Date Published: July 30, 2026 | 5 minute read | FAQ Article by Adam Pruden at Redwater Dodge

Engine Options and Powertrain Architecture

The RAM 2500 Rebel offers two distinct, high-performance drivetrains, each engineered to balance heavy-duty pulling power, payload capacity, and driving dynamics:

6.4-Litre HEMI® V8 Gasoline Engine

The standard powertrain, designed for responsive acceleration, high payload ratings, and versatile daily utility.

6.7-Litre Cummins® Turbo Diesel Engine

The optional heavy-duty inline-six powerplant, built for maximum low-RPM torque, long-distance highway hauling, and high-capacity towing.

Because each engine carries unique physical weight characteristics and mechanical properties, your choice directly determines both your maximum tow rating and bed payload capacity.

Towing Performance and Rear Axle Ratios

What is the maximum towing capacity of the RAM 2500 Rebel? Maximum towing capacity on the RAM 2500 Rebel depends heavily on the combination of engine type and rear axle ratio.

The 6.4L HEMI® V8 Configuration

When configured with the 4.10 rear axle ratio, the 6.4-litre HEMI® V8 delivers a maximum towing capacity of 14,700 lbs (6,668 kg). The numerically higher 4.10 axle ratio provides greater mechanical leverage, enabling fast off-the-line engine spooling and confident launching when towing mid-to-heavy loads.

The 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel Configuration

For maximum pulling power, the 6.7-litre Cummins® Turbo Diesel comes paired exclusively with a 3.42 rear axle ratio. This setup delivers a maximum towing rating of up to 20,000 lbs (9,071 kg). The 3.42 gearing optimizes engine efficiency at high speeds, keeping RPMs low during long highway drives across Western Canada while fully utilizing the diesel's immense low-end torque.

Payload Ratings and Engine Weight Dynamics

While diesel engines traditionally dominate total towing capacity, gasoline engines hold a distinct advantage when it comes to payload capabilities.

Key Fact: The 6.4L HEMI® V8 RAM 2500 Rebel provides approximately 400 lbs more bed payload than its Cummins® diesel counterpart.

Maximum Bed Payload Capability

Equipped with the 6.4-litre HEMI® V8, the RAM 2500 Rebel boasts a maximum payload capacity of 2,990 lbs (1,356 kg), just shy of 3,000 lbs. This enables owners to haul heavy building materials, gravel, or slide-in equipment directly in the truck bed with total confidence.

Understanding the Gas vs. Diesel Payload Advantage

This difference in payload capacity is governed by Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) limits and engine curb weights:

• Engine Mass: The cast-iron block, turbocharger, and emissions hardware of the 6.7L Cummins® diesel engine weigh substantially more than the aluminum-block 6.4L HEMI® V8.
• GVWR Thresholds: Because both vehicle configurations must adhere to strict class-defined total weight limits, the heavier diesel engine consumes a larger portion of the truck's total allowable weight.
• Payload Outcome: The lighter curb weight of the gasoline V8 leaves more available capacity for passengers, cargo, and hitch tongue weight.

Quick-Reference Performance Specifications

Selecting the Right Truck for Your Workload

Choosing between these two heavy-duty RAM 2500 Rebel models comes down to how you plan to use your vehicle:

Choose the 6.7L Cummins® Diesel if your primary focus is heavy gooseneck or fifth-wheel trailering, long-distance highway hauling over mountain passes, or commercial fleet towing near maximum limits.

Choose the 6.4L HEMI® Gas V8 if your daily routine involves carrying heavy bed loads, towing recreational trailers under 14,700 lbs, driving shorter urban commutes, or maximizing net payload capacity.

For personalized advice, detailed tow charts, or to test drive the RAM 2500 Rebel, contact the team at Redwater Dodge today.

Additional Frequently Asked Questions About RAM 2500 Rebel

Q1. Does the RAM 2500 Rebel feature Trailer Reverse Steering Control?

A1. Yes. The RAM 2500 Rebel can be equipped with available Trailer Reverse Steering Control. This system allows you to control the trailer’s direction using a steering knob on the centre console while the vehicle automatically manages the steering wheel movements.

Q2. Is Auto-Level Rear Air Suspension available on the RAM 2500 Rebel?

A2. Yes. Buyers can opt for the available Class-Exclusive Auto-Level Rear Air Suspension. This feature includes a Bed Lowering Mode that drops the rear suspension to its lowest point for easy trailer hitching and automatically levels the truck when carrying heavy bed loads or high tongue-weight trailers.

Q3. Can I monitor trailer tire pressure directly from the instrument cluster?

A3. Yes. When ordered with the available Tow Tech Package, live tire pressure data for up to four individual trailers can be monitored directly on the 12-inch Driver Information Digital Cluster Display.

Q4. Is the RAM 2500 Rebel factory-ready for fifth-wheel and gooseneck hitches?

A4. Yes. The RAM 2500 Rebel can be ordered with the factory-installed Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Towing Prep Group. This package integrates a structural crossmember into the frame beneath the bed floor, complete with built-in mounting pucks and an in-bed 7-pin trailer wiring harness.

Q5. What is the maximum fifth-wheel towing rating for the RAM 2500 Rebel?

A5. When properly equipped with the 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel engine and Fifth-Wheel Prep Group, the RAM 2500 Rebel offers a maximum towing capacity of 20,000 lbs (9,071 kg). Always verify that your trailer's kingpin or tongue weight stays within your vehicle's specific net payload limit.