While auto manufacturers are adding a lot of bells and whistles to modern pickups, drivers choose trucks to powerfully haul and tow. Driving a beast that can accomplish any job gives you a sense of capability that can’t be matched. Sure, plenty of SUVs and light-duty trucks can handle a decent load, but nothing can compete with the brute strength of a heavy-duty pickup.
Here are some of the best heavy-duty trucks that offer incredible towing:
The RAM 2500 and 3500
When you look at the specs of the newest RAM 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks, you might think you’re looking at the numbers from an eighteen-wheeler semi-truck. This heavy-duty truck comes with plenty of trim options and upgrade packages.
In terms of towing, the RAM 2500 and 3500 come standard with a 6.4-liter V8 engine (410 horsepower/429 lb-ft of torque), but either can be equipped with a 6.7-liter Cummins diesel inline-six engine (370 hp/850 lb-ft of torque). The RAM 3500 has a higher output option of this same engine that offers 400 hp and 1075 lb-ft of torque.
The RAM 3500 can handle up to 37,090 pounds with a max payload of 7,680 pounds when properly equipped. The RAM 2500 is a more popular option overall but can only tow a max capacity of 19,010 with a max payload of 2,380 pounds. If you stick with the standard V8 engine, you’ll be able to handle 14,370 on your hitch and 3,240 pounds in the bed.
Ford Super Duty
Ford offers a trio of heavy-duty pickup trucks: the F-250, F-350, and F-450. Together, they are known as Super Duty trucks. These pickups recently went through a facelift that gives them an updated interior, new tech, and tons of available features.
Under the hood of the F-250 and F-350, you’ll find a standard 6.2-liter V8 (385 hp/430 lb-ft of torque). This entire trio can also be equipped with a 7.3-liter V8 (430 hp/475 lb-ft of torque) or a massive Power Stroke 6.7-liter diesel engine (475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft of torque).
There is an almost endless range of capabilities with so many different cabins, bed, and engine configurations. Super Duty trucks can tow up to 24,200 pounds and hold a max payload of 7,850 pounds when properly equipped. If you go with the fifth-wheel and gooseneck hitch, your Super Duty can tow up to 36,000 pounds.
The Chevy Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD
While Chevy’s pair of heavy-duty trucks don’t have the same towing capacities as what Ford and RAM bring to the table, these Chevy options are great options for hard-working drivers. Regardless of which trim you choose, you can load up your Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD with a plethora of cameras to help keep an eye on your bed and trailer.
Both of these trucks come standard with a 6.6-liter V8 (401 hp/464 lb-ft of torque). You can also upgrade to a Duramax diesel 6.6-liter V8 (445 hp/910 lb-ft of torque). If you have a habit of towing heavy loads, the Duramax engine is a must.
If you go with the gas-powered V8 engine, you’ll have a towing capacity of 17,400 pounds and a max payload of 3,986 pounds. The Duramax diesel engine can handle 36,000 pounds on the trailer and 7,442 pounds in the bed.
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