My tester's quick-ratio power steering contributed to a sense of nimbleness beyond expectation for such a lengthy rig. Nicely calibrated, linear brake and throttle responses helped smooth-out the starts and stops of city driving while the vehicle's high ride height imparted very good visibility, enabling the driver to see over all but the tallest of vehicles. Off road prowess also benefits from the RAM's wide separation from Mother
Earth; of course ingress and egress suffers notably due to the expansive airspace between cab and tarmac. With a 1.93 metre (76.3 in) long box, the mighty RAM's incredible length of 6.3 metres (247.7 in) is balanced and nicely proportioned to its tallboy height of 2-metres (78.7 in). Naturally, vehicles of such stature are anything but light on their feet, and with a curb weight of 3,040 kg (6,702 lb), the colossal RAM is no exception; yet the Cummins-derived torque hustles the compelling mass with surprising athleticism. Acceleration and highway passing abilities are more than pleasing for this class of vehicle; seldom does the big-6 need to rev beyond 2,000 rpm to keep the RAM amid city traffic even though it's autobox is limited to only four forward gears. It's worth noting that GM's Duramax 6600 diesel engine is mated to a highly sophisticated Allison 6-speed automatic transmission, which can be electronically shifted with the use of a button situated at the end of the gear shift lever. On the RAM's plus side, a similar switch activates a tow-mode. It can also initiate a program to defeat the overdrive gearing in the Dodge's more basic autobox.
Along with tremendous durability, excellent fuel economy is a hallmark of diesel engines. EPA ratings for the Cummins-powered RAM 2500 are not available however expect a decent return in the range of 11-12 litres of
diesel per 100 kilometres of driving (19-20 mpg). When properly equipped, RAM pickups are tow-rated at 7,530 kg (16,600 lbs) and boast a maximum payload rating of 2,413 kg (5,320 lb). The extra stability derived from the long wheelbase of the RAM's Mega Cab pickups make these vehicles well suited to the long distance towing of 5th wheels, horse trailers and the like. These stretches are made all that much more enjoyable by the solidity of the RAM's chassis and its rigid body structure. I was taken aback somewhat by the ability of my tester to annihilate broken pavement without the accompaniment of a single squeak or rattle. The vehicle's overall sturdiness also helps keep road and wind noises at bay, allowing the Cummins-growl to permeate the cab unchallenged.
Although I have no legitimate use for such a vehicle, I enjoyed clambering aboard my Cummins-powered RAM and living the long-haul dream. Those with legitimate needs would be well served by the RAM 2500 diesel. It offers a unique combination of brute strength and voluminous interior real estate, not to mention extraordinary comfort and functionality.
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| (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Auto123.com) |
Along with tremendous durability, excellent fuel economy is a hallmark of diesel engines. EPA ratings for the Cummins-powered RAM 2500 are not available however expect a decent return in the range of 11-12 litres of
 |
| (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Auto123.com) |
Although I have no legitimate use for such a vehicle, I enjoyed clambering aboard my Cummins-powered RAM and living the long-haul dream. Those with legitimate needs would be well served by the RAM 2500 diesel. It offers a unique combination of brute strength and voluminous interior real estate, not to mention extraordinary comfort and functionality.
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