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The off-road market is becoming increasingly competitive, particularly in the heavy-duty segment. With the introduction of the Chevrolet Silverado HD ZR2 and a revamped Ford Super Duty Tremor for 2023, Ram is responding with updates for the 2025 Ram 2500 Power Wagon and 2500 Rebel HD. This article explores the enhancements and capabilities of these trucks, assessing their position against rivals.
Both the Power Wagon and Rebel HD feature significant design and technological upgrades, with the Rebel benefiting from a notable improvement to its turbodiesel engine option, enhancing its competitiveness in the market.
2025 Ram 2500 Power Wagon: a unique offering
Unlike the Silverado HD ZR2 and Ford Super Duty Tremor, the 2025 Ram 2500 Power Wagon does not offer a turbodiesel engine. Instead, it continues with the 6.4-liter V-8 engine, which produces 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. While this powertrain is effective, it lags behind Ford’s more advanced 7.3-liter Godzilla V-8.
The Rebel HD maintains the standard gas V-8 engine but offers an optional 6.7-liter Cummins inline-6 turbodiesel upgrade. This engine is particularly appealing for users who rely on their trucks for heavy-duty tasks, delivering an impressive 1,075 lb-ft of torque—more than Chevy’s 975 lb-ft but still less than Ford’s remarkable 1,200 lb-ft. The 2025 model introduces several modern enhancements to the Cummins engine, including a redesigned turbocharger, a new intake manifold, and a more efficient 8-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous 6-speed variant.
Performance improvements
These modifications have resulted in marked improvements in the Ram 2500’s acceleration. The time to reach 60 mph has decreased from 8.0 seconds to a brisk 6.9 seconds, demonstrating the effectiveness of the enhancements. Additionally, the new transmission allows for quick and seamless shifts, making it a robust alternative to Ford’s 10-speed automatic during towing scenarios.
2025 Ram 2500 Rebel HD: rising to the challenge
The Rebel HD has gained attention due to its enhancements, but Ram acknowledges that Power Wagon enthusiasts are interested in a turbodiesel option. Doug Killian, the Heavy Duty Chief Engineer at Ram, stated that the team is aware of this demand. However, technical challenges related to the engine’s oil pan and suspension compatibility have so far hindered the development of a diesel variant for the Power Wagon.
Despite these obstacles, the Rebel HD remains a competitive choice in the off-road segment. The Rebel’s suspension is stiffer than that of the Power Wagon, compromising ride comfort for enhanced towing and hauling capabilities. With the gas V-8, the Rebel can tow up to 17,130 pounds, with a payload capacity of 3,320 pounds. When the turbodiesel option is selected, towing capacity increases to an impressive 19,890 pounds, while payload capability slightly decreases to 2,450 pounds.
Ride dynamics
The on and off-road performance highlights the distinct characteristics of these two trucks. The Power Wagon is equipped with Bilstein off-road shocks for a smoother ride, while the Rebel’s shocks are tuned for a firmer experience to enhance capability. This difference is particularly evident in off-road scenarios. During testing in Nevada’s rugged terrain, the Rebel struggled with traction due to its lack of a front locker and electronic disconnecting sway bar, while the Power Wagon maintained traction and confidence.
Notable design changes and interior updates
Visually, the 2025 Ram HD lineup has undergone several changes. The front fascia features updated headlights and an imposing grille that enhances its aggressive stance. The rear has been simplified with redesigned taillights, aligning with a modern aesthetic. Ram continues to offer the Power Wagon with 18-inch wheels and 33-inch all-terrain tires, while the Rebel opts for 20-inch wheels.
Inside, the cabin remains familiar to existing Ram HD users, with an option for a larger 14.5-inch touchscreen in both models, integrating digital buttons instead of traditional hard buttons. The gear selector has also moved to a column-mounted electronic shifter, a change prompted by customer feedback.
Both the Power Wagon and Rebel HD feature significant design and technological upgrades, with the Rebel benefiting from a notable improvement to its turbodiesel engine option, enhancing its competitiveness in the market.0
Both the Power Wagon and Rebel HD feature significant design and technological upgrades, with the Rebel benefiting from a notable improvement to its turbodiesel engine option, enhancing its competitiveness in the market.1