There’s no denying that the 2021 Ram 1500 has a lot to offer. It’s a new full-size pickup and, according to U.S. News & World Report, is the best new truck of 2021. While landing such a title is undoubtedly nice, chances are you’re also concerned with how much this new truck can tow. Read more to find out which 2021 Ram 1500 model is the best for towing and hauling.

The Ram 1500’s engine options include plenty of choices

Now, determining how much the 2021 Ram 1500 can tow isn’t exactly straightforward. That’s because when it comes to engine options, the Ram 1500 offers several of them. While this year’s model does come standard with a 305-hp 3.6-liter V6 engine, that’s not the only engine option the Ram 1500 offers.

If the Ram 1500’s base engine doesn’t offer quite enough power for you, consider opting for its available 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine instead. Available in two configurations, this HEMI V8 engine churns out a full 395-hp and 410 pound-feet of torque. 

Consider the Ram 1500’s 6.2-liter Supercharged HEMI V8 engine that can charge from 0–60 mph in a short 4.5 seconds for an even faster truck. And if it’s a new diesel truck that you’re after? The Ram 1500 is also available with a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine that delivers a best-in-class 480 pound-feet of torque rating.

The best 2021 Ram 1500 model for towing and hauling

As for which Ram 1500 model is the best for towing and hauling? According to U.S. News & World Report, for the most towing power, you’re going to want a Ram 1500 with the quad cab, rear-wheel drive, and the truck’s available 5.7-liter HEMI V8. Be sure, though, that it’s the Ram 1500’s V8 engine with Ram’s class-exclusive eTorque Mild Hybrid Technology System. With this setup, the Ram 1500 will have you towing a maximum of 12,750-pounds.

Now, here’s the thing, the Ram’s available V8 engine isn’t the only engine option that offers a serious amount of towing power. Opt for the V8 without eTorque, and this new full-size truck can still tow up to 11,610-pounds. Meanwhile, the Ram 1500’s diesel engine can tow 12,560-pounds, and its base engine can manage up to 7,730-pounds.

Is the 2021 Ram 1500 the best truck for towing?

While the 2021 Ram 1500 does offer a full lineup of engines that are more than capable of towing and hauling a serious amount of weight, it may not be the best truck for satisfying your towing and hauling needs. Because, as it turns out, there are a couple of stronger alternatives to the 2021 Ram 1500.

Take, for example, the 2021 Ford F-150. Unlike the new 1500, the Ford F-150 boasts a class-leading max tow rating of 14,000-pounds. The 2021 Chevy Silverado is also a stronger alternative to the Ram 1500. In fact, opt for a Silverado with a 6.2-liter V8 under the hood, and this year’s model will have you towing up to 13,300-pounds.

Does this mean that the 2021 Ram 1500 isn’t the best truck for towing? Not necessarily. In fact, if you don’t plan on towing more than 10,000-pounds, the 2021 Ram 1500 makes for a great pick. To find out whether or not this year’s model would be a good fit for you, we recommend getting behind the wheel for a test drive.