The Dodge RAM is one of the most trusted and respected pickup models on the road today. The most recent 2016 RAM 2500 comes in a variety of trim models that vary in price and in accessories. Choosing between the various trims requires understanding what each offers and how the price differs between them. Before going too in-depth with each trim, it’s a good idea to know what to expect from the most basic model. The base model of the 2016 RAM 2500 comes with a 5.7L V8 engine and seats up to three passengers. It also comes with a six-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. Power tops out at 383 horsepower per 5,600 RPM. Unless otherwise noted in individual sections, each RAM trim will meet these specifications.
2016 RAM 2500 trim levels:
- Tradesman
- SLT
- Laramie
- Powerwagon
- Longhorn
RAM 2500 Tradesman Trim
The most basic 2016 RAM 2500 trim is the Tradesman. Its price ranges from $31,780 to $38,810. It includes the basic specifications listed above, as well as 17-inch styled steel wheels. It is a rear-wheel drive model, giving it a little more power than front-wheel drive trucks. For safety, it includes ABS and a driveline traction control system. Comfort wise, you get a front air conditioning system and vinyl seats. The AM/FM radio includes seek and scan options, and is prepped for satellite radio. To get satellite radio, you must contact a provider near you and order installation.
Highlights:
- ABS
- Driveline traction
- Satellite-prepped radio
RAM 2500 SLT Trim
One step up from the Tradesman is the SLT trim. Updates include 18-inch steel wheels, a first-row LCD monitor, and heated mirrors. The latter is included on all higher trims, making it easier to keep them clean of snow, dirt, and rain in bad weather conditions. It also includes a keyfob, which allows you to lock and unlock your door without your keys. The cloth seat is designed to be a little more comfortable than the vinyl seats of the Tradesman. Another nice option is the SiriusXM-ready radio. Instead of having to install a new satellite radio option, you simply have to pay SiriuxXM a monthly fee to receive thousands of listening options.
Highlights:
- 18-inch steel wheels
- Keyfob
- SiriuxXM radio
RAM 2500 Laramie Trim
With a price between $46,540 and $51,680, the Laramie is one of the pricier 2016 RAM 2500 trims. However, it has a variety of nice amenities that make it worth the price. It has the 18-inch aluminum wheels that are standard with most RAM trims. It also comes with heated seats for those cold winter drivers, and dual zone automatic air conditioning. To protect your back health, each Laramie comes with lumbar support for extended drives. It also has ParkSense Parking assist, a program that will help you to park. Other safety features include front fog driving lights. Other amenities include second and first row LCD monitors and leather seats.
Highlights:
- 18-inch polished aluminum wheels
- Dual-zone air conditioning
- Fog lights
RAM 2500 Power Wagon
The Power Wagon trim costs $51,160 and comes with a 6.4L V8 engine with top horsepower of 410 and top torque of 429. This makes it the most powerful of all the 2016 RAM 2500 trims. Its wheels are a little smaller than other trims, being 17-inch. For comfort purposes, it comes with manual front air conditioning and a cloth seat trim. Thankfully, it has a nice LCD monitor which you can use to control the interior electronics. This particular trim is appropriate for hunters, fishermen, and builders who need to haul a large amount of material or heavy game and feed containers back and forth.
Highlights:
- 6.4L V8 engine
- LCD monitor
- High horse power
RAM 2500 The Longhorn Trim
The Longhorn trim, with a price range of $52,215 - $57,285, includes all of the features in the above-mentioned trims, but comes with the standard 5.7L V8 engine. It is a rear-wheel drive model with 18-inch aluminum wheels. While it is a little less powerful than the appropriately-named Power Wagon trim, it has multiple amenities to make up for it. For example, it comes with automatic dual zone air conditioning. It also has heated-cushions for the driver and front passenger, a leather seat trim, lumbar support for the driver and passenger, and a variety of other comfort items. It also comes with an LCD monitor for easier control of the various electronic components in the vehicle, including the navigation system, the SiriusXM AM/FM/HD/Satellite radio, and ParkSense Parking assist.
Highlights:
- ParkSense Parking assist
- Heated front seats
- Lumbar support
Conclusion
As you can see, the 2016 RAM 2500 is a high-quality truck for just about any driver. Carefully consider your options before purchasing to make sure you get the best deal for your money.