Ram 2500 Power Wagon
2017-2024
The Power Wagon is Ram's ultimate expression of off-road capability, featuring more factory-installed trail equipment than any other production pickup. It's a heavy-duty truck that can haul your boat and then climb mountains to reach remote campsites.
Quick Take
The Ram 2500 Power Wagon is the most capable off-road pickup in Ram's lineup, featuring factory-installed locking differentials, a disconnecting sway bar, and a 12,000-pound winch. Built on the heavy-duty 2500 platform, it combines serious hauling capability with extreme off-road prowess that rivals dedicated rock crawlers.
Best For
Key Strength
Unmatched Off-Road Capability
Watch For
Harsh On-Road Manners
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
The Power Wagon name dates back to 1946 when Dodge first created a civilian version of its military trucks. Ram revived the legendary nameplate in 2005, positioning it as the most off-road capable truck in their lineup.
Design Philosophy
Ram designed the Power Wagon to be the most capable off-road truck you can buy from a factory, prioritizing function over form. Every component from the heavy-duty axles to the skid plates is engineered for extreme durability and capability.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The 6.4L HEMI V8 delivers strong, linear power with a classic American V8 rumble. While not the most fuel-efficient engine, it provides ample torque for crawling over rocks and pulling heavy loads up steep grades.
Chassis Dynamics
The Power Wagon trades on-road refinement for maximum off-road capability with its solid front and rear axles, electronic locking differentials, and disconnecting front sway bar. It's surprisingly capable on pavement despite its off-road focus.
Sound Signature
The distinctive HEMI V8 growl becomes more pronounced under load, creating an authentic American truck soundtrack.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The Power Wagon comes factory-equipped with front and rear electronic locking differentials, disconnecting sway bar, and a Warn 12,000-pound winch. This combination of hardware makes it arguably the most capable off-road pickup truck available from any manufacturer straight from the dealer.
The 6.4L HEMI V8 produces 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, providing excellent acceleration and impressive towing capacity. The engine's low-end grunt is particularly well-suited for crawling over obstacles and pulling heavy loads up steep grades.
Honest Tradeoffs
The solid front axle and heavy-duty suspension components that make the Power Wagon so capable off-road result in a harsh, bouncy ride on pavement. The steering is also less precise than coil-spring Ram models, making highway driving less refined.
The combination of the thirsty HEMI V8, heavy weight, and poor aerodynamics results in some of the worst fuel economy in the full-size truck segment. Real-world mpg in the low teens makes this an expensive daily driver.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for serious off-road enthusiasts who need a truck that can handle extreme terrain while still serving as a capable daily driver and work truck.