Why do base pickups or work trucks rule? This 2017 Ram 2500 HD Tradesman is a reminder that simplicity and affordability have their benefits. It is a pleasure to drive or ride in a luxury truck with most conveniences of a luxury sedan. These crew cab 4×4 diesel pickups can cost $60,000, $70,000, or over $80,000. (Note: the 2017 Ram 3500 HD Dually Limited we tested for the 2017 Gold Hitch Awards had an MSRP of $79,965.)
What if you just want or need a truck to get the job done in a simple way? How about a 2500 HD Tradesman like this one? Final MSRP on this truck is $36,795, and it includes several options. The optional 6.4L HEMI V8 with 410 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque is a great value at an additional $500. However, the $895 chrome package is something that I could live without.
Remember, manual crank windows, manual door locks, and manual mirrors? This truck has them. It’s fewer things to go wrong, but it is hard to get used to manual door locks. I wished this truck had central door locking system and a rear view camera. Other than that, this Tradesman has cruise control, A/C, and satellite radio. These make any drive nice and easy.
Although, this Ram has rear coil springs, the empty truck rides a bit rougher than its competitors from GM and Ford. However, add some weight and the ride smooths out nicely. You can add a lot of weight! The 6.4L HEMI and the 4.10 rear end allow this 3/4-ton truck to be rated at 3,990 lbs of maximum payload capacity. It is also rated to a maximum of 16,320 lbs. You can do a lot of work with this or carry a nice truck camper.