While it may not sell in the record-setting numbers of some of its rivals, the Ram 1500 is popular among full-size truck buyers looking for comfort and capability. For 2021, shoppers have their choice of three primary engines – including a six-cylinder EcoDiesel option – and a host of trim levels and options. A new TRX model also joins the family this year, a serious off-roader with an exclusive supercharged 6.2-liter V8 under its bulging hood.
The Ram 1500’s 12,750-pound maximum towing capacity is respectable among full-size pickups, easily outdoing the Toyota Tundra and within range of the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. All trail the Ford F-150, which can tow up to 14,000 pounds when properly equipped.
What is the Towing Capacity of a 2021 Ram 1500?
Which Ram 1500 Can Tow the Most?
The 2021 Ram 1500 can tow up to 12,750 pounds when configured as a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) Quad Cab fitted with a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 and optional Max Tow Package, which features a 3.92 axle ratio.
How Much Can a Rear-Wheel-Drive Ram 1500 Max Tow?
A RWD Ram can tow up to 12,750 pounds with a 5.7L Hemi V8 and Max Towing Package.
- 3.6L V6: Up to 7,710 pounds
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: Up to 12,560 pounds
- 5.7L Hemi V8: 12,750 pounds
How Much Can a Four-Wheel-Drive Ram 1500 Max Tow?
Depending on which engine is selected, the four-wheel-drive (4WD) Ram 1500 offers a wide range of maximum towing capacities. A Quad Cab with the 5.7L Hemi V8 and Max Tow Package offers the most capability, with an 11,410-pound tow rating.
- 3.6L V6: Up to 7,460 pounds
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: Up to 9,860 pounds
- 5.7L Hemi V8: Up to 11,410 pounds
- Supercharged 6.2L Hemi V8: 8,100 pounds
Ram 1500 Max Towing Capacity by Body Style
Crew Cab:
- 3.6L V6: 7,390 pounds (4WD long bed) | 7,410 pounds (4WD standard bed) | 7,580 pounds (RWD long bed) | 7,620 pounds (RWD standard bed)
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: 9,550 pounds (4WD long bed) | 9,710 pounds (4WD standard bed) | 9,910 pounds (RWD long bed) | 9,950 pounds (RWD standard bed)
- 5.7L Hemi V8: 11,290 pounds (4WD standard bed) | 11,300 pounds (4WD long bed) | 11,490 pounds (RWD long bed) | 11,540 pounds (RWD standard bed)
- Supercharged 6.2L Hemi V8: 8,100 pounds
Quad Cab:
- 3.6L V6: 7,460 pounds (4WD) | 7,710 pounds (RWD)
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: 9,860 pounds (4WD) | 12,560 pounds (RWD)
- 5.7L Hemi V8: 11,410 pounds (4WD) | 12,750 pounds (RWD)
What is the Max Towing Capacity for the Ram 1500 TRX?
Built to compete with the Ford F-150 Raptor, Ram’s TRX is an aggressive off-roader with a 702-horsepower supercharged 6.2-liter V8. Offered as a 4WD Crew Cab with the standard bed, the Ram 1500 TRX is fast and agile, but its maximum towing capacity is only 8,100 pounds.
Does the Ram 1500 Have Any Special Towing Features?
Ram offers several towing-related features for the 2021 1500, including:
Trailer Sway Control: Prevents the trailer from weaving side to side while towing.
Trailer Brake Controller: Provides integrated trailer brake controls.
Hill Start Assist Control: This feature temporarily prevents the truck from rolling backward when releasing the brakes on an incline. Requires the automatic transmission.
Trailer Brake Controller: Provides integrated trailer brake controls.
Trailer Tow Mirrors: Exterior rearview mirrors can be extended when towing a trailer.
Trailer Reverse Steering Control: Assists the driver when backing up with an attached trailer.
What is the Max Towing Capacity for the 2021 Ram 1500 Classic?
If you’re a fan of the previous-generation Ram 1500, you’ll be pleased to learn that the automaker continues to sell that truck as the 1500 Classic. Available in Regular, Quad, and Crew Cab versions with RWD or 4WD and a V6 or 5.7-liter Hemi V8, the 2021 Ram 1500 Classic can tow up to 10,680 pounds when properly equipped.
