Used 2020 RAM 3500 for sale 

Being one of the most loved pickup trucks in the segment came to the RAM 3500 with no surprise since the brand valued quality and customer satisfaction profoundly. The 2020 RAM 3500 has 5 trim levels on offer; Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, Longhorn, and the Limited however, the regular cab variant is only offered in two trims; Tradesman and Big Horn. Each of these trim levels come with an optional all-wheel-drive configuration. The current model of the RAM 3500 Regular Cab will undergo a few alterations in design and amenities so as to make it even more competent in every respect. Some of the noticeable features that highlight the aggressive DNA of the truck are as follows:

Apart from the aforementioned changes, the 2020 model year introduces a Heavy Duty Night Edition package for Big Horn and Laramie trims, which adds black 20-inch wheels, black badging, and a black interior. Nevertheless, in their basic forms, both the trims are almost identical, despite a few features that set the tune apart for the Big Horn variant.

Maintaining the RAM trucks is never as herculean a task as many other American pickups. This has greatly improved the sales rate of the 3500 pickups, be it any variant. On average, 3500 costs about $1012 per year to stay in optimum condition. But, considering the commerce and the fact that Regular Cab is only offered in basic terms, the same is projected to take even less to be maintained.

Reliability and ownership:

The build quality of the RAM 3500 Regular Cab is revealed from the reliability ratings earned through JD Power, a trustworthy and reliable source involved in testing the quality of American vehicles. The pickup scored an overall rating of 81 out of 100 points, which is not only a noteworthy improvement from yesteryear but also a very commendable score given the competition for pickups in the USA. Individually, quality and reliability were racked up at 84 points, while the resale, driving experience, and dealership experience were retained at 91, 76, and 71 points respectively.

Even with such good scores, the 3500 Regular Cab secures the no. 12 spots on D Power’s list for the most reliable heavy-duty pickups. Just imagine how vast the market for pickups is! Also, for the higher trims of RAM 3500, reliability is not really their cup of tea despite being an excellent design.

What is the Warranty offered by RAM:

The trust RAM shows in its own vehicle do not shiver from the threats of competition like the GMC Sierra or the Ford F-350 or even the Chevrolet Silverado for that matter. Likewise, it offers a decent warranty package with the 3500 Regular Cab with very common criteria.

For the gasoline powertrain, the warranty can be extended for a few more bucks, but regardless, it is quite enough and at par with the rest of the segment. Also, it is a really basic package and hence is no surprise to the common man.

Miles per Dollar:

As you will proceed through the article, it will be clear why 3500 is such a heavy hauler. Besides, the average landing cost of any truck is always higher than a car given their commercial use and robust structure, which needs to be withheld with even stronger spares. Thus, owning a RAM 3500 Regular Cab would cost you anywhere around $115 per mile, which may increase or decrease depending upon the user.

RAM makes it very easy to pick the right variant of the 3500 Regular Cab. Offered in only two variants, the Tradesman variant is highly effective with a commerce focused use. However, it is the Big Horn trim that adds more charm to the vehicles. If nothing, it just builds upon the performance of Tradesman with several amounts of amenities that trigger in-cabin convenience and comfort. So, it is a genuine recommendation that one invests in the Big Horn variant instead of the basic Tradesman. 

Although 3500 is available in three powertrain options, the Regular Cab RAM will feature only the 6.4 L Naturally Aspirated HEMI V8 that makes 410 HP and 429 lb-ft. That is a lot of power for a fairly basic engine and also for a significant amount of load pulling jobs. Furthermore, this power reaches the road either via rear wheels, or all four wheels. Yes, unlike some of the other sophisticated counterparts, the 3500 Regular Cab will feature only two wheels mounted on the rear axle. On the other hand, RAM keeps things smooth with the transmission, connecting an 8-speed automatic between the engine and the wheels.

RAM has devised a way to keep up with the top spot in the race by tipping the scales with power and refinement. The HEMI V8 with the 8-Speed automatic is a very experienced combination and a tacit configuration for all the RAMs featuring the HEMI engine. Still, with its conventional set-up, the RAM 3500 Regular Cab can tow up to 16,500 lbs.

Evidently, even though this class covers only three noteworthy competitors, each of them is strikingly different from the other two. Entire powertrain is hand-picked by their manufacturers, with each having pros of their own. Now that we already know about RAM 3500, it can also be observed that it not only has the biggest NA engine but also makes the most amount of power. However, when displaying torque figures, the equation stands reversed, with the GMC Sierra 3500 delivering the highest figures of 464 lb-ft. followed by the Ford F350 making 439 lb-ft. To present a balance, the Sierra is available only in RWD.

