Orange Coast Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram
If you are looking for a truck with plenty of power and capability to take on any task, look no further than Ram. Sold under the nameplate Dodge Ram until 2009, Ram has taken over the truck market as a stand alone truck brand, particularly with their heavy-duty models like the Ram 2500. Ever since the split, Ram 2500 models have gotten better and better with increases in performance and more unique luxury features not seen from other brands in the market. That's why if you are looking at any used Ram 2500, you are sure to be surprised by all of the power and features it has.
The Ram 2500 is the perfect work companion, with high tow ratings and ever-advancing technology to make doing any job a breeze. This heavy-duty pickup is full of interior comforts, safety features, and luxury features that usually take a while to be added into the truck segment. Whether you are looking at a used Ram model from 2010 or 2020, you are sure to find the best features that Ram has to offer with power that just won't quit.
Within the past decade, the Ram 2500 has seen a tremendous amount of upgrades. The 2010 Ram 2500 was the last model to be sold under the branding of Dodge Ram, and it wasn’t until the following year when Ram had become its own name entirely. When the 2011 model launched, the Ram 2500 was given a fresh new selection of powertrains with the highly-capable turbodiesel engine pumping out an impressive 800 lb-ft of torque. This sparked a new era of Ram trucks as the available diesel-powered engine for the Ram 2500 allowed for a maximum towing capacity of 14,300 lbs.
It wasn’t until three model years later when the Ram 2500 was given another bump in performance. With this new V8 engine, the lineup now had a powertrain capable of producing 428 lb-ft of torque while powered with gasoline. For the next few years, the performance metrics remained the same for the lineup, with a majority of new features for the 2016 model year including both safety and connectivity-oriented features.
These tech-centric features would see an overhaul in 2018 with the likes of a substantially larger infotainment center, for example. The 2019 Ram 2500 was given an overhaul that included an array of enhancements in the interior and exterior. The performance also got yet another bump to a whopping 850 lb-ft of torque. Ram would go on to include more luxury-oriented features in the following years, but the performance from the 2019 model year continues into this day.
Currently in its fifth generation, the Ram 2500 heavy-duty pickup has come a long way since its initial launch. Most notably, this truck now holds broad appeal to buyers who wouldn't traditionally choose a pickup truck. This unintended explosion of the truck demographic is thanks to Ram's focus on interior appointments, comfort, and even high-end luxury.
To say this isn't your grandfather's truck is an understatement; one look at the top-of-the-line Ram 2500 Limited reveals an elegant leather-appointed cabin, next-level infotainment and connectivity, and plenty of room for large families. It's road trip ready and dressed up well enough to feel right at home in just about any setting.
Here's a look back at the Ram 2500's evolution.
It all started back in 1981, when these trucks wore a Dodge emblem and Ram was the model name for the full-size pickup lineup. From 1981 - 1994, the first generation was known as simply Ram for two-wheel drive versions and Power Ram for trucks equipped with four-wheel drive. The 2500 series was (and still is today) a three-quarter-ton option designed for heavy-duty use.
The first-generation Dodge Ram struggled to compete with its American rivals, mostly because Dodge didn't fully commit to a robust lineup and a competitive range of engine options. That all changed in 1989 with the addition of an optional 5.9-liter Cummins diesel engine. After this move, sales of heavy-duty Dodge Rams skyrocketed and set the stage for future success.
Riding the wave brought on by expanding its engine offerings, Dodge focused on exterior design, producing an early version of what we see today. Released as a 1994 model, the all-new Dodge Ram 2500 pickup featured a larger grille and more aggressive lines, especially on the front end.
The truck was so successful that MotorTrend bestowed it with the coveted Truck of the Year award. It was the first in a series of awards bestowed on the Ram by the automotive press. The lineup gained steam with consumers, reinforcing Dodge's commitment to focusing not only on capability but also on styling. This would prove to be a winning design strategy.
The Ram entered a new generation in the 2002 and 2003 model years. The smaller light duty 1500 received a full redesign and was launched in 2002, with the heavy-duty 2500 and 3500 joined it in 2003. It received substantial exterior and mechanical updates, but Dodge was careful to retain structural similarities from previous generations, so durability was unaffected by the cosmetic changes.
