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As the heavy-duty off-road truck market intensifies, Ram reaffirms its dedication to its legacy. Competing models such as the Chevy Silverado HD ZR2 and the refreshed Ford Super Duty Tremor are gaining attention. In response, the 2025 Ram 2500 Power Wagon and Rebel HD have introduced significant updates, incorporating fresh design elements and advanced technology. Notably, the Rebel HD has received substantial enhancements to its optional turbodiesel engine.
Testing the Power Wagon highlights its continued leadership in off-road capabilities. The Rebel HD, however, has improved its competitiveness, particularly with the upgraded turbodiesel engine. Nevertheless, the ride quality of the Rebel HD remains a concern, as it is noticeably harsher compared to the Power Wagon.
Distinctive features of the 2025 Ram 2500 Power Wagon
Unlike its Chevy and Ford counterparts, the 2025 Ram 2500 Power Wagon currently lacks a turbodiesel engine option. It retains the established 6.4-liter V-8 engine, delivering 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. While capable, this engine falls short of the modern advancements and greater power offered by Ford’s 7.3-liter Godzilla V-8.
The Rebel HD comes standard with the gas V-8 but offers the attractive $12,595 6.7-liter Cummins inline-6 turbodiesel engine as an upgrade. This engine generates 1,075 lb-ft of torque, surpassing Chevy’s 975 lb-ft but lagging behind Ford’s 1,200 lb-ft. For 2025, the Cummins engine has undergone significant revisions, including a new turbocharger, an updated intake manifold, and a more efficient 8-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous 6-speed version.
Performance improvements in the updated turbodiesel
These enhancements result in a quicker 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds, a notable reduction from the previous model’s 8.0 seconds. Overall performance has improved, featuring faster cold starts and easier maintenance. The 8-speed automatic transmission provides a smooth and responsive driving experience, particularly during towing, outperforming Ford’s 10-speed system.
Challenges and opportunities for the Rebel HD
Ram acknowledges the demand for a turbodiesel option in the Power Wagon, as indicated by Doug Killian, the Heavy Duty Chief Engineer. Despite the substantial updates to the Cummins engine, engineering challenges related to the oil pan fitting with the Power Wagon’s front suspension have thus far hindered the introduction of a turbodiesel variant. The electronic disconnecting front sway bar complicates the situation further.
While competitors like Ford and Chevy have successfully integrated turbodiesel engines into their off-road trucks, Ram recognizes the growing interest from Power Wagon enthusiasts and the need to remain competitive. Although there are no confirmed plans to add a turbodiesel option to the Power Wagon at this time, future development remains a possibility.
Comparing ride quality and towing capabilities
Despite their differences in handling and performance, both the Power Wagon and Rebel HD offer distinct experiences. The Power Wagon provides a notably smooth ride, thanks to its soft Bilstein off-road shocks, designed for traversing rough terrain. In contrast, the Rebel HD’s firmer suspension prioritizes towing and hauling capabilities over comfort. The Rebel can tow up to 17,130 pounds and manage a payload of 3,320 pounds with the gas V-8, while opting for the turbodiesel increases towing capacity to 19,890 pounds, albeit with a reduced payload limit of 2,450 pounds.
The Power Wagon, however, is less focused on towing, with a maximum capacity of 10,530 pounds and a payload of 1,570 pounds, facilitating a more comfortable ride. This distinction was evident during off-road testing in Nevada’s Old Kingman Highway Recreational area, where the Power Wagon demonstrated superior traction and stability compared to the Rebel HD during challenging climbs.
Refined aesthetics and interior features
The exterior design of the Ram HD lineup has seen revisions, featuring updated headlights and grilles that enhance its imposing presence. The redesigned headlights now appear taller and more aggressive, while the grilles incorporate both horizontal and vertical bars for a more dynamic appearance. The rear has also been streamlined, featuring simpler taillights that match the updated 2025 Ram 1500.
Testing the Power Wagon highlights its continued leadership in off-road capabilities. The Rebel HD, however, has improved its competitiveness, particularly with the upgraded turbodiesel engine. Nevertheless, the ride quality of the Rebel HD remains a concern, as it is noticeably harsher compared to the Power Wagon.0
Testing the Power Wagon highlights its continued leadership in off-road capabilities. The Rebel HD, however, has improved its competitiveness, particularly with the upgraded turbodiesel engine. Nevertheless, the ride quality of the Rebel HD remains a concern, as it is noticeably harsher compared to the Power Wagon.1
Pricing and market positioning
Testing the Power Wagon highlights its continued leadership in off-road capabilities. The Rebel HD, however, has improved its competitiveness, particularly with the upgraded turbodiesel engine. Nevertheless, the ride quality of the Rebel HD remains a concern, as it is noticeably harsher compared to the Power Wagon.2
Testing the Power Wagon highlights its continued leadership in off-road capabilities. The Rebel HD, however, has improved its competitiveness, particularly with the upgraded turbodiesel engine. Nevertheless, the ride quality of the Rebel HD remains a concern, as it is noticeably harsher compared to the Power Wagon.3