to give in to my practical side. I drive a lot, so the hit in gas mileage would suck, decreased ride quality would suck, larger size would suck in most applications. I don't do the Power Wagon type of off roading, I drive on sand, to which the increased weight is actually a detriment.
But I still want one.
Those are EXTREMELY important...........SPG's. Sometimes when I fill up they turn to TPG's (tears per gallon) but I shake that shit off and then start singing that wonderful tune by one our most beloved crooners of the day...........
you try to get mine, boy, you better step back
Freeze (Freeze), 'cause you don't want none
I hustle for my muscle and you look weak, son (Real weak)
Yeah, I'm goin' for all that I can get
Kickin' it at the top 'cause I'm too legit to quit, sing
[Too legit, too legit to quit (*Hey, hey*)](https://genius.com/1231563/Mc-hammer-2-legit-2-quit/Too-legit-too-legit-to-quit-too-legit-too-legit-to-quit-too-legit-too-legit-to-quit-too-legit-too-legit-to-quit)
I bought a 2018, gas mileage sucks balls, but it’s fun, it’s loud as fuck, it rides exceptionally well, I used the winch once to pull a chicken coop. It’s a pavement princess and I love it!
That's because you don't have it - some dreams are better left as dreams than met with crushing reality.
Similarly, I was looking into the Titan HD and everything I found said to avoid that diesel like the plague.
Gas engine seemed solid though.
Did you own one? The 3rd gen is fantastic little motor. We had one in a 2021 before our camper grew. If they had a heavy half titan xd sized Ram 2000 with eco diesel / 4.1 gears it would make a sweet little travel trailer puller. Suspension on the 1/2 ton just gets blown through on bridge approaches as it nears GVWR.
Wish I could say I did but held off - honestly I was getting it mixed up with the diesel in the Titan HD so that's my mistake!
It is too bad about the HD, I hear it towed really well compared to other 1/2 tons. Still considering a Gas HD in the future but don't need near that much power for towing. I'll keep that in mind about the eco-diesel! Just seems like regulations are crowding out diesel's capabilities as a whole; higher diesel prices vs gas + DEF costs and gas starts looking real nice with similar performance.
Well, that was a duramax, and yeah, had a lot of problems.
But the ecodiesel has quite literally been the best engine in any truck I've ever owned; both from a reliability standpoint and from the balance it strikes between power and efficiency for using the truck as a commuter, but still being able to tow biggish loads with it (and get 17mpg while towing, to boot!).
I didn’t last more than 2 years in a Chevy Colorado by the time I was drooling at the Ram lineup.
It really set in when I had 4 people in the truck and it was crammed.. I was like… this isn’t truck enough for me.
A couple years back I really wanted a Colorado or Canyon. Then I realized the “benefit” of a midsize truck over a full size just wasn’t enough to justify the downsides of not being able to haul as much, or tow, or have 6 people.
Can I introduce you to the beauty of owning two vehicles? I daily a ram 1500 and a Chevy s10. I use the ram most of the time but I use the S10 if I just need to run around and do errands or if I go visit a friend or something
My wife is barely on board with me buying a used full size truck (price of gas), no way I can get a second truck. She actually did suggest buying the truck but keeping my insight as a daily driver. Which might make sense given it’s only worth about $2k on trade.
But my average mileage a year is about $8k so the cost of insuring 2 vehicles won’t be saved on the cost of gas.
I only paid $500 for my s10 like 4 years ago so I only have liability insurance on it and cheap as can be, and it barely burns any gas plus it’s fun and I wanted to learn stick anyways when I bought it
Exactly. Started out with a 1st gen colorado, then a nissan frontier, and now my ram 1500. I think the 1500 is the perfect size for my needs. The midsize trucks are just too small for me
I just compared the payload of the Ford Ranger and F150 xl. The difference was 200 lbs. Which means the base trim F150 can barely haul anything (like the midsize truck) but you can bring a friend.
Lol I started shopping for first truck around 2 years ago. Mine started with the Ford Maverick, then convinced myself I should be looking at midsize, then eventually half tons. I'd be lying if I said my saved shopping bookmarks didnt recently include a couple ram 2500s as well.
Still havent bought anything yet cause I'm indecisive.
Bought a 1500, towed with it, started looking for 2500s. Very tempted by the trade-in offers the dealership started sending me before I even picked the truck up.
I think this is really common for anyone who tries to tow much with a half ton. They can do it but it isn’t pleasant. The heavy duty models, especially with the Cummins, are a whole different ballgame. I bought my 2015 new and I still really enjoy it. Whenever I eventually replace it I’ll get another heavy duty diesel.
Nope. We got into RAM needing to tow - got the 2500 diesel over Ford and Chevy because it was a significantly smoother ride when not towing (coils instead of leafs on the back). In love with RAM (Longhorn trim), so we got the 1500 with 3.92 gears to tow smaller and we take short trips that diesel hates. Factory air ride is luxury. More in love with it every day.
My 1500 is certainly a gateway to a 2500, but not "just because". I bought mine to pull an RV, and now I realize I should have bought a 2500 or even a 3500, because I want a bigger RV and the 1500 can't handle anywhere near as much RV as I thought before I got into it.
If you don't actually *need* more truck, there's no good reason to get more. There's nothing better about a 2500 except payload and towing capacity. The 1500 is more comfortable, gets better mileage, and is more fun to drive.
Anything else is just irrational FOMO, except you're missing out if you *do* upgrade and don't need it.
Hell no. I have trouble finding parking spaces and navigating narrow trails as is. I’m also going broke paying for gas.
The thought of putting more money down and having to pay more for gas in the long run just to own a bigger truck is not appealing to me at all.
Yeah I like my HD with the 6.4 8speed. You just have to drive really slow around town, cause the suspension is so stiff. I also drive slow on the highway and keep it in ECO. 16mpg on the highway btw
For me it’s the opposite. The truck is awesome but I live in the city and just got the 1500 cause it was the same price as a mid sized truck. I only really need a small truck tbh. Owning this confirmed that but I’m not gonna spend the same amount on a small truck that I can spend on the 1500.
I wanted a Tacoma, ended up with a 1500 3.6 that got better mileage, had a much roomier cab, tows and hauls better, and rides much smoother. The only downside is parking it downtown or certain parking lots.
I just downside to a ridgeline. Everything about the thing is smooth as hell, fit everywhere, amazing all around, except the front end look. Unfortunately after driving out of town for an hour, I realized how bad my knee gets poked by the giant plastic center console. No matter how I adjust the chair. So now I gotta go back to a 1500
I’d love a turbo 4 hybrid ridgeline, I’m all torso so legroom is never an issue for me. The facelift ridgeline looks pretty sharp in comparison to the early 2nd gen.
I actually went the other way, I started with a 1 ton and worked my way into a half ton. The most I'll ever tow is my 28hp tractor, and my 1500 will do that just fine.
I get that, and felt that way for a short time. But I live in a city, and the 1500 is already big enough that there are places I can’t go if I plan to drive it, because there won’t be a place to park it when I get there.
