For most buyers, the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 is the best gas engine for the Ram 2500, offering the strongest balance of power, towing capability, and everyday usability among the gasoline options.
Gas engine options in the Ram 2500
The Ram 2500 has two gasoline engines in the current lineup. The 5.7-liter Hemi V8—with or without an eTorque mild-hybrid system—provides solid mid-range power and smoother low-end torque, but it trails the bigger engine on peak figures. The 6.4-liter Hemi V8 is the top gas choice, delivering higher horsepower and torque for towing and payload. The Cummins diesel remains the high-torque option outside the gas family.
- 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with eTorque: smooth operation and strong low-end torque, but lower peak output than the 6.4L.
- 6.4-liter Hemi V8: the strongest gas option, typically around 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque; paired with an 8-speed automatic; best for towing and payload in gasoline configuration.
In practice, the 6.4L is the preferred choice if your priority is maximum towing and payload with a gasoline engine; the 5.7L remains a solid, cost-effective option for lighter duties and lower upfront expense.
Performance considerations: towing, payload, and efficiency
To understand how the engines compare in real-world use, it helps to separate towing and payload needs from daily driving efficiency. Here’s a quick look at how the two gas engines generally stack up.
- Towing capacity: the 6.4L typically offers higher towing figures than the 5.7L in the Ram 2500’s gas lineup, with capacities that vary by trim and equipment.
- Payload: the 6.4L usually enables a higher payload than the 5.7L, again depending on configuration and axle ratio.
- Fuel economy and running costs: gas engines cost less upfront but can be more expensive to operate per mile than diesel over long hauls; maintenance tends to be simpler for gasoline powertrains.
Conclusion: for frequent heavy towing or payload duties, the 6.4L Hemi is the clear pick among gas options; if your use is lighter and you want lower initial cost, the 5.7L Hemi remains a viable alternative.
What to consider when choosing
Choosing between the gas engines comes down to usage patterns, budget, and long-term ownership costs. Consider these factors before buying.
- Typical towing and payload needs
- Budget and fuel prices
- Maintenance practicality and service availability
- Resale value and warranty terms
Bottom line: for regular heavy towing in a gasoline Ram 2500, the 6.4L Hemi is typically the best overall choice; for lighter duties and cost-conscious buyers, the 5.7L Hemi is a solid alternative.
Why the 6.4L Hemi stands out
The 6.4L Hemi delivers the strongest performance among Ram 2500 gas engines, with robust horsepower and torque that translate to better towing response and higher usable payload. Its connection to an 8-speed automatic helps maximize efficiency and drivability across a range of speeds and loads.
Power and torque
Typically around 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, the 6.4L offers a clear edge over the 5.7L in peak output and real-world pulling power.
Practical towing and payload
With the 6.4L, most configurations can tow and carry heavier loads than the 5.7L, making it the preferred choice for buyers who regularly haul trailers, big cargo, or campers in gas-powered form.
Notes on model years and availability
In the current Ram 2500 lineup (model years circa 2021–present), the gasoline options are the 5.7L Hemi (with or without eTorque) and the 6.4L Hemi. The diesel option (Cummins) remains separate and is not part of this gas-centric guide. Always verify exact specifications, horsepower, torque, and towing ratings for your specific model year and configuration with Ram’s official specs.
Summary
Across the Ram 2500 gas engine lineup, the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 is the best overall choice for most buyers who need strong towing and payload capabilities from a gasoline-powered pickup. The 5.7-liter Hemi remains a capable, more affordable alternative for lighter-duty tasks and daily driving. For those prioritizing maximum torque and fuel efficiency over the long haul, the diesel option remains unmatched, but that engine is outside the scope of this gas-focused guide.