2020 RAM 3500 Regular Cab Acceleration and Braking Performance

It actually doesn’t really matter how the RAM 3500 fairs in a straight line, since it is not its domain of work. Nevertheless, as a tradition, we tested the AWD Cab of the RAM 3500 without any connected load. The result was not shocking either, since RAM has the lowest torque on offer. Figuratively, RAM made it to 60 MPH in 8.4 seconds and huffed past the quarter-mile in a whole 16.4 seconds. Well, had you been considering even a mild-sports car, these figures would have popped your eyes out with a pessimistic astonishment.

But, for a heavy-duty truck that is destined to transport loads, the RAM does quite a decent job in the acceleration test. Obviously, the much quirky rivals clocked 60 MPH before RAM, but what is more surprising is that the Ford 350 did it in just 7.3 seconds, which is 0.2 seconds quicker than the GMC. Anyways, one thing is literal with this race, that torque is only what matters on the line when you are carrying a huge body. That early burst of wheel spin is what creates a slim lead that cannot be gained back by vehicles as heavy as trucks.

For a vehicle carrying weight, brakes are its first line of defense during adverse conditions. Technically, RAM 3500 Cab is a completely sound automobile, with hostile mechanics. Unlike the acceleration test, RAM turns the tides in its favor in what is considered to be a crucial test for trucks – braking. The semi-truck with its excellent assembly of brakes takes only 140 ft. to come to a complete halt. That is mountains less than its swift competitors. The secret to RAM’s success is the large ventilated rotors on the wheel hubs that produce enough reverse torque to stop the vehicle in the shortest distance possible. With sizes of 14.2” in the front and 14.1” at the rear, RAM has an expertly designed braking system for 3500.

It is obvious that trucks like these are bound to demonstrate a very unpleasing fuel economy. On top of it, RAM 3500 being the bulkiest in the segment stands hardly any chance at beating the best in business here. However, this huge engine has another advantage in the store for more conserving buyers. The trick is to shut off some cylinders when running without load. This saves plenty of fuel and increases the MPG figures of the rather extravagant drivetrain. Yes, it is not always possible to do that, and also to level the playing field, we tested this truck with the entire capacity of its HEMI V8 in use. Thus, the following was the result

Apparently, RAM has a very appetizing diet when compared to its rivals, however, the difference is quite negligible. An advantage of RAM 3500 is that it has an extensive fuel tank to hold 50 gallons of fuel, which is the maximum any US truck can hold yet, thus ensuring long distances before a refueling stop. 

RAM offers two types of seating depending on the variant of the 3500. However, the Regular Cab design will feature a standard three seating arrangement with a single passenger compartment. That is, all three seats are arranged in a single row. Though it may seem like an advantage at first, as you get familiar with the interiors, you will see that this version is not for tech lovers. The ergonomics of this cabin are very clumsy, and squeezing a third person is not the most convenient of actions. However, it is pretty spacious for two fully grown adults.

Moreover, RAM manages to cut the costs further down by removing all the virtues that accompany a premium cabin. Rather, the features are well below acceptable too. For instance, the driver’s seat is only 4-way adjustable without any electronic controls or even lumbar support. There is no height adjustment as well, and the entry into the cabin takes a bit of effort. Even the windows for that matter are required to be used manually. The upholstery is also somewhat ordinary with a combination of cloth, rubber, and urethane. The third seat takes up space for a central armrest, thus adding to the inconvenience. 

Figures too, are self-explanatory of the meager cabin. Among the handful of rivals, RAM 3500 Regular Cab manages to occupy the bottom spot in terms of seating dimensions. The GMC Sierra 3500 displays the highest amount of space on paper and also comes with a triple seat compartment. 

2020 RAM 3500 Regular Cab Infotainment System

Likewise, the pickup offers fewer idiosyncrasies in the entertainment department as well. There is some standardized content, like the 8.4” LCD touch screen which complements every RAM dashboard connected to 6-Speakers placed ergonomically to give a good surround sound experience. This model skims over steering mounted controls for audio, however, the voice-activated voice control fills up this void efficiently. Furthermore, it even gets wireless phone connectivity so that you can synchronize entertainment based on your mood.

