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The arrival of the 2025 Ram 2500 Power Wagon and 2500 Rebel HD signifies a robust response to intensified competition in the heavy-duty off-road truck market. The introduction of the Chevy Silverado HD ZR2 and a revamped Ford Super Duty Tremor indicates that Ram is determined to maintain its longstanding dominance in this segment. Both the Power Wagon and Rebel HD exhibit design enhancements and technological advancements that enhance their appeal to off-road enthusiasts.
While the Power Wagon stands out for its unique off-road hardware, the Rebel HD has received notable upgrades, particularly regarding its enhanced turbodiesel engine. However, despite these improvements, the Rebel HD’s suspension may still present a harsh ride.
The 2025 Ram 2500 Power Wagon: A steadfast contender
A significant distinction between the Power Wagon and its competitors is the absence of a turbodiesel engine option for 2025. The Power Wagon is powered exclusively by a traditional 6.4-liter V-8 engine, which delivers 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. While this engine demonstrates reliability, it does not match the power and refinement of Ford’s advanced 7.3-liter Godzilla V-8.
Conversely, the Rebel HD continues to use the gas V-8 as its base engine but offers an appealing alternative with the available 6.7-liter Cummins inline-6 turbodiesel. Priced at $12,595, this engine produces 430 horsepower and an impressive 1,075 lb-ft of torque, surpassing Chevy’s 975 lb-ft while falling short of Ford’s 1,200 lb-ft. The 2025 model year introduces significant revisions to the Cummins engine, including a new turbocharger and an updated oil filtration system, enhancing both performance and maintenance.
Performance improvements with the updated turbodiesel
These enhancements have led to improved acceleration, with the Cummins engine achieving 0-60 mph in just 6.9 seconds, a substantial improvement from the previous model’s 8.0-second time. The updated 8-speed automatic transmission facilitates smoother gear shifts and improved towing efficiency, although it remains less complex than Ford’s 10-speed variant.
Rebel HD: Enhancements and challenges
Despite the upgrades to the Cummins engine, Doug Killian, Ram’s Heavy Duty Chief Engineer, acknowledges that customers are eagerly awaiting a turbodiesel option for the Power Wagon. However, technical challenges concerning compatibility with the Power Wagon’s front suspension have hindered this development. The existing electronic disconnecting front sway bar complicates the integration of the diesel engine.
The Rebel HD is designed to meet the demands of buyers seeking towing and hauling capabilities. It can tow up to 17,130 pounds and handle a payload of 3,320 pounds with the gas V-8. In contrast, the turbodiesel variant can boost the towing capacity to an impressive 19,890 pounds, albeit with a reduced payload of 2,450 pounds.
Comparative performance in real-world scenarios
Testing the Power Wagon and Rebel HD in the rugged terrains of Nevada’s Old Kingman Highway Recreational area highlights their differences. When navigating uneven surfaces, the Rebel HD’s lack of an electronic front locker and sway bar disconnect resulted in wheel spin and instability. In contrast, the Power Wagon maintained superior traction, showcasing its off-road capabilities.
On smoother gravel roads, the Power Wagon’s softer suspension provided a more comfortable ride, whereas the Rebel HD’s firmer setup led to a harsher experience for its driver. This distinction emphasizes the Power Wagon’s focus on off-road comfort compared to the Rebel’s emphasis on utility.
Design and interior updates
Visually, the 2025 Ram trucks feature a refreshed aesthetic, particularly with updated headlights and grille designs. Although the headlights appear taller due to a new layout, they do not represent a significant upgrade over previous models. The grilles now have a bolder design, contributing to a more aggressive road presence.
While the Power Wagon stands out for its unique off-road hardware, the Rebel HD has received notable upgrades, particularly regarding its enhanced turbodiesel engine. However, despite these improvements, the Rebel HD’s suspension may still present a harsh ride.0
While the Power Wagon stands out for its unique off-road hardware, the Rebel HD has received notable upgrades, particularly regarding its enhanced turbodiesel engine. However, despite these improvements, the Rebel HD’s suspension may still present a harsh ride.1
Ram’s enduring presence
While the Power Wagon stands out for its unique off-road hardware, the Rebel HD has received notable upgrades, particularly regarding its enhanced turbodiesel engine. However, despite these improvements, the Rebel HD’s suspension may still present a harsh ride.2