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In the competitive landscape of heavy-duty off-road trucks, Ram has established itself as a key player. However, recent developments have intensified competition. The Chevy Silverado HD ZR2 and the redesigned Ford Super Duty Tremor are prime examples of this shift. In response, Ram is introducing the 2025 Ram 2500 Power Wagon and 2500 Rebel HD. These models feature fresh designs and significant technological improvements, particularly the Rebel HD’s turbodiesel engine.
Having driven the Power Wagon, it’s clear it excels in off-road capabilities within its class. Yet, the enhancements in the Rebel HD make it a strong contender, especially with its new turbodiesel engine option. However, the Rebel HD’s suspension may feel rigid for some drivers.
Power Wagon’s traditional strengths
The 2025 Ram 2500 Power Wagon continues its legacy as a gasoline-only model, lacking the turbodiesel option available in competitors. It is equipped with a robust yet somewhat outdated 6.4-liter V8 that generates 405 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque. While this engine performs adequately, it does not match the power and smoothness of Ford’s 7.3-liter Godzilla V8.
Rebel HD’s new engine options
Conversely, the Rebel HD offers the gas V8 as standard but features an optional upgrade: the 6.7-liter Cummins inline-six turbodiesel. Priced at $12,595, this engine produces 1,075 lb-ft of torque, appealing to those needing heavy lifting capability. Although it delivers 430 hp, it surpasses the Chevy’s 975 lb-ft while lagging behind the Ford’s 1,200 lb-ft. The 2025 model includes substantial revisions to the Cummins engine, such as a new turbocharger and improved oil filtration systems.
These upgrades lead to faster acceleration, with Ram claiming a 0-60 mph time of just 6.9 seconds, down from the previous model’s 8.0 seconds. Additionally, the updated 8-speed automatic transmission ensures quick, seamless shifts, optimizing performance during towing.
Suspension dynamics and off-road performance
The suspension systems of the two models differ notably. The Power Wagon is engineered for a comfortable ride, featuring soft Bilstein shocks that provide a smooth experience both on and off-road. In contrast, the Rebel HD’s firmer suspension prioritizes towing and payload capacities, resulting in a harsher ride. The Rebel can tow up to 17,130 pounds and haul 3,320 pounds with the gas V8; these figures increase to 19,890 pounds for towing while the payload drops to 2,450 pounds with the turbodiesel.
Real-world off-road tests
During an off-road excursion in Nevada’s Old Kingman Highway Recreational area, the strengths of each truck became evident. The Power Wagon’s electronic front locker and disconnecting sway bar allowed it to maintain traction effectively on uneven terrain, while the Rebel faced challenges with wheel spin. Additionally, the Power Wagon’s softer suspension provided a smoother ride on bumpy gravel roads, contrasting sharply with the Rebel’s jarring experience.
Design and interior updates
Visually, the 2025 Ram lineup showcases a transformation. The front end features taller grilles and a redesigned headlight configuration that enhances its presence on the road. The rear sports a sleeker design with simpler taillights, departing from previous iterations.
Inside, the Ram HD models maintain a luxurious experience with minimal changes to their user-friendly layout. A notable addition is the optional 14.5-inch touchscreen for both the Power Wagon and Rebel HD, digitizing many functions previously managed by physical buttons. While some may view this shift as unnecessary, the larger display enhances the overall aesthetic. The gear selector has also transitioned to a column-mounted design across all models, responding to customer feedback.
The pricing for these updated models reflects their enhancements. The Power Wagon starts at approximately $74,235, while the Rebel HD begins at $70,740, both experiencing price increases compared to prior iterations. The competition remains fierce, particularly with Ford’s Super Duty Tremor offering a modern gas engine at a lower price point.
Having driven the Power Wagon, it’s clear it excels in off-road capabilities within its class. Yet, the enhancements in the Rebel HD make it a strong contender, especially with its new turbodiesel engine option. However, the Rebel HD’s suspension may feel rigid for some drivers.0