2012 Ram 3500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Ram 3500 is a light-update year led by an expanded trim lineup rather than a redesign. The core truck, including its 6.7-liter Cummins diesel hardware, carries over.
About the 2012 Ram 3500
4th-generation Ram Heavy Duty (2010-2012), final year before the extensively reworked 2013 HD trucks.
The 2012 Ram 3500 is Ram's one-ton tow-and-haul pickup for buyers who need serious diesel pulling power but still want a more comfortable cabin than a stripped commercial truck. Its core appeal is the 6.7L Cummins diesel, factory exhaust brake, huge towing capability, and a wide trim spread that runs from basic ST work trucks to upscale Longhorn models. Compared with rivals, Ram leaned heavily on torque, cabin space, and richer interiors without giving up heavy-duty credibility.
The 2012 range stretches from the vinyl-seat ST work truck to the leather-lined Longhorn models. Big Horn and Lone Star bring premium cloth and a power driver's seat to the middle of the lineup, while Outdoorsman adds an anti-spin rear differential, heavy-duty shocks, and tow hooks. Laramie focuses on comfort and tech with heated leather seats, navigation, and a rearview camera.
What changed, by category
2012 Ram 3500 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 6.7 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 6.7 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 6.7 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 6.7 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 6.7 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 6.7 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 6.7 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 6.7 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel | Diesel | Diesel | Diesel | Diesel | Diesel | Diesel |
| Horsepower | 350 hp | 350 hp | 350 hp | 350 hp | 350 hp | 350 hp | 350 hp | 350 hp |
| Torque | 650 lb-ft | 610–650 lb-ft | 610–650 lb-ft | 610–650 lb-ft | 610–650 lb-ft | 610–650 lb-ft | 800 lb-ft | 800 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 16750–22300 lb | 16650–22300 lb | 16600–19350 lb | 16650–20650 lb | 16650–20650 lb | 16400–16650 lb | 16550–19050 lb | 16550–19050 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 40.3 in | 34.7–40.3 in | 34.7–40.3 in | 34.7–40.3 in | 34.7–40.3 in | 34.7–40.3 in | 34.7–40.3 in | 34.7–40.3 in |
| Seats | 3–6 | 3–6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 2–4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||||||
| Park Assist | ||||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||||
| Fog Lights | ||||||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||||||
| Side Steps | ||||||||
| Bluetooth | ||||||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | ||||||||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||||||
| Subwoofer | ||||||||
| USB Ports | ||||||||
| 115V Power Outlet | ||||||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||||||
| Dual Power Lumbar Support Front Seats | ||||||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||||||
| Leather Seats | ||||||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||||||
| Memory Pedals | ||||||||
| Power Adjustable Pedals | ||||||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||||||
| Remote Start | ||||||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2012 Ram 3500 a redesign?
No. The 2012 Ram 3500 is a lightly updated carryover and the final model year of the 2010–2012 Heavy Duty generation before the extensively reworked 2013 truck.
What is the main powertrain change for the 2012 Ram 3500?
Gas-engine Heavy Duty trucks receive a new six-speed automatic transmission for 2012. The 3500's 6.7-liter Cummins diesel hardware carries over with manual and automatic transmission choices.
Which trims were added to the 2012 Ram 3500 lineup?
Big Horn, Lone Star, Outdoorsman, and Laramie Longhorn Limited Edition were added for 2012. They broaden the range with dressier midlevel, rugged-use, and high-luxury versions.
What changed on the 2012 Ram 3500 Laramie?
The 2012 Laramie gains the lineup's new steering wheel, while navigation and the rearview camera become standard. Parking assistance changes from standard to optional.
Is the 2012 Ram 3500 a major upgrade over the 2011 model?
No. The 2012 truck keeps the same basic design and diesel hardware, but it adds several trims, updates the gas automatic transmission, gives the ST a blacked-out look, and adds standard navigation and a rearview camera to Laramie.