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The landscape of heavy-duty off-road trucks is changing. Competitors like the Chevy Silverado HD ZR2 and Ford Super Duty Tremor are asserting their presence. In response, Ram continues to innovate with the refreshed 2025 Ram 2500 Power Wagon and 2500 Rebel HD. Both models feature significant design enhancements and technological advancements, solidifying their positions in this competitive segment.
The updated Rebel HD showcases an upgraded turbodiesel engine, enhancing its competitiveness. However, the Power Wagon excels in off-road capabilities, while the Rebel HD’s ride quality has drawn some criticism from enthusiasts.
Highlights of the 2025 Ram Power Wagon
The 2025 Ram 2500 Power Wagon is notable for its robust off-road features. However, it lacks an option for a turbodiesel engine, unlike its competitors. It relies on the reliable 6.4-liter V8 engine, which generates 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. While dependable, this engine does not match the power of Ford’s 7.3-liter Godzilla V8.
In contrast, the Rebel HD comes standard with a gas V8 but offers an upgrade to the impressive 6.7-liter Cummins inline-6 turbodiesel. This engine delivers a staggering 1,075 lb-ft of torque, appealing to buyers needing significant towing power. Although it surpasses Chevy’s 975 lb-ft, it still trails behind Ford’s remarkable 1,200 lb-ft. For 2025, the Cummins engine benefits from significant updates, including a new turbocharger and an 8-speed automatic transmission, improving both acceleration and maintenance ease.
Performance advancements
These enhancements enable the Rebel HD to achieve a 0-60 mph time of just 6.9 seconds, a notable improvement from the previous model’s 8.0 seconds. The 8-speed automatic transmission provides smooth gear shifts, ensuring a seamless driving experience, especially when towing. Compared to Ford’s 10-speed transmission, Ram’s system is less intrusive during towing scenarios, a critical consideration for many truck owners.
Rebel HD’s competitive edge
Despite the Power Wagon’s lack of a turbodiesel option, Ram’s Heavy Duty Chief Engineer, Doug Killian, acknowledges the rising demand for this feature. Ram understands the competitive landscape and the desire for a turbodiesel in the Power Wagon, yet challenges regarding the engine’s compatibility with the truck’s front suspension systems remain. While the company is open to engineering adjustments, the associated costs are significant.
The Rebel HD is designed for towing and hauling, boasting a total towing capacity of up to 17,130 pounds with the gas V8. This figure increases to an impressive 19,890 pounds with the turbodiesel option. Conversely, the Power Wagon focuses primarily on off-road performance, limiting its towing capacity to 10,530 pounds and payload to 1,570 pounds, which contributes to a smoother ride.
Ride quality comparison
Off-road excursions in Nevada reveal distinct differences in ride quality between the two trucks. The Power Wagon’s softer suspension, equipped with Bilstien shocks, provides an almost plush experience, effectively gliding over bumps and dips. In contrast, the Rebel HD’s firmer suspension results in a harsher ride on uneven surfaces, making it less comfortable for those seeking a smoother off-road journey.
Exterior and interior updates
The 2025 models have received visual updates, including a new front fascia with enhanced headlights and a more imposing grille. The headlights create an illusion of increased height, although the overall aesthetic remains polarizing. At the rear, streamlined taillights align with the updated 2025 Ram 1500.
Both models feature spacious cabins, with a standard 12.0-inch touchscreen and an optional upgrade to a 14.5-inch display. The larger screen incorporates digital controls that replace traditional buttons, though the utility of this change remains debatable. A column-mounted electronic gear selector has been introduced based on customer feedback, addressing previous complaints regarding the rotary shift knob.
The updated Rebel HD showcases an upgraded turbodiesel engine, enhancing its competitiveness. However, the Power Wagon excels in off-road capabilities, while the Rebel HD’s ride quality has drawn some criticism from enthusiasts.0
The updated Rebel HD showcases an upgraded turbodiesel engine, enhancing its competitiveness. However, the Power Wagon excels in off-road capabilities, while the Rebel HD’s ride quality has drawn some criticism from enthusiasts.1