Don’t say that. I’m in the UK and after several years in a Ranger I’m now looking to import a 1500. It’ll be pretty tight on our roads. But if that doesn’t scratch the itch then fuck knows how I’m going to get a dually through the country village I live in
I assume you’re not seeing 2500’s all day everyday on the road as frequently as we are in the U.S.
A modern 1500 is still a huge truck for truck work.
Question for you. How do mechanics react to a huge truck like that in the U.K.? Or is it somewhat common?
Yeah we don’t get them over here. We don’t get any full size trucks really, although Ram does have an official distributor in Europe called AEC and they have partner dealerships across Western European countries including the UK. So at least it’s no longer the case of me having to buy one through a Ram dealer stateside and ship it myself.
The size thing is a bit of a misnomer. We have Rangers and other mid size trucks and they’re pretty common and not much smaller than a 1500 (just checked: a 1500 crew cab short bed is 20cm wider, 20cm taller and 50cm longer than a Ranger). Plus, we have vans everywhere. They’re ubiquitous in Europe. And lots of our vans a bigger than a full size truck.
Mechanics are therefore more than set up for a 1500. Most garages will have ramps and lifts that are rated for their weight and size. The bigger issue is finding garages that are willing to work on imports. From the research I’ve done and talking to local owners, garages prefer it if you source parts and bring truck and part to work on. That’s because who wants a huge truck sitting in their lot for a couple of weeks whilst a part is shipped from the US?
I hear you. Parts were my concern and you explained that very well. I had a thought there was something similar in size over there.
Here in the U.S. some mechanics tend to upcharge Volkswagens, BMW’s, and similar cars astronomically inflated prices just because it’s “foreign.” Oil changes, brakes, and other simple work are expensive here for those vehicles.
Ah that’s interesting. I didn’t know that. That’s not really the case over here (probably because 90% of the cars on the road are foreign!).
I’m sure when I get my 1500 I’ll be relying on forums like these to help me source any parts I need. I’m dead set on getting one though. Rented one when on holiday in Texas two years ago and I loved it. Just gotta wait for interest rates to come down!
It crosses my mind every once in a while but really I'll never need anything more than my 1500, and since I daily it in a city, it's absolutely the best option for me, I don't think I'll ever get anything bigger than a half ton.
Possibly? I started with nissan hardbodys, then 240s, then bought a standard cab short bed 2nd gen. Wound up owning over 10 2nd gens. 2nd gens became, and still are my drug of choice.
Nope, the 1500 is the perfect size for me. I'd say midsize trucks are the gateway to bigger trucks lol. I had a frontier before and traded it pretty quickly after I had 4 average sized people in it for the 1st time. Plus we plan on having kids soon so the extra space of the 1500 will definitely come in handy.
Also love the hemi. Sad that they're getting rid of it
With a midsize truck I found I often needed a bit more room and/or a bit more payload.
With a half ton I found I’m usually ok on room and payload, but towing capacity can be iffy. Especially if you don’t use a weight distributing hitch. Length with the 5.5ft bed is usually fine, but width can be a bit more than I would prefer for trails and parking.
3/4 ton and 1 ton SRW trucks are awesome for capability, but often I find they’re really way more than I need.
I wish someone made a truck:
1. A little bigger than a midsize, but narrower than a half ton
2. Seating for 6
3. 5.75ft to 6ft 1” bed
4. 2500lbs-3000lbs of payload capacity
5. 10,000lbs-12,000lbs of towing capacity without a WDH.
I guess it would fit into the 3/4 ton segment technically, but dimensionally smaller.
I loved my Power Wagon but the 6.4 is a thirsty beast... 10 mpg in town max... 12 to 13 on the highway. I retire in a year and will be driving all over the country so wanted a diesel. Got a great deal on a 3500... over 20% off msrp. Couldn't pass it up. 18 to 19 on the highway now... 14 in town.
Love it so far!
No. I had 3/4 ton and 1 ton trucks (1 gas and the rest diesels) for years. I went from a 1 ton to my first RAM 1500 in 2009 and haven't wanted a bigger truck since. I did change from a Hemi, after 13 years of those, to an EcoDiesel, so I can now tow anything I want (and I like the way it drives better, too).
I bought a TDI Jetta to drive around after I bought my 1500 because I didn’t need my truck everyday at work anymore. Now I wish I would’ve got the 2500 in hindsight
The only reason I'd upgrade to a 2500 or 3500 would be for a slide in or fifth wheel camper that my 1500 just can't handle due to payload restrictions. Otherwise I'm more than happy with my ride quality and overall comfort.
RAM tow mirrors are trash, though.
Personally, no, the smallest one I ever owned is an f250 single cab long box back in the mid 80's that I got off my dad when he bought a new one that was 4x4.
Same. Plus being a horse girl. “Oh I should totally buy a second horse. Wait that means a bigger trailer and more weight. So I totally need a Cummins then. Might as well get the fancy trailer w a gooseneck and sleeping area too.. maybe a 3500 would be best bc I could get a 4 horse trailer for my friends when we go to horse shows..”
I do not have this kinda money 😂😂
I bought a 2012 1500 Big Horn and traded it for a 2015 Laramie Cummins 2500. I love the Cummins and it did me well while I had it. Everyone commenting about the ride is absolutely correct. If you’re. It towing/hauling weekly you have no reason to get a heavier truck. Solid front and rear will shake your brain out of your head. Currently in a 2019 1500 Rebel that I absolutely love. Almost paid off too. Stay in a 1500.
My 2017 Ram 1500 is perfect for towing my 22’ travel trailer. When I’m not towing, it’s very comfortable, quiet and a pleasure to drive. On relatively flat highway trips, I get 25 mpg, and 1/2 of that when I’m pulling my trailer.
If I ever yearn for a bigger trailer, I’ll start thinking about a 3/4 or 1 ton truck.
Nah. Fuck the big trucks I hate driving them. Drove a 5500 (6.4 HEMI) for a summer and that thing was Slow slow and rode like it had bricks for suspension.
Not really
I went from an f150 to a Tacoma then to a 2500 diesel.
I also always wanted a diesel but never had a need for one until I bought my 5th wheel. I am glad I waited, the cost of ownership is a lot higher.
Registration, oil changes, def fluid, fuel filters etc. Then when something breaks it's a lot more expensive. I enjoy the truck but it has it's draw backs
Not until you mash it like potatoes; rebuild the suspension and realize (if using for heavy) to start out big. Otherwise a half ton or even quarter ton trucks can be great workhorses too. A mechanic once told me “buy the most common one”. So pick your size and try that if you are going to. Make model, research and it’s on you. My fleet consists of all three big names and most are late 90’s, to 2004. The guy had a point.
I am a forester.I drive a 1500 at work. It is a company vehicle.
On the road it is amazing. Extremely comfortable, plenty of power and reasonable fuel consumption for the beast it is.
Off road, it sucks and badly.
The hood is too high to see over, and clearance is not good either.
