Close 2026 Ram Heavy Duty Buyer’s Guide
If you want to talk trucks, talk to people who live and breathe them. The Ram Truck Center at River Front Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in North Aurora is built for that. Our team knows work specs, axle ratios, and upfit needs. This guide condenses the factory info for the 2026 Ram 2500 and 3500 so you can compare trims and choose the right setup fast.
Power and Capability
Engines and Transmissions
Standard power is the 6.4L HEMI V8 with a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic. For maximum pulling power, choose the available 6.7L Cummins High-Output Turbo Diesel paired to a heavy-duty eight-speed automatic.
Towing and Payload
When properly equipped, Ram Heavy Duty towing reaches up to 45,000 lb, with payloads as high as 7,590 lb depending on configuration. Ratings follow the SAE J2807 standard. Always tow within your vehicle capacity and secure all cargo.
Trim Lineup
Tradesman
Built to work with vinyl seating and floors, LED headlamps, tow hooks, trailer-tow wiring, Class V hitch, and a trailer brake controller. Available Chrome Appearance and Tradesman Power Wagon packages.
Black Express
Body-color grille and bumpers, Sport Performance Hood, 20-inch black aluminum wheels, Mopar black tubular side steps, and ParkSense Front and Rear Park Assist.
Warlock
Off-road focus with Goodyear DuraTrac tires, Bilstein shocks, Hill Descent Control, rear antispin differential, skid plates, tow hooks, unique black grille and wheel flares, and 20-inch black diamond-cut wheels.
Big Horn / Lone Star
Chrome-surround grille and bumpers, cloth interior, Uconnect 5 with 8.4-inch touchscreen, and standard driver assists like Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop, Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning Plus, and Pedestrian/Cyclist Emergency Braking. Sport and Night Appearance Packages available.
Laramie
Leather-trimmed seating with heated fronts and power adjust, 12-inch digital cluster, Uconnect 5 NAV with 12-inch touchscreen, 10-speaker audio with subwoofer, dual-zone ATC, chrome details, and LED ambient lighting.
Rebel (2500)
Laramie comfort with off-road hardware. Bilstein off-road shocks, electronic locking rear axle, skid plates, tow hooks, unique black grille and wheel flares, and 20-inch black diamond-cut wheels with DuraTrac tires.
Power Wagon (2500)
Trail hardware from the factory. Articulink front suspension, electronic locking front and rear axles, disconnecting front sway bar, Bilstein shocks, raised ride height, and multiple skid plates.
Limited
Premium leather and wood interior, 14.5-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch passenger display, dual wireless charging pads, chrome exterior accents, and power-release tailgate. Night Edition available.
Limited Longhorn
Western-inspired premium leather with laser-etched details, heated front and rear outboard seats, ventilated fronts, 14.5-inch touchscreen, passenger display, and chrome wheel-to-wheel side steps.
Cabs, Beds, and Dimensions
Configurations
Regular Cab, Crew Cab, or Mega Cab with 6'4" or 8' beds. Dual Rear Wheel setups are available on 3500. Mega Cab offers rear storage and up to 142.0 cu ft of total interior volume.
Paint and Style
Color Highlights
Standout finishes include Molten Red Pearl, Forged Blue Metallic, Serrano Green Metallic (late availability), and two-tone Ceramic Gray with Diamond Black lower. Rebel and Power Wagon offer unique two-tone looks and off-road accents.
Properly secure all cargo. Always tow within vehicle capacity. Ratings depend on configuration and equipment.
Our Location
Ram Truck Center
- 1851 Orchard Gateway Blvd
- North Aurora, IL 60542
- Hours and Directions
Commercial Sales / Business Link
630-907-1700
Testimonials
I can’t say enough good about the service.
We just purchased our 7th vehicle from them.
“ I’ve been buying vehicles from River Front Chrysler, Jeep & Dodge since 2017, and over the holiday weekend we just purchased our 7th vehicle from them. That alone says a lot about the trust and confidence we have in this dealership. Since day one, John Provenzano has taken care of my family’s vehicle needs and has always gone above and beyond. He is personable, accountable, and truly listens to what we need rather than trying to push us into something that doesn’t fit. He takes the time to make the process easy, stress-free, and personal. If you’re looking for someone who genuinely cares about finding the right vehicle for you and your family, I highly recommend asking for John. We’ll definitely continue coming back! ”
They made the whole experience smooth and simple.
“ We recently got our ProMaster from River Front Ram Truck Center, and I have to say Miles was the best to work with. He was very transparent, straightforward, and made the whole process feel easy. It wasn’t just Miles either — everyone at the dealership was honest, helpful, and really cared about making sure we got what we wanted. Buying a van can usually feel stressful, but they made the whole ProMaster buying experience smooth and simple. This is honestly the best van we’ve ever had, and I really appreciate Miles for helping us through everything and making sure we were taken care of. Thank you, Miles! ”
They have always been the dealer of choice.
