Great Power and Pedigree: Examining the Monstrous Engines of the Ram 2500

Ram trucks are known for many things. Since separating from Dodge in 2010, Ram has completely shifted its focus to producing pickup trucks that embody prowess, prestige, and sophistication. Of the trucks that Ram currently offers, the 2500 is by far the ideal compromise between unmitigated capability and refined luxury.

A new or used Ram 2500 for sale in Nashville offers many advantages. The heavy-duty truck can be utilized for either occupational tasks or off-roading, offering trims that cater to both needs. In addition to its prowess and performance, the Ram 2500 boasts numerous luxury-oriented features and advanced driving assistance technologies, making it a favored offering among many.

However, for most truck drivers, having a highly capable powertrain makes all the difference. The Ram 2500 offers two distinctive engines that are renowned for their capabilities. The gas-powered HEMI 6.4L V8, known as the “Apache,” and the Cummins 6.7L diesel six-cylinder offer performance and the ability to accomplish a broad range of tasks.

Today, we’re looking at both engines. We’ll examine what they’re capable of, how they came to be synonymous with the Ram brand, and what they have to offer you, whether you’re a tradesperson or adventurer, whether one of these powertrains can give you the competitive edge you need when you’re on or off the road.

The HEMI “Apache” 6.4L V8

A Legend Is Born

Heavy-duty trucks like the Ram 2500 have had a long and fruitful relationship with the V8 engine. Nashville drivers familiar with the term ‘HEMI’ may be aware of the colorful history of the powertrain, which dates back to the 1950s. The original HEMI debuted in 1951 and was utilized in many pickup trucks built by Dodge, as well as some of the luxury-oriented coupes built by Chrysler, such as the New Yorker.

The HEMI’s Evolution Begins…and Ends

The second incarnation of the HEMI engine, which existed from 1964 to 1971, was more oriented towards performance. Performance was a key aspect during what we now refer to as the golden age of the musclecar. HEMI V8 engines grace many muscle cars geared towards performance, such as the Dodge Charger and Challenger, Plymouth Barracuda, and even the Super Bird.

The muscle car’s time in the sun was relatively brief. The rise of emissions laws and the need for more fuel-efficient vehicles would eventually lead to the phase-out of the HEMI and many of its performance-oriented counterparts. However, with pickup trucks needing more capability at the dawn of the new millennium, the HEMI would make a welcome return, and a new generation would once more be captivated by the engine’s capabilities.

A Triumphant Return

The HEMI was resurrected in 2003. The modern HEMI’s application would be far broader than it had been in previous incarnations. SUVs like the Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Wagoneer would all benefit from the engine. Modern incarnations of the muscle car would also be endowed with the power of performance that the HEMI has long been associated with. The Ram 1500, still part of the Dodge brand, would also now feature a HEMI engine under the hood.

As Ram and Dodge had their separation in 2010, the 2500 would be graced with a HEMI designed to give its drivers the capability they craved. From 2010 to 2018, the Ram 2500 featured a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine under the hood. The engine offered remarkable performance, producing 383 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. In 2014, a new HEMI engine debuted, one that remains closely associated with the truck to this day.

What You Can Expect in Recent Models

The 6.4L HEMI V8, known to many as the “Apache,” offered more performance than the 5.7L, producing 410 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque. From 2020 to 2023, the HEMI pushed the limitations of towing ability, allowing the Ram 2500 to pull 17,540 lbs when properly equipped. In 2025, the Apache improved its towing capabilities, with a new rating of 17,750 lbs.

In addition to its pulling power, the Ram 2500 with a HEMI also permits sustainable payload capabilities. Models built in 2021 can hold up to 4,480 lbs. From 2022 to 2024, payload capabilities remained relatively consistent, with 4,000 lbs or more being available for hauling purposes. The HEMI V8 is a highly capable powertrain, one that Nashville drivers can utilize for their vocation or extracurricular activities. The engine honors its predecessors, offering plenty of performance and capability that continues to exceed expectations.

The Cummins 6.7L High-Output Turbo Diesel Six-Cylinder

The last few decades have seen the diesel-fueled powertrain experience a renaissance. Many of the domestic truck brands have proven that the diesel engine remains a reliable and viable means of achieving performance and capability. Diesel engines tend to achieve better fuel economy than their gas-powered counterparts.

In addition to their economic advantages, diesel engines can produce more torque at lower RPMs, placing less stress on the engine. A reliable diesel engine can offer impressive towing capabilities, making it favored among many tradespeople.

The 6.7L Cummins Engine Makes Its Debut

The 6.7L Cummins six-cylinder is seen by many as the ideal balance of performance and capability. The engine was announced in 2011, a year following the separation between Ram and Dodge. The 350 hp and 800 lb-ft of torque provided the early incarnations of the powertrain with plenty of performance and pulling power for any driver who needed the extra help when accomplishing their intended tasks.

A Look at Capabilities From Recent Models

From 2021 to 2023, the Cummins engine produced 370 hp and an impressive 850 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission to enhance its performance. During the same time period, the Cummins engine demonstrated its remarkable capabilities. It allowed the Ram 2500 to pull up to 20,000 lbs when properly equipped and accommodate a payload of 3,160 lbs.

In 2025, a major change was implemented to the Ram 2500’s diesel-fueled dynamo. The engine would share the same eight-speed automatic transmission as the HEMI V8. More importantly, performance increased significantly. Since 2025, the Cummins has been able to produce 430 hp and 1,075 lb-ft of torque. The tow rating offered by the Cummins engine has remained consistent, making it a favorable option for those who frequently tow a trailer.

The Cummins engine is proof that the diesel-fueled powertrain remains a viable option. While some brands have limited their diesel options to drivers, Ram is committed to continuing to offer the advantages and capabilities of the Cummins to drivers for many years to come.

Two Engines With Limitless Possibilities

It’s easy to see why so many prefer the Ram brand over Ford, Chevy, and GMC. From the ground up, Ram trucks offer the ideal blend of style and substance that many drivers seek. Truck drivers tend to favor performance above all else, and drivers in Nashville will love both options that the Ram 2500 has to offer.

Obtaining the ideal amount of performance and pulling power is easy when you shop at Online.cars. With our extensive online selection of pre-owned models that’s continually growing, you can find a Ram 2500 with either the “Apache” V8 or Cummins diesel engine that will perfectly suit your needs. With affordable options and delivery, we can put the prowess and pedigree of the Ram brand directly at your fingertips.