Dodge Ram 3500: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Dodge Ram 3500 is a heavy-duty pickup built for serious towing and hauling. It is known for strong Cummins diesel pulling power and a cabin that feels more comfortable and useful than a basic work truck.
The Ram 3500 has long put hard work first, especially towing large trailers and carrying heavy loads. In 2009, the 3500 centered entirely on its 6.7-liter Cummins diesel, and the 2010 redesign kept that capability while adding a roomier cabin, useful storage, and a smoother ride. Its enduring theme is heavy-duty strength without an unnecessarily crude interior.
Strengths
- The 6.7-liter Cummins diesel produced 350 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque in 2010.
- Properly configured 2010 trucks carried tow ratings ranging from 16,900 to 18,200 pounds.
- A standard exhaust brake on 2010 diesel trucks helps control speed when descending with a heavy trailer.
- The Crew Cab and Mega Cab provide generous passenger space, with at least 40.3 inches of rear legroom in 2010.
- The 2010 redesign used retuned suspension and cab mounts to give this heavy-duty truck a smoother ride.
Who it's for
It fits someone who regularly pulls a large trailer or needs a serious work pickup, but also spends enough time inside the truck to value space and comfort. Crew Cab and Mega Cab versions are especially well suited to drivers who bring passengers or gear along.
Dodge Ram 3500 lineup
ST, SLT, and Laramie make up the 2010 trim range. Regardless of badge, these trucks share the Ram 3500's diesel-powered, heavy-towing mission. When comparing used examples, focus on the cab layout, seating needs, equipment, and condition of the individual truck rather than the trim name alone.
Dodge Ram 3500 generations
From 2009 to 2010, the Ram 3500 spans two generations. The current 4th Generation arrived for 2010, following the 3rd Generation (2003–2009).
4th Generation (2010)
The Ram 3500 was fully redesigned for 2010 with new bodywork, a new cabin, and a true Crew Cab replacing the old Quad Cab. Suspension and cab-mount changes also aimed to smooth out the ride.
0 In Stock
2010New generation
Full redesign with new exterior styling, a new interior, a true Crew Cab, and integrated rear fenders on dually models.
3rd Generation (2003–2009)
This generation ran through 2009 before the redesigned 2010 Heavy Duty arrived. For its final year, the 3500 used the 6.7-liter Cummins diesel across the lineup.
0 In Stock2009
The 6.7-liter Cummins diesel became standard, larger brake rotors were added, and the HEMI V8 was dropped.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Dodge Ram 3500.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of truck is the Dodge Ram 3500?
The Dodge Ram 3500 is a heavy-duty pickup built for serious hauling and big-trailer towing. Its main appeal is strong diesel capability paired with a cabin that is more comfortable and useful than a bare-bones work truck.
Is the Dodge Ram 3500 a diesel?
Yes. In the 2009–2010 range covered here, the Ram 3500 uses a 6.7-liter Cummins turbo-diesel six-cylinder engine. Output for the 2010 lineup is 350 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque.
How much can the Dodge Ram 3500 tow?
The 2010 Ram 3500 has a maximum towing range of 16,900 to 18,200 pounds. The exact rating depends on the truck’s body and equipment, so match any used truck’s specific configuration to the trailer.
Does the Dodge Ram 3500 have a factory exhaust brake?
Yes. The Cummins diesel trucks in this era have a factory exhaust brake, and it became standard on the redesigned 2010 model. The truck also carries built-in trailer wiring and a Class IV hitch receiver.
Is the Dodge Ram 3500 comfortable enough for everyday driving?
It can be, especially in SLT or Laramie form. The 2010 redesign brought a smoother ride, improved cab mounts and a more comfortable interior, while upper trims added cloth or leather seating and more everyday conveniences.
Which Dodge Ram 3500 cab is better for carrying passengers?
Crew Cab and Mega Cab models are the passenger-friendly versions. The 2010 lineup has 40.3 to 43.3 inches of rear legroom and seating for up to six, with the Mega Cab positioned around extra cabin comfort and space.
Which generation is the Dodge Ram 3500?
The 2009 truck is the final model of the third generation. The redesigned 2010 Ram Heavy Duty starts the fourth generation with new bodywork, a new cabin and a true Crew Cab replacing the previous Quad Cab.