2009 Dodge Ram 3500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 is that the 6.7-liter Cummins turbo-diesel is standard across the lineup. This is otherwise a light final-year update before the truck's 2010 redesign.
About the 2009 Dodge Ram 3500
3rd generation (2003-2009), final year before the all-new 2010 heavy-duty redesign.
Dodge positions the 2009 Ram 3500 as a true heavy-duty pickup for people who need to move serious weight, whether that means trailers, jobsite equipment or passengers plus gear. Its core appeal is Cummins diesel pulling power, a factory exhaust brake for better downhill trailer control, and a wide range of cab styles, including the unusually roomy Mega Cab. Compared with Ford and GM rivals, Ram leans especially hard on towing strength and big-cab comfort.
The 2009 Ram 3500 is centered on heavy towing and hauling, with a Cummins diesel and factory exhaust brake in every trim. The ST is the job-focused version with vinyl seating and flooring, while SXT and SLT add cloth seating and everyday power features. Laramie is the comfort-focused trim, with leather, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and power-adjustable front seats and pedals.
What changed, by category
2009 Dodge Ram 3500 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Turbo Dsl 6.7L / 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 6.7L | 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 6.7 Liter / 6-Cyl, Turbo Dsl 6.7L | 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 6.7 Liter / 6-Cyl, Turbo Dsl 6.7L | 6-Cyl, Turbo Dsl 6.7L / 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 6.7 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive / Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel | Diesel | Diesel |
| Horsepower | 350 hp | 350 hp | 350 hp | 350 hp |
| Torque | 610 lb-ft | 610 lb-ft | 610 lb-ft | 610 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 8750–17000 lb | 8750–16900 lb | 8500–8750 lb | 16000–16800 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 16.9 cu-ft | 9.5–16.9 cu-ft | 9.5–16.9 cu-ft | 9.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.7 in | 36.7 in | 36.7 in | 36.7 in |
| Seats | 3–6 | 3–6 | 3–6 | 6 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 2–4 | 2–4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||
| Side Steps | ||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Adjustable Pedals | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Power Locks | ||||
| Power Windows | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 Dodge Ram 3500?
The biggest change is that the 6.7-liter Cummins turbo-diesel became standard across the entire 2009 Ram 3500 lineup. The gasoline HEMI V8 was no longer offered.
Is every 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 diesel-powered?
Yes. Every 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 has the 6.7-liter Cummins turbo-diesel engine because the HEMI V8 left the lineup for this model year.
Did the 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 get upgraded brakes?
Yes. Dodge added larger front and rear brake rotors to the 2009 Ram 3500.
Was the 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 redesigned?
No. The 2009 Ram 3500 is the final model year of the third generation, with only light updates before the all-new 2010 heavy-duty redesign.
Does every 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 have an exhaust brake?
Yes. A factory exhaust brake is included with the Cummins diesel in the ST, SXT, SLT, and Laramie trims, helping the truck control speed on descents while towing.