When you think of trucks, a clear image comes to mind. A rugged terrain dominated by a robust and capable machine in slow motion. This scenario might grace your daydreams if you’re a truck enthusiast. Most trucks invoke feelings of dominance and ultra-capability, and the 2021 Ram 3500 is chief among them. 

The heavy-duty truck segment is highly competitive, and we’re not just talking about sales. Every manufacturer seems to strive to build the strongest truck. Some automakers aim for the most horsepower, while others focus on towing. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) is no different, as its 2021 Ram 3500 set new benchmarks for the class.

Ram’s heavy-duty trucks have a lot to live up to after winning MotorTrend’s Truck of the Year award in 2020. However, the 2021 Ram 3500 might be even better than its predecessor, as it boasts class-leading numbers.

Just how powerful is Ram’s heavy-duty truck, and what else does it have to offer? Let’s take a more in-depth look at the 2021 Ram 3500.

Big-time performance from a heavy-duty truck

When it comes to heavy-duty trucks, it’s a numbers game. Ford and Ram are at the top of the charts in most categories, leaving many buyers having to choose between the two. These trucks have always been leaders in towing capacity, but the crown has often been passed back and forth.

Ford’s available Power Stroke 6.7-liter turbo-diesel V8 engine still kicks out more horsepower than its rival (475 vs. 400). However, Ram’s available Cummins 6.7-liter high-output turbo-diesel V8 re-takes the throne in torque. It now delivers a class-leading 1,075 lb-ft of torque, which is 75 lb-ft more than the 2020 version made and 25 lb-ft more than that of the Ford Super Duty.

This extra boost in torque translates to more towing capability. According to FCA’s recent press release, the Ram 3500 now boasts a segment-leading gooseneck towing rating of 37,100 pounds. Plus, the truck has a conventional max towing capacity of 23,000 pounds. While this boost in power might not shift the needle too much, it may give drivers a little extra peace of mind when bringing along their travel trailers.

What else does the 2021 Ram 3500 have to offer?

When it comes to heavy-duty trucks, less is more. You’d rather your machine be a king among men when it comes to the big stuff. While being a jack of all trades may be handy for some cars, being a master of none does not serve this segment well. That’s why FCA honed in on making the 2021 Ram 3500 a capable beast of a vehicle rather than decking it out with all the bells and whistles you won’t even need. 

Now that’s not to say Ram left its heavy-duty truck high and dry when it comes to additional amenities. New for 2021, the Ram 3500 has an available digital rearview mirror that allows you to keep a better eye on everything going on behind you.

Drivers can also enjoy an enormous available 12-inch touchscreen display. This system utilizes pinch-and-zoom and split-screen capability, and it is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2021 Ram 3500 also has useful little touches that’ll make your workday easier. For instance, you can outfit yours with an available 400W, 115-volt, three-prong covered external power source.

The final verdict

Let’s just come right out and say it. This vehicle is incredibly powerful. So much so that it’s raising eyebrows and drawing the attention of truck enthusiasts. While the 2021 Ram 3500 doesn’t overwhelm you with numerous technologies and over the top features, that’s not what Ram built this truck for. The 2021 Ram 3500 is designed as a heavy hitter, and it certainly gets that job done well.