Overview

What's New for 2012:
- New 6-speed automatic transmission on Hemi-powered versions
- Gross vehicle weight rating on 2500 model increased to 9,600 pounds from 9,000 pounds
- Dual-rear-wheel fenders on 3500 integrated into box stamping for smoother appearance

Exterior Features
The 2012 Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty pickups incorporate some design elements from the Ram 1500, but have a larger grille that comes with a taller hood, including louvers on each side. Access to the front winch on Power Wagon models along with tow hooks leads to a unique front-bumper design. Other tow-assisting features include trailer tow mirrors with integrated turn signals.

Interior Features
A rear park-assist system is standard on Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty pickups. The trucks also come with a hands-free phone system that uses Bluetooth connectivity to provide voice control, and improved power lumbar and lateral support in the seats. Ram 2500 and 3500 models also feature suspension tuning and fluid-filled hydro mounts, which Ram says reduce shake and improve ride.

Optional Features
In the Ram 2500 and 3500 crew cab models, two in-floor bins located in the rear foot wells offer enough storage for 10 12-ounce beverage cans. An available center console for the front features an upper bin large enough to hold a laptop computer and a lower bin that accommodates hanging files. A heated steering wheel and heated rear seats are stand-alone options.

Under the Hood
The 2012 Ram 2500/3500 pickups offer a standard 5.7-liter, Hemi V-8 engine rated at 383 horsepower, as well as a new 6-speed automatic transmission. An available 6.7-liter, Cummins High Output turbo-diesel engine delivers 350 horsepower and meets the emission requirements of all 50 states without diesel exhaust fluid, which, according to Ram, is a class exclusive.

Fuel Economy
No EPA figures are available because the 2012 Ram 2500 and 3500 series are exempt from federal fuel-economy testing requirements.

Safety
The 2012 Ram 2500/3500 includes features that help the driver maintain control of the large vehicle, such as electronic stability control and trailer-sway control, as well as hill-start assist, which continues brake pressure for a short time, and a rear park-assist system.

In government tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Ram 2500 received 3 (out of 5) stars for overall crash protection; two safety concerns were noted. To date, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has not tested the 2012 Ram 2500/3500 pickup series.