2018 Ram 2500 Specs: A Deep Dive into Towing, Payload & Performance
In the highly competitive world of heavy-duty trucks, the 2018 Ram 2500 carved out a unique space for itself, blending brute force with unexpected refinement. It stands as a key model in the fourth generation of Ram trucks, a testament to the brand’s commitment to capability without compromise, and a top contender against rivals like the Ford F-250 and Chevy Silverado 2500HD. For many, this model year represents the pinnacle of a proven platform before a major redesign.
What truly set the 2018 model apart was its class-exclusive multi-link coil spring rear suspension, a feature that delivered a smoother, more composed ride than its leaf-sprung competitors without sacrificing an ounce of hauling prowess. This engineering choice made it a favorite among those who use their truck for both demanding work and daily driving. Combined with the legendary power of the available 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel and the cavernous Mega Cab option, the 2018 Ram 2500 offered a compelling package that was as comfortable on a long family road trip as it was capable on a demanding construction site.
Whether you’re a prospective buyer trying to match a specific trailer to the right configuration, a current owner wanting a definitive guide to your truck’s limits, or an enthusiast deep-diving into its engineering, you’ve come to the right place. This guide breaks down the critical 2018 Ram 2500 specs, providing clear, data-driven charts and analysis on its powerful engine lineup, maximum towing and payload capacities, and the distinct features of each trim level.
At a Glance: 2018 Ram 2500 Key Specifications
For those who need the numbers upfront, here’s a quick overview of what the 2018 Ram 2500 has to offer.
| Specification | Range / Detail |
| Engine Options | 5.7L V8, 6.4L V8, 6.7L I6 Cummins Turbo Diesel |
| Horsepower | 383 hp to 410 hp |
| Torque | 400 lb-ft to 930 lb-ft |
| Max Towing Capacity | Up to 17,980 lbs |
| Max Payload Capacity | Up to 3,990 lbs |
| Cab Configurations | Regular Cab, Crew Cab, Mega Cab |
| Bed Lengths | 6’4″ or 8′ |
2018 Ram 2500 Engine Options: Gas vs. Diesel Power
The heart of any heavy-duty truck is its engine, and the 2018 Ram 2500 offered three formidable choices. Each engine provided a different balance of power, torque, and performance to suit various needs.
The Standard 5.7L HEMI V8
The standard engine on most trims was the 5.7L HEMI V8. It’s a proven workhorse, offering a solid blend of power and capability for daily driving and moderate towing tasks.
The Powerful 6.4L HEMI V8
For those needing more gas-powered muscle, the 6.4L HEMI V8 was the answer. It delivered best-in-class gas horsepower, making it an excellent choice for heavy payloads. This engine is also the standard powerhouse in the off-road-focused Power Wagon model.
The Legendary 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel
The main event for serious towing is the legendary 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel. Available in two states of tune depending on the transmission pairing, this inline-six engine is celebrated for its incredible torque output and long-term durability. According to Cummins, this engine has been a staple in Ram trucks for decades, continuously evolving for greater power.
Engine Specs Comparison
Here’s how the three engines stack up against each other. The high-output Cummins, paired with the Aisin automatic transmission, unlocks the truck’s maximum towing potential.
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Standard Transmission |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 383 hp @ 5,600 rpm | 400 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 6-speed automatic |
| 6.4L HEMI V8 | 410 hp @ 5,600 rpm | 429 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 6-speed automatic |
| 6.7L Cummins I6 (Auto) | 370 hp @ 2,800 rpm | 800 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm | 6-speed automatic |
| 6.7L Cummins I6 (Manual) | 350 hp @ 2,800 rpm | 660 lb-ft @ 1,400 rpm | 6-speed manual |
Towing & Payload Capacity: The Heart of a Heavy-Duty Truck
For any heavy-duty truck, the specifications for towing and payload are not just numbers on a sheet; they are the very essence of its purpose. These figures define the truck’s limits and are the most critical consideration for anyone who needs to haul heavy equipment, trailers, or cargo. The 2018 Ram 2500 was engineered to post impressive numbers, but these capacities are not one-size-fits-all. They are intricately linked to your specific configuration, including the engine, axle ratio, cab style, bed length, and drivetrain (4×2 or 4×4). To find the exact figures for a specific truck, you can always check the manufacturer’s label on the driver’s side door jamb or decode your truck’s specifics with a Ram VIN decoder.
