Ram 2500 Vs. Sierra 2500: Which Truck Takes The Crown In 2023?

When it comes to heavy-duty pickup trucks, the Ram 2500 and Sierra 2500 stand out as two of the most capable and versatile options on the market. Both trucks offer impressive towing and payload capacities, along with a range of features and amenities that cater to both work and recreational needs. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into the key differences between the Ram 2500 and Sierra 2500, helping you make an informed decision about which truck is the right choice for you.

Powertrain and Performance:

1. Engine Options:

• Ram 2500: The Ram 2500 offers a choice of two powerful engines: a 6.4L V8 Hemi engine producing 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine delivering 370 horsepower and a massive 850 lb-ft of torque.
• Sierra 2500: The Sierra 2500 also offers two engine options: a 6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel engine producing 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.2L V8 gasoline engine generating 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.

2. Towing and Payload Capacities:

• Ram 2500: With the 6.4L V8 Hemi engine, the Ram 2500 can tow up to 17,540 pounds and carry a payload of up to 3,260 pounds. When equipped with the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine, the towing capacity increases to an impressive 20,000 pounds, while the payload capacity remains the same.
• Sierra 2500: The Sierra 2500 with the 6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel engine boasts a towing capacity of up to 18,500 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 3,979 pounds. The 6.2L V8 gasoline engine offers a towing capacity of up to 13,400 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 2,250 pounds.

Interior and Features:

1. Cabin Design and Comfort:

• Ram 2500: The Ram 2500 features a spacious and well-appointed cabin with comfortable seating for up to six passengers. The interior is designed with a focus on functionality and durability, with high-quality materials and intuitive controls.
• Sierra 2500: The Sierra 2500 also offers a spacious cabin with ample seating for up to six passengers. The interior is refined and stylish, with premium materials and a user-friendly infotainment system.

2. Infotainment and Technology:

• Ram 2500: The Ram 2500 comes equipped with a user-friendly Uconnect infotainment system that features a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration. Higher trim levels offer larger touchscreens, navigation, and a premium audio system.
• Sierra 2500: The Sierra 2500 features the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, which includes a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration. Higher trim levels offer larger touchscreens, navigation, and a Bose premium audio system.

Off-Road Capabilities:

1. Four-Wheel Drive Systems:

• Ram 2500: The Ram 2500 offers a choice of two four-wheel drive systems: a part-time system with manual engagement and an automatic four-wheel drive system that engages when needed.
• Sierra 2500: The Sierra 2500 also offers two four-wheel drive systems: a part-time system with manual engagement and an automatic four-wheel drive system that engages when needed.

2. Ground Clearance and Suspension:

• Ram 2500: The Ram 2500 has a ground clearance of 9.3 inches and features a heavy-duty suspension system with coil springs in the front and leaf springs in the rear.
• Sierra 2500: The Sierra 2500 has a ground clearance of 10.8 inches and features a heavy-duty suspension system with coil springs in the front and leaf springs in the rear.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features:

1. Standard Safety Features:

• Ram 2500: The Ram 2500 comes standard with a range of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control.
• Sierra 2500: The Sierra 2500 also comes standard with a range of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control.

2. Available Driver Assistance Features:

• Ram 2500: The Ram 2500 offers a variety of available driver assistance features, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning.
• Sierra 2500: The Sierra 2500 also offers a range of available driver assistance features, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning.

Reliability and Maintenance:

1. Reliability Ratings:

• Ram 2500: The Ram 2500 has received mixed reliability ratings from various sources. Some surveys have reported a higher incidence of problems, while others have found it to be relatively reliable.
• Sierra 2500: The Sierra 2500 has generally received better reliability ratings compared to the Ram 2500. It has been praised for its durable construction and dependable performance.

2. Maintenance Costs:

• Ram 2500: The maintenance costs for the Ram 2500 can vary depending on the specific model, engine choice, and usage. However, overall, the maintenance costs are typically in line with other heavy-duty pickup trucks.
• Sierra 2500: The maintenance costs for the Sierra 2500 are also comparable to other heavy-duty pickup trucks. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is essential for keeping the truck running smoothly.

Pricing and Trims:

1. Starting Prices:

• Ram 2500: The starting price for the Ram 2500 ranges from approximately $37,000 to $75,000, depending on the trim level, engine choice, and optional features.
• Sierra 2500: The starting price for the Sierra 2500 ranges from approximately $38,000 to $77,000, depending on the trim level, engine choice, and optional features.

2. Trim Levels:

• Ram 2500: The Ram 2500 is available in five trim levels: Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited. Each trim level offers a different combination of features and amenities.
• Sierra 2500: The Sierra 2500 is available in six trim levels: Work Truck, Custom, SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. Each trim level offers a different combination of features and amenities.

The Bottom Line:

The Ram 2500 and Sierra 2500 are both exceptional heavy-duty pickup trucks that offer impressive capabilities and a wide range of features. The Ram 2500 stands out with its powerful engine options, particularly the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine, which delivers exceptional towing and payload capacities. The Sierra 2500, on the other hand, offers a more refined interior, better reliability ratings, and a more extensive range of available driver assistance features. Ultimately, the choice between the Ram 2500 and Sierra 2500 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize raw power and towing capabilities, the Ram 2500 is an excellent choice. If you value refinement, reliability, and a comprehensive suite of features, the Sierra 2500 is worth considering.

Popular Questions

1. Which truck has better fuel efficiency, the Ram 2500 or Sierra 2500?

• Both trucks offer similar fuel efficiency ratings, with the Ram 2500 averaging around 15-17 mpg in combined city and highway driving, and the Sierra 2500 averaging around 14-16 mpg.

2. Does the Ram 2500 or Sierra 2500 offer a crew cab configuration?

• Yes, both trucks are available in a crew cab configuration, which provides seating for up to six passengers and offers more interior space.

3. Which truck has a higher ground clearance, the Ram 2500 or Sierra 2500?

• The Sierra 2500 has a slightly higher ground clearance of 10.8 inches compared to the Ram 2500’s 9.3 inches.