Automotive
Ram is giving its 2027 Heavy Duty lineup a practical round of updates, with the biggest news centered on payload capability for HEMI-powered 2500 models. The new Payload Upgrade Package lets certain Ram 2500 trucks with the 6.4-liter HEMI V8 carry up to 4,580 pounds, an increase of as much as 650 pounds compared with standard versions. For buyers who want gas-engine simplicity but need more real-world hauling ability, this could be one of the most meaningful updates in the 2027 Ram HD lineup.
The new package is available on Tradesman, Big Horn, Lone Star, Laramie, Limited, and Limited Longhorn trims for $835. It replaces the standard Ram 2500 five-link coil-spring rear suspension setup with a 3500-style frame and rear leaf springs, along with a limited-slip rear differential configured for the new suspension. With the package, towing capacity rises to 17,740 pounds, making the HEMI-powered 2500 more useful for buyers hauling heavy trailers, equipment, or commercial payloads where bed capacity matters just as much as tow rating.
Ram is also improving capability for certain 3500 models with the 6.4-liter HEMI. Trucks configured with the 8-foot bed and Regular Cab or the 6-foot-4 bed and Crew Cab gain a 400-pound increase in payload and towing capacity, bringing towing to 11,440 pounds. While the Cummins diesel remains the obvious choice for maximum towing numbers, these gas-powered improvements show Ram is still paying attention to buyers who prefer lower upfront cost, simpler maintenance, and gasoline power in their heavy-duty trucks.
Several options are also becoming easier to order for 2027. The limited-slip rear differential is now available as a standalone option on 2500 Tradesman models instead of being tied to the Level 1 Equipment Group. Rebel and Power Wagon trims with the 6.4-liter HEMI can now add the Warn winch as a standalone option, and those same off-road-oriented models can also be equipped with a sport performance hood outside larger equipment packages. Big Horn trims get that hood when paired with the Night Edition or Sport Appearance packages, while Laramie models gain availability of RamBox storage and body-color fender flares.
Beyond these changes, the 2027 Ram Heavy Duty lineup largely carries over from 2026. The lineup continues to include Tradesman, Black Express, Warlock, Big Horn, Laramie, Rebel, Power Wagon, Limited, and Limited Longhorn trims, with configurations ranging from Regular Cab with an 8-foot bed to Mega Cab with a 6-foot-4 bed. Ram 2500 models still offer available automatic-leveling rear air suspension, while 3500 models retain available supplemental rear air suspension to assist the leaf springs.
Technology and interior equipment remain familiar, with work-truck trims starting with an analog gauge cluster, a 5-inch Uconnect screen, and a basic audio system, while higher trims offer a 14.5-inch Uconnect display, a 10.25-inch passenger screen, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Pricing has not been announced yet, but Ram says the 2027 Heavy Duty lineup should reach dealers in August. The updates may not reinvent the truck, but they do make the Ram HD more configurable and more capable in the areas heavy-duty buyers care about most.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
