2018 Ram 3500 arrives with 930 lb-ft torque and updated features
Ram’s 2018 3500 Heavy Duty truck gets a torque boost to 930 lb-ft from its Cummins diesel, updated interior tech, and a wide range of trims and body styles.
Ram’s 2018 3500 Heavy Duty truck enters the market with a key mechanical update: the 6.7-litre Cummins turbo diesel now delivers 930 lb-ft of torque, giving the model a fresh edge in the heavy-duty pickup segment. The update, announced for the 2018 model year, positions the Ram 3500 as a direct rival to Ford’s Super Duty and GM’s HD pickups, which have also been pushing torque and towing figures higher in recent years. Pricing for the 2018 Ram 3500 starts at $34,445 and reaches $60,745 for the top trims, according to official data.
Torque increase for 2018
The main mechanical change for 2018 is the uprated Cummins 6.7-litre inline-six turbo diesel, now producing 930 lb-ft of torque. This figure is up from the previous year and aimed at buyers who need maximum towing capability. The Ram 3500’s maximum trailering capacity with a conventional hitch is 12,210 lbs, while fifth wheel and gooseneck towing capacities are even higher, reflecting the truck’s focus on heavy-duty applications.
Buyers can still opt for petrol engines, with the 5.7-litre and 6.4-litre Hemi V8s available. The 6.4-litre V8 produces 370 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive. The Cummins diesel remains the top choice for those prioritising torque and towing.
Trim levels and equipment
Ram offers the 3500 in 44 different trims for 2018, with a range that covers basic work trucks through to luxury-focused Limited models. Body styles include Crew Cab and Mega Cab, with seating for up to five. Rear-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations are available, and buyers can choose between single or dual rear wheels depending on their payload and towing needs.
- Standard six-speed automatic transmission
- Multi-link front and leaf rear suspension
- Maximum gross vehicle weight rating of 11,400 lbs
- Standard 18-inch aluminium wheels
- Available exterior colours include Brilliant Black, True Blue, Walnut Brown, Granite Crystal and more
Interior and technology
Inside, the 2018 Ram 3500 offers seating for five, with Mega Cab models providing generous rear legroom and cargo space. The model is available with modern infotainment options, including Uconnect systems, and a range of comfort and convenience features depending on trim. The cabin dimensions are competitive, with 41 inches of front headroom and 43.3 inches of rear legroom in the Mega Cab.
Towing and payload capability
The Ram 3500’s heavy-duty credentials are underlined by its towing and payload figures. With a maximum conventional towing capacity of 12,210 lbs and a gross combined weight rating of 19,900 lbs, the truck is aimed squarely at buyers needing to haul large trailers, equipment or fifth-wheel caravans. Payload ratings and axle capacities vary by configuration, but the rear axle can handle up to 7,000 lbs.
Colours and options
Exterior colours for 2018 include Brilliant Black Crystal Pearlcoat, True Blue Pearlcoat, RV Match Walnut Brown Metallic, Granite Crystal Metallic, and several others. Wheel choices, interior finishes, and optional equipment packages allow buyers to tailor the truck to their needs, whether for fleet, commercial or private use.
With its torque increase and broad range of configurations, the 2018 Ram 3500 continues to serve the heavy-duty pickup market with a focus on capability and choice.