“ I went to dealership for service recall not expecting to buy a new car. I found a new car while browsing the inventory which matched my desires and needs unexpectedly. They were gracious enough to allow me to take the car home and show it to my wife. Then they made the purchase of same easier than one might expect. They have always been the dealer of choice in my three previous purchases for care and service. I would (and have) recommend this dealership to anyone seeking a new vehicle. ”
Helpful and courteous.
“ Employees were helpful and courteous ”
Great experience!
“ Chip took good care of me. He did his leg work the repair costs. Very courteous and helpful. Completely explained the repair work. Great experience! ”
Friendly and professional
“ Service was friendly and professional ”
Very quick and easy
“ Th service I received was very quick and easy. Mike G was very helpful. ”
Quick and easy, in and out.
“ My experience at River Front CJDR for the last 12 years has been great and this time was know different. I purchased a new 2026 Jeep Compass, this is my 11th vehicle from River Front. Dave Trisha and marylin made the experience quick and easy, in and out. ”
Easy and fun.
“ Overall great and smooth experience. Dan Spooner and the rest of the team made buying a vehicle easy and fun. ”
Great people to work with!!
“ We recently purchased a Jeep from River Front CJDR and I can't believe how smoothly it went. I have never had a more positive and enjoyable experience purchasing a vehicle. We are VERY pleased with their service. From the minute I requested information online to the last minute after signing the papers we have not one complaint. Citlaly, Jim S and Vinnie are the BEST!!! They truly made us feel so comfortable throughout the whole process. Great people to work with!! We highly recommend them if you are in need of a vehicle! Thank you River Front!!! ”
Responsive employees.
“ Exception service process with responsive employees. ”
It was quick and easy process!
“ Miles was extremely helpful. He answered all questions I had, showed different options and didn’t pressure me into making a decision. It was quick and easy process! ”
Seamless purchase process.
“ I’ve been going to Riverfront to purchase all my cars for a reason. Trust and no pressure. Seamless purchase process. Thanks to the group and thank you Danny Spooner! ”
Great customer service
“ Great customer service. Clean. Friendly and GREAT hot chocolate while you wait. The online sales person was there to greet us as we walked in, and then she handed it over to the sales rep, Tracey, to complete the sale. Vinnie from finance was really friendly and efficient! This process is dreaded by many, but everyone at River Front made it go as smooth as can be and we were out of there in less than 2 hours, which is impeccable timing for the car sales industry. ”
Felt no pressure to buy.
“ Rob was fantastic at explaining all the new features on the 2026 Ram, felt no pressure to buy. Terry and Vinny in finance were outstanding as well! I will bring all my future business here to River Front Dodge. ”
Excellent like always.
“ Excellent like always, personal always looking for ways to save you money. ”
Erza was exceptional!
“ Erza was exceptional! We had several dealings with him over the course of 2025. He did an amazing job to make sure I was completely satisfied with the service. He went above and beyond to get the warranty coverage. The warranty company was less than cooperative but Ezra made things work for us. He is truly an asset to your company. ”
They made it hassle-free.
“ Recently purchased a used Ram at this dealership. Miles and Trish went above and beyond in terms of communication, ensuring the vehicle was checked out and prepped properly, and even followed up continuously after the sale on a few paint touch-ups. First time I actually enjoyed purchasing a vehicle. They made it hassle-free. Would definitely consider coming back in the future. ”
Highly recommend!
“ Purchased a new 2025 Jeep Wrangler today. I found River Front online and I worked primarily with Jim S who was great to work with. Communication was great and the buying process was efficient. There was ZERO pressure to buy all those "extras" most dealers push. I felt like the pricing was fair, I was treated respectfully and I would definately go back for my next Jeep! Overall a great buying experience - highly recommend! ”
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Ram Heavy Duty Trucks
What’s new for the 2026 Ram 2500 and 3500?
The 2026 Ram Heavy Duty lineup brings updated tech, available 14.5-inch touchscreen displays, digital driver clusters, and interior refinements across most trims. Capability stays best-in-class with towing up to 45,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Which engine is better for towing—HEMI or Cummins?
Both are proven workhorses. The 6.4L HEMI V8 offers strong performance for daily hauling, while the 6.7L Cummins High-Output Turbo Diesel delivers maximum torque and long-distance pulling strength.
Can I get a Ram 3500 with dual rear wheels?
Yes. Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) setups are available exclusively on Ram 3500 models and are the right choice for heavy trailers, fifth-wheel towing, and commercial loads.
What cab options are available on Ram Heavy Duty trucks?
Ram HD trucks come in Regular Cab, Crew Cab, and Mega Cab. Mega Cab adds more legroom and storage behind the rear seats, ideal for drivers who spend long hours on the road.
Is River Front Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram part of the Gerald Auto Group?
No. While we share the North Aurora Auto Mall with Gerald, River Front Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram is family-owned and independently operated. Our Ram Truck Center is staffed by truck specialists who focus entirely on heavy-duty and commercial customers.
“ Thank you very much!!! I had a starter problem on Friday before the Holiday weekend and needed my truck to haul my trailer, Chip and Ray at the Ram dealer took excellent care of me and had my truck ready by 3 in the afternoon can’t say enough good about the service thanks again ”