Throughout the third generation, which spanned 2003 - 2009, the Ram 2500 maintained a diesel engine option. In 2007, the engine lineup adjusted with the addition of a more powerful 6.7-liter Cummins diesel motor that delivered 640 lb-ft of torque, the highest-ever torque rating since the Ram's introduction.
Rolling in with the 2009 model year, the fourth-generation Dodge Ram hit showrooms in the fall of 2008. It was during this generation that Dodge divested its full-size pickup business and reformed it as a standalone brand, now known only as Ram. Because of its unique exterior styling, the Ram lineup gained even more sales momentum, stealing market share from the competition.
Ram continued offering a manual transmission option on the heavy-duty 2500 and 3500, despite its competitors discontinuing their stick shift models. However, Ram eventually had to follow the market, and 2018 represented the last model year this feature was available. Other notable changes included an optional air suspension in 2014 and an infusion of connected services and infotainment technology. The Ram 2500 was offered in a multitude of trims, including the high-end Limited trim.
The newest Ram truck debuted in 2019 to glowing reviews, and sales flourished. Capability continued to increase, and by 2021, the Ram 2500 had achieved a max tow rating of 20,000 pounds and a max payload of 4,010 pounds. Advanced trailering technology rounded out the 2500's mass appeal.
The 2021 model year marked the 75th anniversary of the original Power Wagon. Ram celebrated the milestone with a special 2500 Power Wagon 75th Anniversary Edition. It featured special exterior paint, badging, and a plethora of luxury and convenience upgrades via a package add-on. These included a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen, heated seats, and LED interior lighting.
Starting with a model with an older powertrain setup, the 2012 Ram 2500 was offered in two different powertrain configurations. The first configuration that came standard with the truck was a 5.7L V8 engine that was capable of towing upwards of 14,400 lbs, perfect for small boats, ATVs, motorbikes, and the like. The second engine that was available for this model was a turbodiesel 6.7L engine that produced 350 hp and 800 lb-ft of torque when paired with an automatic transmission. Thanks to this immense torque output, this engine helps raise the maximum towing capacity of the 2012 Ram 2500 to 15,500 lbs. This extra 1,100 lbs of towing capacity will surely be appreciated by any driver who tows regularly.
In the 2014 model year, a 6.4L V8 was added to the Ram 2500’s lineup. This new V8 produced 410 hp along with an increase to 428 lb-ft of torque. Although a comparatively smaller upgrade to its smaller V8 counterpart, many drivers opted for this engine as it raised the maximum towing capacity of a gasoline-powered engine to 15,940 lbs. Meanwhile, the turbodiesel 6.7L engine got a boost in performance, granting the 2014 Ram 2500 a maximum towing capacity of 17,490 lbs. With this maximum towing capacity, the 2014 Ram 2500 is capable of transporting various cargo trailer sizes.
A more recent model such as the 2019 Ram 2500 increases the vehicle’s towing capabilities even further. By this point, the lineup consisted of two engines, one gasoline-powered and one diesel-powered variant. The engine that comes standard with the 2019 Ram 2500 is the aforementioned 6.4L V8 that made its first appearance back in 2014. Because of this, the specs remain virtually identical in regards to horsepower, torque, and the maximum towing capacity. Once again, the turbodiesel 6.7L I-6 engine received another bump in power, this time allowing the truck to tow upwards of 19,780 lbs. This allows the 2019 Ram 2500 to tow semi-trailers with ease, along with various machinery such as a bulldozer, for example.
As you can see from just these three model highlights, any model year Ram 2500 is going to get you some incredible towing power. However, keep in mind that towing does vary from truck to truck, so always check your owner's manual for the specific amounts your particular 2500 can tow. Ram has gone above and beyond to improve towing capacity each year, and every time it gets more and more powerful.
While both the Ram 1500 and 2500 are ultimately part of the same family, the main difference between these two vehicles mostly comes down to performance. This then translates over to towing performance in which the Ram 2500 vastly outperforms the Ram 1500. The Ram 2500 can achieve better performance thanks in part to its powertrain options. Taking the 2019 Ram 1500 into consideration, a lower-end model will only tow up to about 6,730 lbs while capping out at 12,750 lbs.
