San Antonio Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM
Comparing the Ram 1500 vs. 2500 starts with what's under the hood, and what each of these trucks can accomplish. Before visiting the San Antonio Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram showroom, consider which of these pickups will best suit your needs.
The 2026 Ram 1500 comes with four engine options for 2026:
The 420-horsepower version of the 3.0-liter I-6 twin-turbo engine provides the best towing capability at 11,610 pounds1. Meanwhile, the 3.6-liter V-6 has the best payload, with 2,360 pounds.2
If you want to see how the Ram 1500 stacks up against the competition, check out our Ram 1500 vs. Toyota Tundra comparison to learn more.
When it comes to the 2026 Ram 2500, you can expect these engine options:
The 6.7-liter diesel engine can handle up to 20,000 pounds of towing when properly equipped, and the 6.4-liter V-8 engine can tow 17,750 when properly equipped.
If this information isn't enough to steer you toward a new-generation Ram truck, then take a peek at our Ram 1500 vs. 1500 Classic guide. Although the Ram 1500 Classic is no longer in production, you may spot a used version in our showroom!
| 2026 Ram 1500 | 2026 Ram 2500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options |
|
|
| Max Horsepower | 540 | 430 |
| Max Torque | 521 lb-ft | 1,075 lb-ft |
| Max Towing Capacity | 11,610 lbs1 | 20,000 lbs1 |
| Max Payload Capacity | 2,360 lbs2 | 4,420 lbs2 |
Is the Ram 2500 worth it over the Ram 1500? If you require serious capability in your pickup truck, the Ram 2500 is worth it over the Ram 1500. With nearly double the maximum towing capacity (20,000 pounds1 vs. 11,610 pounds1), and payload capacity (4,420 pounds2 vs. 2,360 pounds2), the Ram 1500 vs. Ram 2500 price difference makes sense for the extra grunt.
The equipment levels for the 2026 Ram 1500 are:
For high-performance off-roading truck lovers, the Ram 1500 TRX vs. RHO comparison showcases how the RHO trim dominates trails for the most thrilling drive.
When it comes to the Ram 2500, the lineup is as follows:
| 2026 Ram 1500 | 2026 Ram 2500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Max EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 20 / 26 / 233 | N/A |
| Max Fuel Capacity | 33 gal | 50 gal |
| Max EPA-Est. Range | 572 mi4 | N/A |
There are 10 Ram 1500 trim levels and nine Ram 2500 models to choose from. The Ram 1500 is outfitted with more high-end luxury touches, like 24-way power-adjustable seats and in-seat massage, while the Ram 2500 focuses more on utility with features like tow mirrors and the RamBox Cargo Management System.
Depending on your lifestyle and needs, you could be better suited for a Ram 1500 or Ram 2500 pickup.
| 2026 Ram 1500 | 2026 Ram 2500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Max Length | 241.3 in | 260.8 in |
| Max Width | 82.1 in | 83.5 in |
| Max Height | 77.7 in | 80.2 in |
| Max Seating Capacity | 6 | 6 |
| Max Passenger Volume | 131.9 cu ft | 129.9 cu ft |
| Max Bed Cargo Volume | 61.3 cu ft | 74.7 cu ft |
So, which is better: Ram 1500 or Ram 2500? When selecting between the Ram 1500 or Ram 2500 for towing, the heavy-duty Ram 2500 provides more capability. However, when it comes to daily driving comfort and upscale features, the Ram 1500 takes the lead. In addition, the Ram 1500 vs. Ram 2500 warranty conversation is a tie: both models have 10-year, 100,000-mile coverage.5
Now that you've read our Ram 1500 vs. 2500 comparison, head to our San Antonio dealership to test-drive both models and feel which one suits your needs first-hand. If you decide that you want to compare either of these models to any other vehicle within our all new CDJR inventory, our team will be more than happy to schedule a tour and test-drive of any Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram vehicle that catches your eye. Whatever your automotive needs are, San Antonio Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is ready to answer the call.
If you're choosing the Ram 1500 or Ram 2500 for daily driving, the Ram 1500 is a better option thanks to its smaller footprint and better overall fuel economy. Plus, this pickup comes with more luxury-focused amenities like massaging front seats, so it can be an ultra-luxe way to enjoy daily drives.
The Ram 1500 has up to 20/26/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)3, making it an efficient truck, especially when compared to the Ram 2500. There are no specific figures comparing Ram 1500 vs. Ram 2500 fuel economy as the EPA does not test heavy-duty trucks, but Car and Driver testing returned 22 MPG (Combined)6 with a diesel-powered model.
When looking at the Ram 1500 or Ram 2500 for work, if you need to haul your crew around, the comfort-focused touches of the Ram 1500 make it an excellent choice. However, if your work involves towing and hauling, the Ram 2500 delivers more capability to handle those tasks.
The Ram 1500 also has more trim level options and more high-end luxury features, notably massaging seats, when compared to the Ram 2500.
02/11/25
Purchased a Ram 2500 Laramie last month. Experience was great. No hard sell or long sales pitches by the finance guys for extended the warranties or anything else. Just purchased the truck and left. I didn't even have a chance to finish the free popcorn. lol.
1When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
2When properly equipped. Max payload ratings shown for base configuration. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload weights. Contact dealer for details.
3EPA estimated 20 city / 26 highway / 23 combined mpg with 3.6-liter V-6 and eight-speed automatic transmission. Actual mileage may vary.
4Estimated ranges provided are subject to variation based on factors such as fuel levels, driving habits, road conditions, and individual vehicle performance. These estimates should be used for comparison purposes only and shall not be solely relied upon.
