Back in 2003, the pickup truck scene in America was as competitive as ever. Dodge threw down the gauntlet with its third-gen Ram 1500, introducing the world to the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine. Thanks to a killer ad campaign, “Hemi” wasn’t just an engine; it became an icon, a part of everyday language. This powerhouse of an engine continued to roar under the hoods of Rams for 11 years, spanning three generations of the truck, until the 2024 model year marked its end of an era.
As we look ahead to 2025, Ram is gearing up for a major shift. The legendary Hemi V-8 is passing the torch to a pair of 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged I-6 engines. And that’s not all; there’s also the buzz about the all-new battery electric Ram REV and the range-extended Ramcharger, hinting at a future where Ram embraces electrification. While the 2025 Ram 1500, with its new engines, represents more of an evolution, keeping the spirit of the current trucks alive, it’s clear that the real revolution is just around the corner with these electrified models.
It’s a fascinating time for the Ram brand and its fans. The transition from the Hemi V-8 to more modern powertrains and the introduction of electric options show Ram’s commitment to innovation and keeping pace with the changing automotive landscape. Yet, even as we venture into this new era, the essence of what has made Ram trucks beloved by many—their strength, reliability, and character—remains at the core of what’s to come.
In 2025, the Ram 1500 isn’t just getting a fresh set of engines; it’s also sporting a sleek exterior refresh. Think bigger grilles, revamped bumpers, and lighting that’s gotten a modern overhaul—yep, we’re talking LEDs all around, making those old incandescent bulbs a thing of the past. And there’s a new top dog in town, the Tungsten trim, which is going all-in with a seamlessly integrated front fascia, ditching the separate steel bumper for a cleaner look.
Configuration-wise, you’ve still got options. Whether you’re more of a Quad or crew-cab person, prefer a bed that’s 6-foot, 4-inches or 5-foot, 7-inches, or need that two- or four-wheel drive, Ram’s got you covered. Though, if you’re eyeing the Quad cab, just a heads up, it’s sticking with the Tradesman and Big Horn trims.
For those who geek out over the details, the axle ratios are staying put with your choice of 3.21, 3.55, and 3.92, along with a selection of open, limited-slip, and electronic locking differentials. And yes, Ram is keeping that ride as smooth as ever with the double control-arm front and five-link solid axle rear suspension—because why mess with a good thing?
Don’t worry; the fan favorites aren’t going anywhere. The multifunction tailgate and those nifty RamBox bedside storage cubbies are still part of the package. Plus, there’s a bit of new tech with a power lift and lower tailgate function that’s been thrown into the mix. It’s like Ram is saying, “We know you love what we’ve got, but here’s a little something extra.”
2025 Ram 1500 Hurricane Interior
2025 Ram 1500 Hurricane Engine
The 2025 Ram 1500 is stirring things up with a major shift under the hood. Out goes the venerable Hemi V-8, and in comes a duo of 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engines, known affectionately as the “SST” (Straight-Six Turbo). This move might raise some eyebrows, but Ram is promising more power with fewer cylinders, and the numbers are here to back it up.
We’re looking at two flavors of this engine: one churning out a solid 420 hp and 469 lb-ft of torque, and the other, a high-octane version, pushing things further to 540 hp and 521 lb-ft. To put that into perspective, the outgoing 5.7-liter Hemi could muster 395 hp and 410 lb-ft—respectable figures, but the new kids are clearly in another league.
These SST engines aren’t just about raw power; they’re marvels of engineering. Originating from the Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer as part of the Hurricane engine family, they’re built tough with a closed deck aluminum block, cross-bolted main bearing caps, and a forged steel crankshaft. Add to that the twin-scroll turbochargers integrated right into the cylinder head for faster spool-up, and you’ve got a recipe for performance and efficiency.
Diving a bit deeper, the standard and high-output versions have their unique twists. The high-output model, for instance, boosts pressure up to 28 psi (from 22 psi in the standard model) and features forged aluminum pistons over the standard’s cast aluminum. Plus, it demands 91-octane fuel to unleash its full potential, whereas the standard engine is a bit less picky.
