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Competition in the heavy-duty off-road truck market is intensifying as manufacturers launch new models. The arrival of the Chevy Silverado HD ZR2 and updated Ford Super Duty Tremor has shifted the landscape for 2023. Meanwhile, the 2025 Ram 2500 Power Wagon and Rebel HD aim to maintain their position with significant enhancements and technological upgrades.
The facts
Both models feature design updates and improved functionalities. The Rebel HD notably enhances its turbodiesel engine option. The Power Wagon continues to excel in off-road capabilities, while the Rebel HD’s updated engine increases its competitiveness.
Performance and engine options
The 2025 Ram 2500 Power Wagon is equipped exclusively with a 6.4-liter V-8 engine, producing 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. Unlike its competitors, it does not offer a turbodiesel option, leaving that opportunity for the Rebel HD. While the Power Wagon’s V-8 engine is reliable, it is less powerful than Ford’s 7.3-liter Godzilla V-8, which boasts modern improvements.
The Rebel HD comes standard with a gas V-8 engine, but its optional 6.7-liter Cummins inline-6 turbodiesel stands out. For $12,595, buyers gain access to 430 horsepower and a robust 1,075 lb-ft of torque, surpassing Chevy’s 975 lb-ft but falling short of Ford’s 1,200 lb-ft. The revamped Cummins engine features a new turbocharger and intake manifold, along with upgraded oil and fuel filtration systems. Moreover, the transition to an 8-speed automatic transmission has improved acceleration, reducing the 0-60 mph sprint to 6.9 seconds.
Power Wagon vs. Rebel HD
Despite advancements in the Rebel HD, Ram Heavy Duty Chief Engineer Doug Killian has acknowledged the demand for a turbodiesel option in the Power Wagon. However, technical limitations related to the oil pan’s compatibility with the Power Wagon’s front suspension inhibit this possibility. Nonetheless, there is increasing interest from customers for this upgrade.
Ride quality differs significantly between the two models. The Power Wagon offers excellent comfort, thanks to its soft Bilstein off-road shocks, which enhance the ride over rocky terrain. In contrast, the Rebel HD’s firmer suspension is designed for towing and hauling, resulting in a harsher ride. The Rebel HD can tow up to 17,130 pounds and carry 3,320 pounds with the gas engine. The turbodiesel option increases towing capacity to 19,890 pounds, although it reduces payload to 2,450 pounds.
Design and interior features
The 2025 Ram 2500 models feature a redesigned front end with new headlights and grilles, creating a more commanding road presence. The headlights appear taller, although the overall aesthetic may not receive universal praise. The rear end has been simplified with cleaner taillights that align with the updated design of the 2025 Ram 1500.
Both the Power Wagon and Rebel HD come with 33-inch all-terrain tires, while the Rebel features larger 20-inch wheels. Initial plans for 18-inch wheels on the Rebel did not materialize. Additionally, the inability to fit larger tires without clearance issues remains a disadvantage compared to competitors like the Ford Super Duty Tremor and Chevy Silverado HD ZR2, which come standard with 35-inch tires.
Interior comfort and technology
The interior of the Ram 2500 is known for its comfort, and the 2025 models continue this tradition with minimal changes. The standard 12.0-inch touchscreen is available with an optional 14.5-inch version, which replaces some physical buttons with digital alternatives. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster remains, featuring a boost gauge for the turbodiesel engine in the Rebel 2500, aiding performance monitoring.
A significant change has been made to the gear selector, with all Ram HD models now featuring a column-mounted electronic gear selector. This update responds to customer feedback, making it a welcomed adjustment.
Pricing and market position
Both models feature design updates and improved functionalities. The Rebel HD notably enhances its turbodiesel engine option. The Power Wagon continues to excel in off-road capabilities, while the Rebel HD’s updated engine increases its competitiveness.0
Both models feature design updates and improved functionalities. The Rebel HD notably enhances its turbodiesel engine option. The Power Wagon continues to excel in off-road capabilities, while the Rebel HD’s updated engine increases its competitiveness.1
Both models feature design updates and improved functionalities. The Rebel HD notably enhances its turbodiesel engine option. The Power Wagon continues to excel in off-road capabilities, while the Rebel HD’s updated engine increases its competitiveness.2