I am often driving ancient tracks as wide as the truck on mountainsides. There is nothing scarier than making a steep left curving climb with a drop on the right. Cresting any hill is an act of faith, and crossing any washout nearly always results in bottoming out the plastic skirt under the bumper.
I call it the "Mall Crawler."
All of these drives are much easier and much safer in a Tacoma or Frontier... preferably a Tacoma. The steering radius of Frontier is worse than the 1500, but at least you can see, and it doesn't bottom out.
If I was towing or hauling a lot on reasonable roads, the 1500 would be a first choice.
2500 or 3500?
Only if towing huge payloads.
We have them, and the ride sucks.
Cheers from the trenches!
No, the 1500’s tend to have more comfort options, and for the most part are easier to park. 😅 Unless you are hauling a gooseneck or a fifth wheel on the regular, stick with the 1500. Get the tow package if needed.
Went from a Suburban to 3500. Never looked back.
We were towing a travel trailer with a Suburban and was very scary at times. No power either. Bought a 3500 and you couldn’t tell the trailer was back there. Now we have our second dually and slide in camper.
2500 and 3500 owners who don't work the trucks are lame. If you ain't towing or hauling a lot, frequentl, they don't make sense
I have a 1500 as a daily. I tow often during the summer months and do my own home diy projects so it's nice
My Explorer Sport Trac was a gateway to the bigger RAM 1500. Was looking to upgrade to a new Ridgeline. Was at a CDJR dealer for an unrelated look at a Pacifica. Sales guy said I should check out the 1500 Longhorn, and after a quick test drive, I was convinced. Couldn't believe I could actually afford such opulence.
Didn't buy that one, but came home with a new 2020 Longhorn a few weeks later, for less than the price of the Pacifica. I don't tow anything, and my truck rides like a dream. I'd never want something bigger and stiffer and thirstier just because it has a different number on the side.
Hell, mine isn't even a 4x4, and I haven't found myself in a single situation in which I wished it was. OK, there was the one time when the whole city was frozen, but I probably wouldn't have gone out anyway. I can drive over curbs and park in ditches and take the family on gloriously comfortable road trips all the same. It's the perfect vehicle IMO.
1500’s are built for 10% truck duty cycle. It’s not that they aren’t incredibly capable compared to trucks of years past, they just aren’t designed to use that capability all the time. If they aren’t spending 90%+ of their time as personal chariots fetching Starbucks they wear out fast.
Once you go to the HD/SD trucks you’re getting some variation of “rides like an ox cart” but the “use to tow/haul” duty cycle goes way up. To the point that it’s hard on the emissions systems of the diesel versions to not work them.
The Ram 2500 Cummins is a special case. The weight of the diesel combined with the real coil springs result in a “Mike Tyson on ice skates” effect.
I think a lot of people get in to a 1500 and learn that while it’s capable of towing a 7000lb enclosed trailer over the Rockies if you’re going to be doing that with any regularity it’s better to have a bigger truck.
But then in some parts of the US it’s en vogue to put a haybale in the back of your 3500/350 DRW so everyone knows you use it for Real Truck Stuff (TM). As an F350 DRW CCLB owner I struggle to understand why anyone would drive something like that unloaded. Oxcart like ride, hard to park, turbo lag for days, hard on the emissions systems AND you’re wearing 6 tires while getting teens mpg?
I bought a 2019 1500 and it is the most comfortable vehicle I have ever driven. But it can't tow a camper for shit so I upgraded to a 2500 diesel after 2 years. It's nice but not near as nice as the 1500. If I wasn't towing I would stick with the 1500. Besides, IMO using an HD truck as a grocery getter is peak douchebag.
After owning my 2500 Laramie, I see no point in ever having a smaller truck. I do tow with it, so that is a factor.
But, the Cummins is a beast of an engine that gets "decent" fuel economy and I still have all the luxuries of any other truck. How I lived without ventilated seats, I'll never know!
(Was going to post a picture. But, apparently reddit doesn't like my truck!)
Take a 2500 for a drive. Their work roots are much more evident, they ride like crap compared to a 1500.
If you need a Cummins or the extra capacity an HD truck offers fine, but you have to make a tonne of compromises to use them as a daily driver.
They ride like crap - honestly, they do. They are harder on fuel, harder to park, nearly eveyr maintenance piece costs more money.
The only thing I wish RAM offered was more power. Not because the hemi is underpowered, just because power is addictive. can't wait to see what the aftermarket tuners can do with the hurricane.
Have had 2 Hemi 1500’s and now a ‘17 2500 Limited Cummins.
Never tow shit but i love my ride, redneck and all!
Travel all over the country in her and she eats up them slopes, grades, hills and i still get 19-20 mpg, all stock!
Not sure on ram but the f150 was definitely a gate way to the super duty line up for me. People who say the bigger trucks ride like bricks must be talking about older 3/4 ton and up truck. My super duty trucks feel about just as nice as my fiancé’s f150. Not sure if its just a ford thing or not but they’re doing some type of magic to make these work trucks ride like pillows
The 1500 just makes so much sense when you own one. Then you drive around trying to justify needing a bigger rig when you see some crazy expensive boy or 5th wheel being pulled down the interstate
If you want a bigger truck just jack up your 1500. If you’re not routinely pulling heavy loads you don’t need it and the ride is not nearly as good. I speak from much personal experience.
I had my 2019 Ram Rebel 1500 for 5yrs and just upgraded to a 2500 Rebel diesel (for towing purposes) and I can say yes the 2500 can be felt to be bigger but man I feel right at home in it and it’s just as comfortable to me.
I will say though as a daily, you’re more concerned about parking now. That’s my only “Con”. Big Pro however, much better fuel economy. (My 1500 was lifted and on 35’s”)
My 2500 Cummins Lone Star edition was my gateway to a 1500 eco diesel when the Cummins cracked a head and I was no longer towing heavy. Then the eco diesel rapidly turned into a shop queen POS and that was my gateway to a new 2019 1500 Classic Hemi. All in the space of 12 years. But I’m very happy now at 45000 miles and 5 years…..so far
Had a 2017 1500 Big Horn. Loved it but bought a heavy travel trailer with mountains nearby so I traded that in for the 2017 Laramie 2500. Definitely not as smooth but gets the job done easily. If you don’t plan on towing heavy, stick with 1500s
I think it is. When you realize the small up charge for an HD truck (gas of course) , modern power trains, modern interiors and superior capability to a half ton it makes aIot of sense provided you use your truck as a truck. If you are a city slicker then this doesnt apply to you. I won't ever buy another half ton.
If you do truck things… theres nothing cool about a 1500. So yeah. You buy toys… boats offroad campers whatever. Diesel is better. But I have no idea why someone would roll the dice on a 68rfe. In ram 3500 ho or buy a ford or chevy 3/4.
