If you’re comparing the 2027 Ram 3500 with the 2026 Ram 3500, the biggest thing to know is that Ram hasn’t reinvented its heavy-duty one-ton pickup. Instead, the 2027 model carries forward most of the major powertrain, towing and technology upgrades already found in the 2026 truck, with a few smaller updates to distinguish the new model year.
Power and Towing: Nearly Identical
Both model years offer the High-Output 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6, producing up to 430 horsepower and 1,075 lb-ft of torque. Maximum available diesel towing capacity also remains an impressive 36,610 pounds when properly equipped.
Gas-engine shoppers continue to get the 6.4L HEMI V8. For 2027, Ram lists 405 horsepower, up to 18,150 pounds of gas towing capacity and a maximum gas payload of 7,590 pounds—figures that remain consistent with the 2026 truck.
- 2026 diesel: 430 hp / 1,075 lb-ft
- 2027 diesel: 430 hp / 1,075 lb-ft
- Maximum diesel towing: 36,610 lb for both
- Maximum gas payload: 7,590 lb for both
A Small but Noticeable 2027 Styling Change
One confirmed change is found on HEMI-equipped trucks. 2027 Ram 3500 models with the 6.4L HEMI V8 receive new HEMI V8 exterior badging, giving gas-powered trucks a little more visual identity. Ram specifically identifies the badge as new for 2027.
Technology Remains a Strong Point
The 2027 truck continues many of the technology features available for 2026 rather than replacing them. Depending on configuration, shoppers can find:
- Available 14.5-inch Uconnect touchscreen
- Available 12-inch digital gauge cluster
- Available 10.25-inch passenger display
- Digital Rearview Mirror
- 360° Surround View Camera
- Trailer Reverse Steering Control
- Available dual wireless charging pads
- Up to 2.4 kW of available onboard power
Should You Choose the 2026 or 2027 Ram 3500?
For capability, there is surprisingly little separating these trucks. The 2026 Ram 3500 may be attractive to value-focused shoppers, particularly as outgoing-model inventory becomes available, while the 2027 Ram 3500 offers the newest model year and subtle appearance updates without sacrificing the proven capability of the previous truck.
For buyers who were hoping for significantly more diesel power or towing capacity in 2027, the numbers remain essentially unchanged. Instead, Ram appears focused on continuing the already heavily updated Heavy Duty formula into the new model year.
