Upon Ford's revealing of the 2013 F-150 King Ranch, Ram has countered the Blue Oval's latest luxury truck with a pair of new releases. Ram's 2013 Heavy Duty and Chassis Cab models both remain basically the same in terms of aesthetics, though Chrysler is claiming that the new editions are anything but underneath. In the vaguest terms possible, the Auburn Hills-based automaker has claimed that both models will boast best-in-class payload, torque, towing and Gross Combined Weight Rating without offering any numbers or statistics to back them up.
Chrysler of Mexico and Ram Truck CEO Fred Diaz did say, however that "The 2013 Ram Heavy Duty allows you to push and pull more than any competitor, and the truck looks great doing it with new exterior design cues and an all-new interior featuring our latest technology." The interior he is talking about is the brand's 8.4-inch Uconnect display and SatNav system with app and wifi capability along with a new VSIM up-fitter interface module which can accommodate up to 72 inputs for aftermarket gear. Upgrades for the interior also include everything from a new instrument panel to climate control and steering wheels.
Tweaks on the 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty Ram's relatively unchanged exterior include LED corner lamps and taillights for the SLT trims, a taller tail-gate, redesigned badges and taller grille and hood. This also marks the first time that Ram will offer the 5.7-liter V8 on the 3500 series. Output for the V8 is said to be 383 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. A Cummins 6.7-liter turbodiesel offering will supply 370hp and 850 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic Aisin transmission while a manual transmission will remain optional for the diesel models.
New cooling systems have also been added as well for help in towing heavy loads. The Ram 3500 also comes straight from the factory with a trailer tow connector in the truck bed if you so choose the optional fifth wheel or gooseneck tow prep trims. Revised structural support has been incorporated into the body to support an increased payload and add durability to the big pickup. Ram has also added new reinforced tie-down points with enhanced strength for towing heavier loads. Ram will be offering the HD lineup with a choice between the two-door regular cab, four-door Crew Cab and larger four-door Mega Cab configurations along with two bed sizes: 6ft 4inch and 8ft lengths.
The Ram Chassis Cab features more than 45 active and passive safety and security features along with new technology like all-speed traction control, trailer-sway control, anti-lock brakes and Hill-start Assist. Keyless entry and several other new techs will also be offered for the first time on the heavy hauler. Ram's lineup of 2013 trucks are expected in dealerships by February or early March of next year.
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