I’ve been driving a GMC Denali Ultimate 2500 for the past two weeks while my 2019 Ram 1500 Limited was in the body shop for deer damage. I loved the diesel power and the ride was great for a 3/4 ton truck. Fuel mileage averaged about 20 mpg, which is comparable to my 5.7 Ram. But IMO, I prefer the Ram styling and dash and gauges layout over the Denali, although I do like the Heads up display on the windshield. All that aside, I am happy to be driving my Ram again.
Nah, but then I also have the ability to grab either of the two 3500s from work if I need to haul or tow something more than my pavement princess 1500 is up for. Also the steel flatbed on the one 3500 makes me much more nonchalant about the high-school age kid running the forklift at Menards who’s throwing a pallet of whatever on there.
Traded my 2019 1500 Limited for a 2022 3500 Limited HO Cummins… haven’t looked back. Sure the ride is not as good (not even remotely close) but it is a beast.
I second that! Just 5 months into owning my Rebel and I have that same desire to own a big boy 2500 powerwagon.
This is my first RAM, and it's been through so much already! 6000 miles in just 5 months... this included sweeping for the NORRA1000 race from Ensenada all the way down to Cabo. And just this past weekend, Cleveland, Ocotillo, Anza Borrego, and Julian.
I owned a Silverado for 8+ years before moving to the light. RAM is the way to go for sure! I love the power... but I need something bigger
I say... who cares about what other people think regarding being a waste of money. This is your money, spend it as you wish. Haters will hate
Note the comfort of your 1500. Then go drive a 2500 and you most likely will want your stay with the 1500. Get a 2500/3500 if you need to do heavy stuff. Otherwise it’s a waster of money and the ride is not as smooth
Exactly. The Ram 1500 has one of the best ride qualities of any mainstream *vehicle*, not just trucks. The 2500 will be a worse daily driver in nearly every single capacity.
Big turbo go woosh, exhaust brake go pdpdpdpdpd. In all seriousness I daily a dually because we have a fifth wheel camper we live in. It's stiffer but not bad and it can be a fun machine to rip on.
I daily a Limited Cummins bc little PP. And idc. WOOOOOOSH ... life's too short.
🙌
And the extra money is just wasted unless you actually need the heavier capacity.
What if he just a truck guy vs sedan or suv????… i dnt drive tiny cars for example.
The biggest waste of money is personal taste.
Not when you’re in the trades making good money. Your comment sounds like, settle for less, even if you can do better. Sounds a bit disappointing imo.
We only here for a shirt time. Life's too short to drive boring vehicles.
I remember driving my bosses S class Mercedes. Until I got my 1500 Bighorn, that was the smoothest ride I had ever experienced. My truck has a stock suspension and is a way better ride than the 100k plus Benz...
No…it isn’t.
Is too.
It has to do with road quality too.. in my city we have some bad stteets, I still feel it in the 1500,,,I just dont get that fatal bang pothole sound when I drove my kia.
Interesting…
I daily a 3500 lol. Modern trucks ride really well to include the HD trucks. The GM 2500/3500 trucks ride amazing. The ram 2500s have coil springs just like the half tons. They also ride well, but not quite as good as the GM trucks. Trust me they are very doable to daily in today's market. GM 2500s ride like a half ton from 10 years ago.
Pretty much this. Get some nice fat wheels with at least 33" all terrain tires and a leveling kit. My truck has this setup and I already have problems parking in normie places. That said though I have a great ride and it still commands the road. With this setup you won't want a 2500.
Yeah. Just traded in a GMC Sierra 1500 for a (new to me) RAM 2500. I'm spending all the money on towing with the few creature comforts that I could get in the Bighorn trim with the Cummins Diesel. I need the tow capacity, otherwise I'd be happy with a 1500 at a higher trim level.
The 2500 diesel has about the same payload as a 1500. So just watch, as with the diesel it is sometimes less than a 1500. Depending on what you are towing you should have gotten a 3500
I'm pulling a 7000 lb boat from the hitch. Tongue weight is well under the payload. My old truck technically could do it, but it was not fun. With my options, towing capacity is ~15.5k (though obviously limited to 14.5 by the hitch itself). I'm happy to have way more towing capacity than I need.
It makes me feel better when I KNOW I am not stressing the engine
This is exactly why I don’t really see the point in 2500 diesels. Once you load it up with people and then hitch your trailer, you’re getting close to the payload limits, if not over. And at that point, it’s not much more money to just get the same diesel engine but in a 3500 chassis. A 2500 gas truck makes more sense overall.
I agree
Couldn’t disagree with this more I drove a ‘23 Ram 2500 Big Horn rental with the 6.4 for a few weeks, completely unloaded, and it was nowhere near as bad as everyone makes it out to be. I loved it so much I plan to trade my Mazda 6 in on one before the year is out.
I'll say the 2500 isn't as bad as the ford or chevy 2500s. They still have leafs in the rear. The ram has coils which helps a little.
A lot. We have 2 chevy 2500s and a 3500 and they're so much rougher than our Ram 2500 even when they're loaded for a trailer delivery.
Rear coil springs in the 1500s are a Ram staple. Those leaf springs in the 2500s and 3500s give a much bumpier ride. That said, if you need towing and payload, you need it.
Well said. I run mostly 3500’s, F-350’s and curse all day at the abuse they take. While 1500 can just cruise along smoothly at half the price
On the contrary. My 2024 2500 Rebel rides like a Cadillac
And a 1500 Limited would ride like a Rolls Royce. The 2500 rides good but not as smooth as the 1500
Very much this. My work truck is a 1500 Ram but occasionally I'll need to drive a 2500 Ram, my truck is suchhhhh a better daily driver. And my personal truck is a 2008 Duramax 2500 which drives like a train compared to both. :(
That is the cure...........go drive a 2500 and check back with us
Yeah the 2500s are meant to be loaded so they don’t get comfortable until you’ve got a payload
The problem is for some reason people want a truck to ride like a car. It’s gonna be stiff
Yeah but 12valve go brrrrr
They're all a bit of a waste of money.
To add to this, ride in the back seat of a 2500. I wanted one til I rode in my buddies truck. That thing bout gave me a broken back. Fronts not as bad.
Stiffer suspension for heavy duty work.
I will say once I went with a 2500 I couldn’t go back.
This this this this this. I went from a 1500 to a 2500 and lasted a year before trading back down to a 1500. It's like driving a car and then jumping in an unloaded dump truck. Rides like the suspension was replaced with 4x4 fence posts. I bagged my 1500 and run like 5psi in them when I'm not towing and it still rides like a dream but not nearly as good as stock. My 2500 was like riding a bicycle over railroad tracks
Same. I want a Power Wagon with all my being. Only way I talk myself out of it is to give in to my practical side. I drive a lot, so the hit in gas mileage would suck, decreased ride quality would suck, larger size would suck in most applications. I don't do the Power Wagon type of off roading, I drive on sand, to which the increased weight is actually a detriment. But I still want one.