Although these tow ratings are certainly ample for the entry-level truck that the Ram 1500 is centered at, it simply can’t compare to the available towing on a Ram 2500. Comparing the 2019 Ram 1500 to the 2019 Ram 2500, the latter can still support a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 lbs, swiftly outperforming the highest-tier Ram 1500 of that year, while in the upper-bounds, the Ram 2500 can tow up to 19,780 lbs. While the Ram 2500 is a better performer than the Ram 1500, it has a higher price to match its performance boost.
Inside the vehicles, you can expect much to be the same between the two models. Ram has continuously gotten better at constructing high-quality interiors that are designed for the utmost comfort and convenience. This is especially true for newer versions such as the 2019 model years. Both vehicles include infotainment centers with room for upgrades, along with a host of connectivity features such as Bluetooth and USB ports.
Luxury features are present on both vehicles, including amenities such as leather seating with heating controls, a rearview camera that assists with trailers. Additionally, several safety features can be added to both the Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 for those who would prefer the extra reliability. Regardless of which truck you opt for, you can expect a comfortable ride, with the only stark contrast between the two being relegated to the aforementioned performance.
Welcome to Orange Coast, your Ram headquarters, and the spot where you'll receive competitive pricing, low financing rates, and world-class customer service. It matters where you buy your heavy-duty truck. You need knowledgeable truck experts who understand how to help you find the truck that matches your specific needs and lifestyle.
It also matters because heavy-duty truck drivers put their rigs through a lot of hard, dirty work. Regular maintenance and inspections help keep it running factory new and eliminate unexpected service issues that keep you sidelined. When you partner with Orange Coast for all your driving needs, you have access to a team of highly trained factory-certified technicians.
When it's time to shop for a new heavy-duty truck, you might need some time to review your needs and evaluate a few options. Here at Orange Coast, we welcome you to browse our huge inventory of Ram 2500 pickups. We have everything from basic work trucks to fully loaded luxury versions that make the workweek a pleasure.
Our team of sales consultants takes a cooperative approach. They'll ask questions, learn what you're seeking, and help you narrow down your choices. We want you to love the truck you buy, so we invite you to take a test drive and make sure it feels right. Here at Orange Coast, we want you to take all the time you need so you walk away feeling happy and satisfied with your purchase.
Once you've settled on your new rig, our finance experts will take over. They'll scour the market for the most competitive lease and loan rates around. Our team is experienced working with all kinds of buyers, from individuals with stellar credit to fleet buyers and even those dealing with bad credit. We have the skills and the contacts to uncover a plan that will fit your individual financial circumstances.
When you secure financing via our in-house team, you'll also have access to a convenient online application to get a leg up on the paperwork. We will carefully consider your trade and work hard to give you top dollar so you save more. Whether you choose to lease or buy, our finance professionals will employ all the tricks of the trade to get your payment and interest rate as low as possible.
We hope that your purchase is just the beginning of a long relationship. Our state-of-the-art service center is equipped with all the tools and diagnostic equipment needed to keep your truck running great year after year. We use only certified Mopar parts, and our team of factory-trained technicians know every inch of every Ram truck.
Choose Orange Coast for all your scheduled maintenance and ongoing repair needs. We regularly post service specials on our website and invite you to check back often. Our mechanics are comfortable performing everything from simple oil and filter changes to far more complex repairs. You can count on our team to take great care of your new Ram.
If you’re looking for high-quality vehicles at competitive prices, come visit Orange Coast Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat today. If you need a Ram 2500, car, van, SUV, or a different type of truck, then we are the dealer for you. Our sales representatives are eager to help you find you a vehicle that you will love, and our finance team will help you get the best price and financing deal. Whether you’re looking for a used or brand new vehicle, we’ve got you covered.
Our dedicated customer service doesn't stop after the sale either. Our on-site service department is the best way to get servicing jobs done on your vehicle. Whether it’s a tune-up or a full-blown repair, our certified mechanics are ready to take on the task.
Our staff is your perfect car shopping and owning companion. From the sale to the service, we are here for you through every step of your car ownership. Once you’re ready to begin shopping for your dream vehicle, visit us at 2929 Harbor Blvd in Costa Mesa. We’re also only 40 minutes away from Los Angeles and 20 minutes away from Anaheim. Visit us now and drive away in your perfect vehicle today.
