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2017 Ram 2500 Review
The 2017 RAM 2500 is ready for work with an enticing combination of power and features that are set up for owners who need a heavy duty truck for heavy duty tasks.
RAM added a new Power Wagon model and the RAM 2500 4×4 Off Road package this year, but we were able to test out the 2017 Ram 2500 Laramie Crew Cab 4×4 with the 6.4L V8 Hemi that is less about off-roading and more about getting work done.
The 2017 RAM 2500 offers bold looks with the Sport appearance package.
With a spacious crew cab and nicely appointed interior, the RAM 2500 impresses and delivers a more comfortable ride when empty than the 2017 Chevy Silverado with a Duramax Diesel.
2017 Ram 2500 Review Summary
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The 2017 Ram 2500 starts at $32,145 and is available with an almost endless list of configurable options when you account for cabin size, bed size, gas or diesel as well as the numerous appearance and feature packages. The 2017 RAM 2500 Laramie Crew Cab 4×4 review vehicle is equipped with the Laramie package, Sport appearance Group and other options that raise the base price of $50,745 up to $58,465.
This model came equipped with the 6.4L Hemi, but there is 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel with 800 lb.ft of torque available for an extra $8,700.
2017 Ram 2500 Performance
The 2017 RAM 2500 with the 6.4L Hemi is a capable work truck that is easy to drive and even to maneuver in tight spaces with the Crew Cab and standard bed. Even with the 20-inch wheels the Ram 2500 offers a smoother ride when empty than the Chevy Silverado 2500HD.
What you need to know about the RAM 2500 driving and performance.
With the Laramie package, you get the 6.4L V8 Hemi included with the other Laramie upgrades. This engine proved capable, with 410 horsepower and 429 lb.-ft of torque. This bests the Silverado 2500HD gas horsepower and torque. If you need more power the Deisel delivers up to 800 lb.-ft of torque. This is less than the 2017 Chevy Silverado with the Duramax Diesel.
Depending on the options you select, you can configure the Ram 2500 to tow up to 16,320 pounds with gas and a max gas payload of up to 3,990 pounds.
The RAM 2500 with the 6.4L Hemi delivered 13.4MPG of combined city and highway driving.
2017 Ram 2500 Review Design & Features
We like the bold look of the 2017 RAM 2500.
The 2017 Ram 2500 is available in a number of trims and packages that change the look of this truck. We are particularly fond of the Sport Appearance group that includes the following upgrades. This is a $1,795 upgrade that dramatically upgrades the look of the RAM 2500 with:
- 20-Inch x 8.0-Inch Black Painted Aluminum Wheels
- “4X4” Flat Black Badge
- Bi-Function Projector Black Headlamps
- Black Painted Exterior Mirrors
- Black “Ram Head” Tailgate Badge
- Black Wheel Center Hub
- Body-Color Door Handles
- Body-Color Grille with Black Wave Insert
- Delete Wheel Spats
- LT285/60R20E OWL On/Off-Road Tires
- Monotone Paint
- Painted Front Bumper
- Painted Rear Bumper
- Black Power Fold-Away Mirrors
- Black Premium Tail Lamps
- Flat Black “Ram 2500” Badge
- Flat Black Engine Badging
With this package, you’ll get a much bolder look that really sets the RAM 2500 apart from the rest of the pack.
We like the bed-lighting that makes it easy to see in the bed and around the truck while you are working in or near the truck. There are lights above the bed and in the corners, casting a lot of light.
The bed lighting is a very handy feature for getting work done.
Opt for the RamBox cargo management system to add more lockable storage to the bed of the Ram 2500. You can store gear in these or use them as a cooler. There are multiple tie-down points in the bed to secure cargo. You’ll also find under seat storage in the back of the Crew Cab.
Inside, you will find a well-appointed interior with leather seats up front and in the back. The Laramie includes heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats.
With multiple trim packages available, you can find one that matches your needs, like the Laramie shown here.
The seats are comfortable with a good amount of control for positioning and lumbar support up front. Physical buttons are available for all the important controls.
There is a lot of storage in the center console, with a two-part center opening to optimize how you use it. There are also two spots to rest phones so you can see the screen, as well as plenty of small storage slots in the front. Perfect for keeping your work phone, personal phone and your other gear at hand.
2017 Ram 2500 Tech and Features
The 2017 Ram 2500 comes with a Uconnect 8.4-inch infotainment system that includes support for Bluetooth connectivity. The car also includes an internet connection that you can use as a personal hotspot and that can connect built-in apps like Yelp and Aha to the internet.
With the Uconnect app on your phone, you can start your truck, unlock the doors and send a destination to your truck. The WiFi Hotspot is a 3G connection which is slower than the 4G LTE connection Chevy offers. Ram does not support Android Auto or Apple Carplay at this time.
The Uconnect system is capable, but lacks Android Auto and CarPlay.
The front and rear parking sensors make getting in and out of tight parking spots a breeze. The Ram 2500 includes cruise control, but our truck did not include support for dynamic cruise control that will adjust your speed based on the traffic in front of you.
Other convenience and safety features include automatic bright headlights and rain sensing wipers.