Understanding the 2018 Ram 2500 Towing Capacity
Ram adheres to the SAE J2807 towing standard, which ensures that the advertised tow ratings are based on a consistent and rigorous set of real-world tests. This means you can trust the numbers to reflect the truck’s actual performance in acceleration, braking, and handling while pulling a load. The 2018 Ram 2500’s maximum towing capacity of 17,980 pounds is achieved with the 6.7L Cummins engine, a 4×2 drivetrain, and a specific axle ratio, configured for fifth-wheel/gooseneck towing.
Detailed Towing Capacity Chart (lbs)
This table provides a clearer picture of how towing capacity varies. Note that fifth-wheel/gooseneck setups typically allow for higher ratings than conventional “bumper pull” hitches.
| Engine | Drivetrain | Max Conventional Towing (lbs) | Max 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Towing (lbs) |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 4×2 / 4×4 | ~11,500 – 13,860 | ~11,400 – 13,540 |
| 6.4L HEMI V8 | 4×2 / 4×4 | ~12,600 – 16,320 | ~12,500 – 15,990 |
| 6.7L Cummins I6 | 4×2 / 4×4 | ~17,100 – 17,980 | ~16,400 – 17,980 |
A Closer Look at Payload Ratings
Payload capacity is arguably just as crucial as towing, and it’s a figure that is often misunderstood. Your truck’s payload isn’t just the weight of the cargo in the bed. It includes everything the truck is carrying: the driver, all passengers, any gear inside the cab, the cargo in the bed, and, critically, the tongue weight of a conventional trailer or the kingpin weight of a fifth-wheel trailer.
Exceeding your payload capacity can dangerously overload the truck’s suspension, brakes, and tires. Interestingly, the highest payload ratings for the 2018 Ram 2500 are often found on models equipped with the 6.4L HEMI V8. This is because the gas engine is significantly lighter than the Cummins diesel, leaving more of the truck’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) available for payload. Understanding your truck’s total curb weight is a key part of calculating how much payload you have left, which is related to how much a Ram 2500 weighs empty.
- Maximum Payload Capacity: Up to 3,990 lbs (Regular Cab, 8′ bed, 4×2, with 6.4L V8)
- Typical Payload for Crew Cab 4×4 Models: Ranges from approximately 2,200 lbs (Cummins) to 3,200 lbs (6.4L HEMI).
Trim Levels Explained: From Tradesman to Limited
The 2018 Ram 2500 was available in a wide array of trims, catering to everyone from fleet managers to luxury truck buyers.
- Tradesman: The base work truck with vinyl seats and steel wheels, built for pure utility.
- SLT: Adds chrome bumpers, cloth upholstery, and power accessories.
- Big Horn / Lone Star: A popular mid-range option with upgraded cloth seats, a larger infotainment screen, and premium exterior trim.
- Laramie: Introduces luxury with leather upholstery, heated/ventilated front seats, and an upgraded sound system.
- Laramie Longhorn: A Western-themed luxury trim with premium leather, real wood trim, and distinctive styling.
- Limited: The top-of-the-line model featuring premium materials, a unique grille design, and nearly every available feature as standard.
- Power Wagon: A uniquely-equipped, off-road-focused model available only as a Crew Cab 4×4 with the 6.4L V8. It features locking differentials, a disconnecting front sway bar, and a 12,000-lb winch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the fuel economy of the 2018 Ram 2500?
The EPA does not provide official fuel economy ratings for vehicles over 8,500 lbs GVWR. However, owners typically report fuel efficiency in the low-to-mid teens for mixed driving, with diesel models often achieving slightly better mileage, especially when unloaded on the highway.
What are the cab and bed options for the 2018 Ram 2500?
The 2018 Ram 2500 offered three cab styles: Regular Cab (2-door), Crew Cab (4-door), and the class-exclusive Mega Cab (4-door with extra rear-seat space). These could be paired with two bed lengths: a 6-foot-4-inch short bed or an 8-foot long bed.
What were the common problems or recalls for the 2018 Ram 2500?
According to the NHTSA, some 2018 models were subject to recalls, including issues related to tailgate latches and steering linkage. It’s always wise to check a specific vehicle’s VIN for any outstanding recalls.
How much can a 2018 Ram 2500 with a Cummins engine tow?
A properly equipped 2018 Ram 2500 with the 6.7L Cummins engine can tow up to 17,980 pounds. This maximum rating is typically achieved with a 4×2 Regular Cab configuration.