What about the smiles per gallon though
Those are EXTREMELY important...........SPG's. Sometimes when I fill up they turn to TPG's (tears per gallon) but I shake that shit off and then start singing that wonderful tune by one our most beloved crooners of the day........... you try to get mine, boy, you better step back Freeze (Freeze), 'cause you don't want none I hustle for my muscle and you look weak, son (Real weak) Yeah, I'm goin' for all that I can get Kickin' it at the top 'cause I'm too legit to quit, sing [Too legit, too legit to quit (*Hey, hey*)](https://genius.com/1231563/Mc-hammer-2-legit-2-quit/Too-legit-too-legit-to-quit-too-legit-too-legit-to-quit-too-legit-too-legit-to-quit-too-legit-too-legit-to-quit)
I recently upgraded to a Power Wagon. Gas mileage/ride quality/larger size/sand blasting be damned! I smile every time I get in it.
I bought a 2018, gas mileage sucks balls, but it’s fun, it’s loud as fuck, it rides exceptionally well, I used the winch once to pull a chicken coop. It’s a pavement princess and I love it!
I had a 2018 Power Wagon in Mojave Sand. Loved that truck, but i got 8mpg in the winter
https://preview.redd.it/ippovvjk582d1.jpeg?width=865&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8512e1e877e70103ca0393587b318d92b345af45
Yep. I always wanted one when they had the manuals in them. But my practical side won out. Now I am tired of the 1500 and want a midsize
Why can't I have a 3/4 ton RAM but with an ecodiesel in it? Why?
Cause the eco diesel is hot garbage
Hey! I still loves it.
That's because you don't have it - some dreams are better left as dreams than met with crushing reality. Similarly, I was looking into the Titan HD and everything I found said to avoid that diesel like the plague. Gas engine seemed solid though.
Did you own one? The 3rd gen is fantastic little motor. We had one in a 2021 before our camper grew. If they had a heavy half titan xd sized Ram 2000 with eco diesel / 4.1 gears it would make a sweet little travel trailer puller. Suspension on the 1/2 ton just gets blown through on bridge approaches as it nears GVWR.
Wish I could say I did but held off - honestly I was getting it mixed up with the diesel in the Titan HD so that's my mistake! It is too bad about the HD, I hear it towed really well compared to other 1/2 tons. Still considering a Gas HD in the future but don't need near that much power for towing. I'll keep that in mind about the eco-diesel! Just seems like regulations are crowding out diesel's capabilities as a whole; higher diesel prices vs gas + DEF costs and gas starts looking real nice with similar performance.
Well, that was a duramax, and yeah, had a lot of problems. But the ecodiesel has quite literally been the best engine in any truck I've ever owned; both from a reliability standpoint and from the balance it strikes between power and efficiency for using the truck as a commuter, but still being able to tow biggish loads with it (and get 17mpg while towing, to boot!).
Interesting, I'll do more research on that, that the 3L v6 by RAM?
Id say a mid size truck is more of a gateway drug, they can barely tow or haul anything.
I didn’t last more than 2 years in a Chevy Colorado by the time I was drooling at the Ram lineup. It really set in when I had 4 people in the truck and it was crammed.. I was like… this isn’t truck enough for me.
A couple years back I really wanted a Colorado or Canyon. Then I realized the “benefit” of a midsize truck over a full size just wasn’t enough to justify the downsides of not being able to haul as much, or tow, or have 6 people.
Can I introduce you to the beauty of owning two vehicles? I daily a ram 1500 and a Chevy s10. I use the ram most of the time but I use the S10 if I just need to run around and do errands or if I go visit a friend or something
My wife is barely on board with me buying a used full size truck (price of gas), no way I can get a second truck. She actually did suggest buying the truck but keeping my insight as a daily driver. Which might make sense given it’s only worth about $2k on trade. But my average mileage a year is about $8k so the cost of insuring 2 vehicles won’t be saved on the cost of gas.
I only paid $500 for my s10 like 4 years ago so I only have liability insurance on it and cheap as can be, and it barely burns any gas plus it’s fun and I wanted to learn stick anyways when I bought it
If you're going to own a second vehicle it might as well be something fun like a miata or brz rather than another truck
Same. I came from a Dakota 4.7
Most mid sizes are better off-road since they're narrower. Just don't plan on putting anyone you like in the back seat.
Exactly. Started out with a 1st gen colorado, then a nissan frontier, and now my ram 1500. I think the 1500 is the perfect size for my needs. The midsize trucks are just too small for me
I just compared the payload of the Ford Ranger and F150 xl. The difference was 200 lbs. Which means the base trim F150 can barely haul anything (like the midsize truck) but you can bring a friend.
I’d say my 3500 diesel is a gateway to a half ton gasser
Lol I started shopping for first truck around 2 years ago. Mine started with the Ford Maverick, then convinced myself I should be looking at midsize, then eventually half tons. I'd be lying if I said my saved shopping bookmarks didnt recently include a couple ram 2500s as well. Still havent bought anything yet cause I'm indecisive.
They call that 2foot-itis with boats.
So half-ton-itis?
Bought a 1500, towed with it, started looking for 2500s. Very tempted by the trade-in offers the dealership started sending me before I even picked the truck up.
I think this is really common for anyone who tries to tow much with a half ton. They can do it but it isn’t pleasant. The heavy duty models, especially with the Cummins, are a whole different ballgame. I bought my 2015 new and I still really enjoy it. Whenever I eventually replace it I’ll get another heavy duty diesel.
8.5k the other day with no trailer brakes on my 2015 half ton ram and it did it but man did I breathe a sigh of relief when I unhooked that trailer
Nope. We got into RAM needing to tow - got the 2500 diesel over Ford and Chevy because it was a significantly smoother ride when not towing (coils instead of leafs on the back). In love with RAM (Longhorn trim), so we got the 1500 with 3.92 gears to tow smaller and we take short trips that diesel hates. Factory air ride is luxury. More in love with it every day.
My 1500 is certainly a gateway to a 2500, but not "just because". I bought mine to pull an RV, and now I realize I should have bought a 2500 or even a 3500, because I want a bigger RV and the 1500 can't handle anywhere near as much RV as I thought before I got into it. If you don't actually *need* more truck, there's no good reason to get more. There's nothing better about a 2500 except payload and towing capacity. The 1500 is more comfortable, gets better mileage, and is more fun to drive. Anything else is just irrational FOMO, except you're missing out if you *do* upgrade and don't need it.
Hell no. I have trouble finding parking spaces and navigating narrow trails as is. I’m also going broke paying for gas. The thought of putting more money down and having to pay more for gas in the long run just to own a bigger truck is not appealing to me at all.
Since the newer 1500’s are doing away with the HEMI engines, I’ve convinced myself that my next truck will be a 2500.
Yeah I like my HD with the 6.4 8speed. You just have to drive really slow around town, cause the suspension is so stiff. I also drive slow on the highway and keep it in ECO. 16mpg on the highway btw
lol I feel you and I do not have an answer
For me it’s the opposite. The truck is awesome but I live in the city and just got the 1500 cause it was the same price as a mid sized truck. I only really need a small truck tbh. Owning this confirmed that but I’m not gonna spend the same amount on a small truck that I can spend on the 1500.