That’s all about infotainment, and the fun does not stop here. To enhance the car-like feel of this pick-up, RAM provides some artistic lights around the cabin. One which we already spoke of was illuminated, central beverage holders. Few others include faded dome lighting, entry lightings, front reading lights, and even an illuminated glove compartment. The instrumentation is old school with analog displays for the tachometer, fuel gauge, voltmeter, oil pressure gauge, etc. It also has a driver information center where you can get accustomed to your own driving characteristics. Some extraordinary features in this section do include:

• 8.4 inch LCD Infotainment Display with FM/AM/Satellite-prep
• External Digital Memory Control
• Wireless Phone Connectivity
• 6-Speakers
• Voice Activated Audio Controls
• Tire Specific Low Tire Pressure Warning

The RAM 3500 is expected to work up to the stage unchanged. It will retain all the updates it received in the 2018 model year since the styling is still not obsolete enough to discard. In fact, its redefined contemporary crafting is one of the many reasons it has been a great success in the North American continent. Nevertheless, Regular Cab variants will continue to be quite “regular” in terms of exterior appeal. 

Describing this version of the truck is fairly straightforward since one requires no heavy vocabulary to mark the extraordinary features because there are none. Precisely, a few chrome inserts on the grille and along the rear are the only appreciable aspects of the Tradesman trim. Apart from those, it is a very simple design and a true mark of a trades’ man. Some of the exterior features are:

• Automatic Halogen Headlamps
• Daytime Running Lights
• Manual ORVMs
• Roof Integrated Antenna
• Black Bumpers

RAM 3500 Regular Cab is the lightest truck in the segment, despite the monstrous styling and a high placed driving position. All its dimensions are on the lower side when compared to competitors like the GMC Sierra and Ford F-350. Nevertheless, the truck is no less stubborn and blended galvanized steel and aluminum body materials ensure a robust stance.

Apparently, it seems that big is safe, but in reality, it is a lot more challenging to drive a heavy vehicle than a car. Then there are situations where you may need assistance to drive through blind spots and also when a tight hold on the load in your box. All these factors create complications to inherit safety in most of the trucks. But, RAM has done a good job with their trucks, especially the RAM 3500. 

Built-for-tough, RAM promises class-leading safety and imparts inevitable improvements that enhance the rigidity of the structure. However, the RAM under consideration here is the 3500 Regular Cab, which is offered only in two trims and remains one of the cheapest offerings by RAM in the 3500 line-ups. Thus, it makes room for most of the basic features like anti-lock braking system, traction control system, electronic brake distribution, stability control, airbags, etc. along with some out-of-the-line features collision control, brake assists, rigid body dynamics, tire pressure monitoring, etc. Some of its extraordinary line-up of features is as follows:

• Airbags
• Side Impact Beams
• 4-wheel ABS
• Driveline Traction Control
• Electronic Stability Control with Anti Roll
• Convex Spotter ORVMs

2020 RAM 3500 Regular Cab vs Ford F350 Regular Cab:

Both these trucks stand differentiated on their own specific pros and cons. While the Ford F-350 is a more versatile pickup with a lot to choose from, RAM is an epitome of refinement and luxury like the segment has seen never before.

Nevertheless, both the trucks do seamlessly in terms of performance, with the scale tipping marginal towards the RAM 3500 Regular Cab.

2020 RAM 3500 Regular Cab vs GMC Sierra 3500HD Regular Cab:

Just like RAM, GMC is also into making hardcore terrain haulers more than it is into making any other type of automobile. But, even with the expertise of Chevrolet at hand, the brand fails to wrap the truck with opulence and amenities that would make it stand apart from the crowd.

In terms of pure power as well, RAM scores higher than the former, thus establishing its stronghold over the segment by defeating its closest competitor. 

Genuinely speaking, performance is one of the reasons behind RAM’s recent success in this segment. The masculinity of heavy-duty trucking clearly complements the large powertrain combinations that accompany the RAM 3500. With a best-in-class towing capacity, 3500 ensures it serves the primary purpose very well. However, this version of RAM 3500 is strictly focused on commercial use. More precisely, you could trust the vehicle to tackle all the problems on the wheels, but the interiors are quite out of line. Also, following the acquisition by the FCA, RAM seems to have significantly improved its list to make its heavy-duty trucks less vulnerable to mishaps. Besides, you already have a lot on your plate to keep you out of harm's way and perform your daily duties without any concerns. So, in that manner, the RAM 3500 is an impregnable armor. Apparently, RAM has developed an overall beauty that has all the rivals caught up in apprehension.