2014 Ram 1500: EcoDiesel Earns 9,200-lb. Tow Rating

This could be ye olde tipping point in the full-size pickup segment: When equipped with its 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine and configured with rear-wheel drive, a regular cab and long bed, the 2014 Ram 1500 will be able to tow 9,200 lbs. That’s up into V8 territory for some rival trucks and, in the Ram, will be complemented by the highest fuel-economy rating of any full-size pickup in the country. Of course, Ram already holds that record, with its Pentastar V6 gas engine good for 25 mpg, but the brand claims the diesel version will do even better. And at that stage, the case for buying a full-size, V6-engined truck will be a compelling one indeed—especially since the Pentastar-powered Ram also offers a best-in-class tow rating of its own, at an increased 7,450 lbs.

Mike Cairns, chief engineer for Ram Truck, explains the enhancement: "There was more towing capacity in the V6 Ram 1500 but we needed to upgrade the transmission to hold the truck and trailer when parked on steep grades. Now that we're building the transmissions ourselves, the improvements are included in the new assembly."

Just remember that, in addition to the EcoDiesel and Pentastar V6s—producing 240 hp/420 lb.-ft. of torque and 305/269, respectively—a HEMI V8 remains on the menu for the 2014 Ram 1500 as well. The 5.7-liter powerplant pumps out 395 hp and 407 lb.-ft. of torque, and enables the 2014 Ram 1500 to tow up to 10,450 lbs.

Drivers can look for more info about the 2014 Ram 1500, along with the trucks themselves, later this year.