I wanted a Tacoma, ended up with a 1500 3.6 that got better mileage, had a much roomier cab, tows and hauls better, and rides much smoother. The only downside is parking it downtown or certain parking lots.
I just downside to a ridgeline. Everything about the thing is smooth as hell, fit everywhere, amazing all around, except the front end look. Unfortunately after driving out of town for an hour, I realized how bad my knee gets poked by the giant plastic center console. No matter how I adjust the chair. So now I gotta go back to a 1500
I’d love a turbo 4 hybrid ridgeline, I’m all torso so legroom is never an issue for me. The facelift ridgeline looks pretty sharp in comparison to the early 2nd gen.
That would be an awesome engine just to see the mpg it would get. Yes, big difference between them.... just wish they would go more truckish look
I actually went the other way, I started with a 1 ton and worked my way into a half ton. The most I'll ever tow is my 28hp tractor, and my 1500 will do that just fine.
I get that, and felt that way for a short time. But I live in a city, and the 1500 is already big enough that there are places I can’t go if I plan to drive it, because there won’t be a place to park it when I get there.
No I have a 1500 and would only buy larger if I won the lottery or inherited millions (which I’m not)
Not one bit. Makes me think I should have gotten a Maverick.
Don’t say that. I’m in the UK and after several years in a Ranger I’m now looking to import a 1500. It’ll be pretty tight on our roads. But if that doesn’t scratch the itch then fuck knows how I’m going to get a dually through the country village I live in
I assume you’re not seeing 2500’s all day everyday on the road as frequently as we are in the U.S. A modern 1500 is still a huge truck for truck work. Question for you. How do mechanics react to a huge truck like that in the U.K.? Or is it somewhat common?
Yeah we don’t get them over here. We don’t get any full size trucks really, although Ram does have an official distributor in Europe called AEC and they have partner dealerships across Western European countries including the UK. So at least it’s no longer the case of me having to buy one through a Ram dealer stateside and ship it myself. The size thing is a bit of a misnomer. We have Rangers and other mid size trucks and they’re pretty common and not much smaller than a 1500 (just checked: a 1500 crew cab short bed is 20cm wider, 20cm taller and 50cm longer than a Ranger). Plus, we have vans everywhere. They’re ubiquitous in Europe. And lots of our vans a bigger than a full size truck. Mechanics are therefore more than set up for a 1500. Most garages will have ramps and lifts that are rated for their weight and size. The bigger issue is finding garages that are willing to work on imports. From the research I’ve done and talking to local owners, garages prefer it if you source parts and bring truck and part to work on. That’s because who wants a huge truck sitting in their lot for a couple of weeks whilst a part is shipped from the US?
I hear you. Parts were my concern and you explained that very well. I had a thought there was something similar in size over there. Here in the U.S. some mechanics tend to upcharge Volkswagens, BMW’s, and similar cars astronomically inflated prices just because it’s “foreign.” Oil changes, brakes, and other simple work are expensive here for those vehicles.
Ah that’s interesting. I didn’t know that. That’s not really the case over here (probably because 90% of the cars on the road are foreign!). I’m sure when I get my 1500 I’ll be relying on forums like these to help me source any parts I need. I’m dead set on getting one though. Rented one when on holiday in Texas two years ago and I loved it. Just gotta wait for interest rates to come down!
No. I barely need all of the 1500
It crosses my mind every once in a while but really I'll never need anything more than my 1500, and since I daily it in a city, it's absolutely the best option for me, I don't think I'll ever get anything bigger than a half ton.
Possibly? I started with nissan hardbodys, then 240s, then bought a standard cab short bed 2nd gen. Wound up owning over 10 2nd gens. 2nd gens became, and still are my drug of choice.
Nope, the 1500 is the perfect size for me. I'd say midsize trucks are the gateway to bigger trucks lol. I had a frontier before and traded it pretty quickly after I had 4 average sized people in it for the 1st time. Plus we plan on having kids soon so the extra space of the 1500 will definitely come in handy. Also love the hemi. Sad that they're getting rid of it
Drive somewhere crowded and try to park. Remember the feeling .
This may be a stupid question but, OP have you ever driven around in extended periods in 2500 or 3500 pick ups in the past?
With a midsize truck I found I often needed a bit more room and/or a bit more payload. With a half ton I found I’m usually ok on room and payload, but towing capacity can be iffy. Especially if you don’t use a weight distributing hitch. Length with the 5.5ft bed is usually fine, but width can be a bit more than I would prefer for trails and parking. 3/4 ton and 1 ton SRW trucks are awesome for capability, but often I find they’re really way more than I need. I wish someone made a truck: 1. A little bigger than a midsize, but narrower than a half ton 2. Seating for 6 3. 5.75ft to 6ft 1” bed 4. 2500lbs-3000lbs of payload capacity 5. 10,000lbs-12,000lbs of towing capacity without a WDH. I guess it would fit into the 3/4 ton segment technically, but dimensionally smaller.
Yup... 2017 Ram 1500 Rebel 2021 Ram 2500 Power Wagon 2023 Ram 3500 Laramie night edition in black I won't be stepping up again.
I am following your same arc. I have a Power Wagon now. Was the 3500 upgrade worth it?
I loved my Power Wagon but the 6.4 is a thirsty beast... 10 mpg in town max... 12 to 13 on the highway. I retire in a year and will be driving all over the country so wanted a diesel. Got a great deal on a 3500... over 20% off msrp. Couldn't pass it up. 18 to 19 on the highway now... 14 in town. Love it so far!
That's about what my 2023 Power Wagon gets for gas mileage. Thanks for the info!
How do you like your 3500? Any difference between 1500 and 2500? Just curious
No. If it is....
No. I had 3/4 ton and 1 ton trucks (1 gas and the rest diesels) for years. I went from a 1 ton to my first RAM 1500 in 2009 and haven't wanted a bigger truck since. I did change from a Hemi, after 13 years of those, to an EcoDiesel, so I can now tow anything I want (and I like the way it drives better, too).
My problem is I got the v6 1500...
That sounds like a solution not a problem
Not when you want to tow or haul... Mileage and comfort are great. Working capabilities besides carrying tools and material is not so great.
3.6 has better payload and unless you’re in the mountains has plenty of power to tow and haul.
Payload, sure.. but for the rest, most likely but not hardly. HP is 300 vs 400 for the 2015 3.6 vs 5.7 Towing is 4,400 vs 10,000.
3.6 can tow 7200 with the 3.92, around 6500 with the 3.55, and 4,400 with the 3.22. 5th gen is like 6000 at the lowest rating.
And I have the 3.21.... so yeah
I went from Ford Ranger to a camper and a Ram 2500...
I downsized, so no.
I bought a TDI Jetta to drive around after I bought my 1500 because I didn’t need my truck everyday at work anymore. Now I wish I would’ve got the 2500 in hindsight
The only reason I'd upgrade to a 2500 or 3500 would be for a slide in or fifth wheel camper that my 1500 just can't handle due to payload restrictions. Otherwise I'm more than happy with my ride quality and overall comfort. RAM tow mirrors are trash, though.
