Shopping for a heavy-duty pickup in Mississauga means answering two questions: How much can it tow, and what's under the hood? The 2026 Ram HD 2500 delivers clear answers to both, with a powertrain lineup built for serious work and towing capacity that matches real-world demands.
From hauling equipment to job sites across Ontario to towing trailers on Highway 401, understanding your engine and towing options is essential. Here's what you need to know about the 2026 Ram HD 2500's capability.
Engine Options: HEMI V-8 vs. Cummins Diesel
The 2026 Ram HD 2500 offers two distinct powertrains, each designed for different workloads and preferences.
6.4 L HEMI V-8 (Standard)
The standard engine across all 2026 Ram HD 2500 trims is the 6.4 L HEMI V-8. This naturally aspirated gasoline engine delivers:
- Displacement: 6.4 L (392 cu. in.)
- Horsepower: 405 hp
- Torque: 429 lb-ft
The HEMI V-8 pairs with the ZF TorqueFlite HD 8HP75 eight-speed automatic transmission, offering adaptive electronic control and Electronic Range Select for manual gear control when needed. This powertrain combination delivers strong, predictable power across the entire rev range, making it well-suited for daily driving and moderate towing tasks.
The 6.4 L HEMI runs on regular unleaded 87-octane fuel and features variable cam timing, pushrod-operated overhead valves, and sequential multiport electronic fuel injection. Its deep-skirt cast-iron block and hemispherical combustion chambers contribute to durability under sustained load.
6.7 L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 High Output (Optional)
For buyers prioritizing maximum towing capacity and torque, the optional 6.7 L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 High Output engine is available across the lineup. This inline-six turbocharged diesel produces:
- Displacement: 6.7 L (408 cu. in.)
- Horsepower: 430 hp
- Torque: 1,075 lb-ft
This engine represents Ram's segment-leading torque output, delivering 1,075 lb-ft at just 1,800 rpm. The Cummins diesel pairs with the ZF TorqueFlite HD 8AP1075 eight-speed automatic transmission, specifically engineered to handle the diesel's high torque output.
The 6.7 L Cummins features a compacted graphite iron block, cast-iron head, electronic high-pressure common rail fuel injection, and selective catalytic reduction emissions controls. It requires ultra-low sulphur diesel fuel and includes an 11.3 L oil capacity with a filter.
Towing Capacity: What the 2026 Ram HD 2500 Can Handle
Towing capacity varies depending on the configuration, drivetrain, and equipment. Here's what the 2026 Ram HD 2500 offers across different cab and bed configurations.
Conventional Towing
For standard bumper-pull towing, the 2026 Ram HD 2500 provides:
|
Configuration
|
Engine
|
Max Conventional Towing
|
|
Crew Cab, Short Bed, 4x4
|
6.4 L HEMI V-8
|
6,772 kg (14,932 lbs)
|
|
Black Express 4x4, Crew Cab, Short Bed
|
6.4 L HEMI V-8
|
6,772 kg (14,932 lbs)
|
|
Warlock 4x4, Crew Cab, Short Bed
|
6.4 L HEMI V-8
|
6,772 kg (14,932 lbs)
|
Fifth-Wheel and Gooseneck Towing
For heavier trailers using fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitches, the Ram HD 2500 offers increased capacity. The 6.7 L Cummins diesel-equipped models can tow up to 9,072 kg (20,000 lbs) when properly configured with the appropriate towing package and equipment. This capability positions the Ram HD 2500 competitively for contractors, RV owners, and commercial operators who need maximum pulling power.
The trailer tongue weight should be 10–15% of the total loaded trailer weight for conventional towing and 15–25% for fifth-wheel or gooseneck applications. Always verify your specific configuration's ratings on the Safety Compliance Certification Label located on the driver's door jamb.
Payload Capacity
Payload capacity—the maximum weight you can carry in the bed and cab—varies by trim and configuration:
|
Trim
|
Payload Capacity
|
|
Black Express 4x4, Crew Cab, Short Bed
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1,506 kg (3,320 lbs)
|
|
Warlock 4x4, Crew Cab, Short Bed
|
1,506 kg (3,320 lbs)
|
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) for most 2026 Ram HD 2500 configurations is 10,000 pounds (4,536 kg). Keep in mind that payload capacity decreases as you add passengers, cargo, and aftermarket accessories.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Both engines pair with eight-speed automatic transmissions, but each is specifically calibrated for its powerplant:
6.4 L HEMI V-8: ZF TorqueFlite HD 8HP75
- Five-clutch-pack design
- 7.03 overall ratio spread
- Electronic Range Select capability
- Available axle ratios: 3.73 (standard), 4.10 (optional)
6.7 L Cummins Diesel: ZF TorqueFlite HD 8AP1075
- Reinforced for high-torque applications
- Turbine torsional damper for low lock-up speeds
- Standard 3.42 axle ratio
All 4x4 models feature part-time four-wheel drive with an electric shift transfer case, offering 2WD, 4WD High, Neutral, and 4WD Low modes. The low-range ratio is 2.64:1, providing increased crawl capability for off-road or low-speed towing situations.
Suspension and Chassis
The 2026 Ram HD 2500 utilizes Ram's exclusive five-link coil rear suspension system, which offers improved ride quality compared to traditional leaf-spring setups while maintaining heavy-duty capability. This design improves driver comfort and handling in both loaded and unloaded conditions.
Front Suspension (4x4):
- Three-link with track bar
- Coil springs
- Stabilizer bar
- Solid axle
Rear Suspension:
- Five-link with track bar
- Coil springs
- Stabilizer bar
- Solid axle
- Optional airbags available
Ground clearance varies by model, with the Rebel and Power Wagon offering 360.7 mm (14.2 in.) for enhanced off-road capability, while standard models provide 236.2 mm (9.3 in.).
Braking System
All 2026 Ram HD 2500 models feature four-wheel disc brakes with ABS:
- Front: 359.9 x 39.1 mm (14.17 x 1.54 in.) disc with twin-piston pin-slider calliper
- Rear: 357.9 x 34.0 mm (14.09 x 1.34 in.) disc with twin-piston pin-slider calliper
The HEMI V-8 uses dual-rate tandem diaphragm vacuum power assist, while the Cummins diesel employs hydro-boost for increased braking power under load.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel tank capacity varies by configuration:
- Standard: 117.3 L
- Long Bed Models: 121.1 L
The larger fuel tank option is particularly valuable for long-distance towing, reducing the frequency of fuel stops when hauling heavy loads.
Which Powertrain Matches Your Needs?
Choose the 6.4 L HEMI V-8 if:
- You tow occasionally or under 6,800 kg (15,000 lbs)
- You prefer lower upfront cost and simpler maintenance
- You primarily use the truck for mixed-duty work and daily driving
- You want the flexibility of regular unleaded fuel
Choose the 6.7 L Cummins Diesel if:
- You regularly tow heavy trailers approaching or exceeding 7,700 kg (17,000 lbs)
- You need maximum torque for steep grades or challenging terrain
- You prioritize long-term fuel efficiency for high-mileage commercial use
- You're willing to invest in the diesel premium for increased capability
Experience the 2026 Ram HD 2500 at Cooksville Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram
The 2026 Ram HD 2500 offers two robust powertrain options, each tailored to meet distinct work demands and towing requirements. The proven HEMI V-8 or the torque-leading Cummins diesel both deliver capability and durability.
Book your test drive today at Cooksville Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram in Mississauga. Our team will guide you through both engines and help you select the right trim, engine, and equipment package tailored to your specific towing and hauling requirements.
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