For those who find comfort in the familiar, the reliable 3.6-liter Pentastar eTorque V-6 remains the base engine for the Tradesman and Big Horn trims. However, if you’re feeling adventurous or just want more grunt, the standard-output SST is ready to step up in the Rebel and Laramie trims, with the high-output SST taking center stage in the Limited Longhorn, Limited, and Tungsten models.
Rebel Returns, RHO Coming
Ram’s evolution into the future doesn’t mean it’s leaving its rugged, off-road heritage in the dust. The 2025 Ram Rebel is here to assure us of that. It’s sticking to what’s made it a favorite among off-road enthusiasts, with a few enhancements to sweeten the deal. Picture this: you’re gearing up for an adventure with 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac tires ready to roll, a 1-inch lift giving you that extra clearance, and Bilstein monotube dampers smoothing out the bumps along the way. Plus, there’s that handy rear electronic locking differential for when the going gets tough.
But wait, there’s more. Fancy a bit more comfort and tech on your treks? The Rebel’s got options. We’re talking four-corner air suspension for a ride that adapts to your needs, a massive 14.5-inch Uconnect touchscreen for all your infotainment desires, a head-up display to keep important info in your line of sight, and even trailer auto-hitch assist to take the fuss out of hooking up your gear.
And it’s not just about what’s under the hood or the tech inside. The Rebel’s getting a facelift too—a new, larger grille that’s bidding adieu to any facial hair comparisons, along with a revised high-clearance steel bumper and fresh headlamps to light up your path.
Hitting the trails? The 2025 Rebel doesn’t disappoint. It handles the rough and tumble with the grace we’ve come to expect, but with a twist. The new SST engine delivers torque like a pro, letting you tackle obstacles with a level of control that’s a notch above the rest. Sure, some might wish for slightly bigger tires, but the existing setup proves its mettle against the elements, no sweat.
The only catch? The high-output SST isn’t in the cards for the Rebel, at least not yet. But don’t let that dampen your spirits. Ram’s hinting at something big with the RHO model set to roll out later this year—a beast with a nod to the TRX’s legacy, equipped with that punchy high-output 3.0-liter and a suspension that’s ready for just about anything. The future of Ram’s off-road prowess is looking bright, and frankly, we can’t wait to see where it goes.
2025 Ram 1500 Hurricane Price
Navigating the updates and enhancements to the 2025 Ram 1500 lineup, it’s no surprise that many of us were bracing for a noticeable uptick in pricing across the board. Yet, what’s interesting is how Ram has approached pricing with a mix of consistency and adjustments, particularly given the current climate of escalating new truck costs.
For starters, those eyeing the more straightforward options like the Tradesman and Big Horn trims will find the financial landscape relatively stable. The Tradesman sees a modest increase to $42,270, up from $40,565, which isn’t too steep considering the overall trend in the automotive industry. Meanwhile, the Big Horn trim, a favorite among many for its balance of features and value, actually sees a slight decrease in its price tag, now sitting at $46,825, down by $105. It’s a small but welcome nod to affordability in a segment that’s becoming increasingly pricey.
However, as we venture further up the trim ladder, the picture changes. The introduction of the new SST engines as standard fare in the upper echelons of the lineup brings with it a notable bump in pricing. The Rebel, now beginning at $66,190, sees a $4,600 increase, signaling a significant jump for those looking for a more rugged and performance-oriented option. Similarly, the Laramie trim gets a $5,510 hike, starting at $62,025, while the luxurious Limited trim escalates by $9,100 to $77,150. The Limited Longhorn takes the crown for the most substantial increase, skyrocketing by $13,460 to match the Limited at $77,150.
Then there’s the debut of the Tungsten model, which sits at the pinnacle of the lineup with a starting price of $89,150. It’s positioned as the ultimate Ram 1500, fully loaded with every conceivable feature and amenity, but its premium price reflects its top-tier status.
In essence, while Ram maintains a semblance of accessibility at the entry level, the clear trend is towards a premium for innovation, performance, and luxury as you ascend the model range. This pricing strategy reflects the balancing act of offering value while also embracing the cutting-edge developments that set the 2025 Ram 1500 apart in a competitive market.