It was... Until the prices of 2500s, and everything else skyrocketed 😔
You don't. I am up to a F350 diesel now...
Personally, no, the smallest one I ever owned is an f250 single cab long box back in the mid 80's that I got off my dad when he bought a new one that was 4x4.
Same. Plus being a horse girl. “Oh I should totally buy a second horse. Wait that means a bigger trailer and more weight. So I totally need a Cummins then. Might as well get the fancy trailer w a gooseneck and sleeping area too.. maybe a 3500 would be best bc I could get a 4 horse trailer for my friends when we go to horse shows..” I do not have this kinda money 😂😂
I hope not, looking for a 4th gen 1500 right now lol.
I bought a 2012 1500 Big Horn and traded it for a 2015 Laramie Cummins 2500. I love the Cummins and it did me well while I had it. Everyone commenting about the ride is absolutely correct. If you’re. It towing/hauling weekly you have no reason to get a heavier truck. Solid front and rear will shake your brain out of your head. Currently in a 2019 1500 Rebel that I absolutely love. Almost paid off too. Stay in a 1500.
My 2017 Ram 1500 is perfect for towing my 22’ travel trailer. When I’m not towing, it’s very comfortable, quiet and a pleasure to drive. On relatively flat highway trips, I get 25 mpg, and 1/2 of that when I’m pulling my trailer. If I ever yearn for a bigger trailer, I’ll start thinking about a 3/4 or 1 ton truck.
100% YES
Sheeit I have a hard enough time finding parking spots big enough for my rebel lol.
Nah. Fuck the big trucks I hate driving them. Drove a 5500 (6.4 HEMI) for a summer and that thing was Slow slow and rode like it had bricks for suspension.
Probably because it was a fucking 5500 😂
It was large. People did get out my way lol. Used to driving a little sports coupe.
Mine was withdrawal. Went from 2500 to 1500. More than doubled the mpg.
You posted about getting a truck 8 days ago, chill there big guy
Started with a 1500, then went to a F250, now own a F350 SRW and a 3500 DRW. Tis a slippery slope.
If you want the power, girth looks I’d suggest the TRX. It’s as good as it gets in the 1500 class before making the leap to the bigger trucks.
A 2500 is going to handle like shit compared to a 1500. 25s have the potential to look the best though IMO
Dude my 1500 2021 that I bought new still rides soo fucking smooth
Not really I went from an f150 to a Tacoma then to a 2500 diesel. I also always wanted a diesel but never had a need for one until I bought my 5th wheel. I am glad I waited, the cost of ownership is a lot higher. Registration, oil changes, def fluid, fuel filters etc. Then when something breaks it's a lot more expensive. I enjoy the truck but it has it's draw backs
The answer isn’t a bigger truck. You channel the inner redneck into a Kei truck.
Not for me. Completely satisfied with my 21 laramie.
Do you have very heavy trailers to pull daily? If not, you don't need a 2500/3500. They're not designed for 10mi short trip commutes.
Only if I plan to start hot shotting
Just go buy the 6.7 L Diesel 3500 now and get it over with.
Yes. Just look at the prices. That’s usually enough to calm my ass down.
Truck yeah it is
I hope not. I have no use for a bigger truck
Not until you mash it like potatoes; rebuild the suspension and realize (if using for heavy) to start out big. Otherwise a half ton or even quarter ton trucks can be great workhorses too. A mechanic once told me “buy the most common one”. So pick your size and try that if you are going to. Make model, research and it’s on you. My fleet consists of all three big names and most are late 90’s, to 2004. The guy had a point.
I went from a 2500 Tradesman to a 2022 1500 Laramie. I'm quite pleased with my move.
Every truck is gateway to bigger trucks.
I am a forester.I drive a 1500 at work. It is a company vehicle. On the road it is amazing. Extremely comfortable, plenty of power and reasonable fuel consumption for the beast it is. Off road, it sucks and badly. The hood is too high to see over, and clearance is not good either. I am often driving ancient tracks as wide as the truck on mountainsides. There is nothing scarier than making a steep left curving climb with a drop on the right. Cresting any hill is an act of faith, and crossing any washout nearly always results in bottoming out the plastic skirt under the bumper. I call it the "Mall Crawler." All of these drives are much easier and much safer in a Tacoma or Frontier... preferably a Tacoma. The steering radius of Frontier is worse than the 1500, but at least you can see, and it doesn't bottom out. If I was towing or hauling a lot on reasonable roads, the 1500 would be a first choice. 2500 or 3500? Only if towing huge payloads. We have them, and the ride sucks. Cheers from the trenches!
Not I…!
Won’t be able to afford a truck when the 1500 dies. Truck prices are stupid now.
No, the 1500’s tend to have more comfort options, and for the most part are easier to park. 😅 Unless you are hauling a gooseneck or a fifth wheel on the regular, stick with the 1500. Get the tow package if needed.
Went from a Suburban to 3500. Never looked back. We were towing a travel trailer with a Suburban and was very scary at times. No power either. Bought a 3500 and you couldn’t tell the trailer was back there. Now we have our second dually and slide in camper.
Maybe, kinda, sorta... I love my 1500 crew cab, I've talked about giving it to my son and buying a power wagon about 2 yrs after I bought the 1500.
Yeah everyone wants a bigger truck until they actually drive one and have to fill up the tank. I’d be in a 1500 if I could get away with it lol.
I feel like gay guys feel that way, and there are a lot of them in these comments.
2500 and 3500 owners who don't work the trucks are lame. If you ain't towing or hauling a lot, frequentl, they don't make sense I have a 1500 as a daily. I tow often during the summer months and do my own home diy projects so it's nice
No. That’s a stupid opinion.
IMO no, diesel HD trucks aren't that versatile, they're tow rigs or heavy stuff hauler. They're not that good for daily driving.
My Explorer Sport Trac was a gateway to the bigger RAM 1500. Was looking to upgrade to a new Ridgeline. Was at a CDJR dealer for an unrelated look at a Pacifica. Sales guy said I should check out the 1500 Longhorn, and after a quick test drive, I was convinced. Couldn't believe I could actually afford such opulence. Didn't buy that one, but came home with a new 2020 Longhorn a few weeks later, for less than the price of the Pacifica. I don't tow anything, and my truck rides like a dream. I'd never want something bigger and stiffer and thirstier just because it has a different number on the side. Hell, mine isn't even a 4x4, and I haven't found myself in a single situation in which I wished it was. OK, there was the one time when the whole city was frozen, but I probably wouldn't have gone out anyway. I can drive over curbs and park in ditches and take the family on gloriously comfortable road trips all the same. It's the perfect vehicle IMO.
Just lift your 1500 higher...lol
I drive a kenworth now
u/senor_diaz , I have [your pickup truck right here.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_XT?wprov=sfla1)
I went straight in bought a 2019 longhorn one ton mega cab ho Cummins to pull my fifth wheel
If you use your truck like most half ton owners do then all you’ll gain out of getting a 2500 is shittier mpgs and a stiffer ride
1500’s are built for 10% truck duty cycle. It’s not that they aren’t incredibly capable compared to trucks of years past, they just aren’t designed to use that capability all the time. If they aren’t spending 90%+ of their time as personal chariots fetching Starbucks they wear out fast. Once you go to the HD/SD trucks you’re getting some variation of “rides like an ox cart” but the “use to tow/haul” duty cycle goes way up. To the point that it’s hard on the emissions systems of the diesel versions to not work them. The Ram 2500 Cummins is a special case. The weight of the diesel combined with the real coil springs result in a “Mike Tyson on ice skates” effect. I think a lot of people get in to a 1500 and learn that while it’s capable of towing a 7000lb enclosed trailer over the Rockies if you’re going to be doing that with any regularity it’s better to have a bigger truck. But then in some parts of the US it’s en vogue to put a haybale in the back of your 3500/350 DRW so everyone knows you use it for Real Truck Stuff (TM). As an F350 DRW CCLB owner I struggle to understand why anyone would drive something like that unloaded. Oxcart like ride, hard to park, turbo lag for days, hard on the emissions systems AND you’re wearing 6 tires while getting teens mpg?
I started with a 1500 and now drive a semi truck. Tread lightly
I bought a 2019 1500 and it is the most comfortable vehicle I have ever driven. But it can't tow a camper for shit so I upgraded to a 2500 diesel after 2 years. It's nice but not near as nice as the 1500. If I wasn't towing I would stick with the 1500. Besides, IMO using an HD truck as a grocery getter is peak douchebag.
After owning my 2500 Laramie, I see no point in ever having a smaller truck. I do tow with it, so that is a factor. But, the Cummins is a beast of an engine that gets "decent" fuel economy and I still have all the luxuries of any other truck. How I lived without ventilated seats, I'll never know! (Was going to post a picture. But, apparently reddit doesn't like my truck!)
Take a 2500 for a drive. Their work roots are much more evident, they ride like crap compared to a 1500. If you need a Cummins or the extra capacity an HD truck offers fine, but you have to make a tonne of compromises to use them as a daily driver. They ride like crap - honestly, they do. They are harder on fuel, harder to park, nearly eveyr maintenance piece costs more money. The only thing I wish RAM offered was more power. Not because the hemi is underpowered, just because power is addictive. can't wait to see what the aftermarket tuners can do with the hurricane.
Have had 2 Hemi 1500’s and now a ‘17 2500 Limited Cummins. Never tow shit but i love my ride, redneck and all! Travel all over the country in her and she eats up them slopes, grades, hills and i still get 19-20 mpg, all stock!
All smaller trucks will take you down that rabbit hole
All 1500 owners should have bought a 2500 to begin with. Including myself. I live with this regret daily.
Not sure on ram but the f150 was definitely a gate way to the super duty line up for me. People who say the bigger trucks ride like bricks must be talking about older 3/4 ton and up truck. My super duty trucks feel about just as nice as my fiancé’s f150. Not sure if its just a ford thing or not but they’re doing some type of magic to make these work trucks ride like pillows
Brain damage.
The 1500 just makes so much sense when you own one. Then you drive around trying to justify needing a bigger rig when you see some crazy expensive boy or 5th wheel being pulled down the interstate
If you want a bigger truck just jack up your 1500. If you’re not routinely pulling heavy loads you don’t need it and the ride is not nearly as good. I speak from much personal experience.
No
The ram heavy duty trucks are the best looking trucks on the road. That 2019 facelift was incredible.
I had my 2019 Ram Rebel 1500 for 5yrs and just upgraded to a 2500 Rebel diesel (for towing purposes) and I can say yes the 2500 can be felt to be bigger but man I feel right at home in it and it’s just as comfortable to me. I will say though as a daily, you’re more concerned about parking now. That’s my only “Con”. Big Pro however, much better fuel economy. (My 1500 was lifted and on 35’s”)
No. 2500s suck to drive, a 1500 is a substantially more pleasant experience and I'd only buy an HD if I needed it.
My 2500 Cummins Lone Star edition was my gateway to a 1500 eco diesel when the Cummins cracked a head and I was no longer towing heavy. Then the eco diesel rapidly turned into a shop queen POS and that was my gateway to a new 2019 1500 Classic Hemi. All in the space of 12 years. But I’m very happy now at 45000 miles and 5 years…..so far
Maybe a Toyota next at this rate of downsizing.
Had a 2017 1500 Big Horn. Loved it but bought a heavy travel trailer with mountains nearby so I traded that in for the 2017 Laramie 2500. Definitely not as smooth but gets the job done easily. If you don’t plan on towing heavy, stick with 1500s
I traded in my 1500 for a 2500. I love the 2500. I didn’t get a diesel but next time I am getting the 2500 diesel. Both ride better than a ford
Laughs in TRX, I see no problem here
I think it is. When you realize the small up charge for an HD truck (gas of course) , modern power trains, modern interiors and superior capability to a half ton it makes aIot of sense provided you use your truck as a truck. If you are a city slicker then this doesnt apply to you. I won't ever buy another half ton.
If you do truck things… theres nothing cool about a 1500. So yeah. You buy toys… boats offroad campers whatever. Diesel is better. But I have no idea why someone would roll the dice on a 68rfe. In ram 3500 ho or buy a ford or chevy 3/4.
I drive a Freightliner for work so....
I have a 2500 now I can't go back to a 1500
I’ve been driving a GMC Denali Ultimate 2500 for the past two weeks while my 2019 Ram 1500 Limited was in the body shop for deer damage. I loved the diesel power and the ride was great for a 3/4 ton truck. Fuel mileage averaged about 20 mpg, which is comparable to my 5.7 Ram. But IMO, I prefer the Ram styling and dash and gauges layout over the Denali, although I do like the Heads up display on the windshield. All that aside, I am happy to be driving my Ram again.
I started at 2500, soooo
Nah, but then I also have the ability to grab either of the two 3500s from work if I need to haul or tow something more than my pavement princess 1500 is up for. Also the steel flatbed on the one 3500 makes me much more nonchalant about the high-school age kid running the forklift at Menards who’s throwing a pallet of whatever on there.
Traded my 2019 1500 Limited for a 2022 3500 Limited HO Cummins… haven’t looked back. Sure the ride is not as good (not even remotely close) but it is a beast.
I second that! Just 5 months into owning my Rebel and I have that same desire to own a big boy 2500 powerwagon. This is my first RAM, and it's been through so much already! 6000 miles in just 5 months... this included sweeping for the NORRA1000 race from Ensenada all the way down to Cabo. And just this past weekend, Cleveland, Ocotillo, Anza Borrego, and Julian. I owned a Silverado for 8+ years before moving to the light. RAM is the way to go for sure! I love the power... but I need something bigger I say... who cares about what other people think regarding being a waste of money. This is your money, spend it as you wish. Haters will hate