Local suspension tune for RAM 2500 and 3500

American Special Vehicles (ASV) has announced changes for the specification of 2018 models of RAM 2500 and RAM 3500.

Not least of these changes are the new suspension tuning, which has been developed locally for improved comfort according to ASV, the business that converts the American RAM 2500 and 3500 models to RHD. According to ASV, the softer ride doesn't adversely affect the towing capacity, which remains rated at up to 6.9 tonnes.

Other elements of the specification to be revised for 2018 include a revised infotainment system, rain-sensing wipers and intelligent high-beam headlights, a Sports Appearance Pack for the 2500 model and a new lighting facility for the load area – illuminating if the vehicle is unlocked.

The Sports Appearance Pack includes colour-coordinated grille and bumpers (in place of chrome bumpers fitted as standard); black tubular side steps, black badging, dark bezels for the projector headlights, uprated dampers, and black 20-inch alloy wheels shod with Nitto 275/65 R20 All Terrain tyres.

The new infotainment system – 'uConnect 4' – features an 8.4-inch touch screen with 'pinch-to-zoom' operation and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. Two phones can be plugged into the uConnect system, which can switch between the two phones at the push of an on-screen button.

In addition, the RAM 2500 and 3500 gain new options for 2018. The 2500 model can be specified with the further option of self-levelling rear suspension if the buyer opts for the (also optional) eight-foot (2.4m) load tub at extra cost, in lieu of the standard 6' 4" (1.93m) tub. In this specification, the load tub increases in length from 1938mm to 2496mm with the tailgate secured. Cargo volume is raised from 1.6 to 2.1 cubic metres. The self-levelling suspension automatically adjusts the rear ride height if it detects a payload in the tub or a trailer being towed. This system can also lower the height while a trailer is being hitched to the rear of the RAM.

Optional 243-litre RamBoxes are upgraded with a full tonneau cover that's lockable, and the RAM 2500 can also be ordered now in a five-seat configuration – featuring two front bucket seats – rather than six seats.

The powertrain specification remains unaltered. A 6.7-litre Cummins turbo-diesel engine produces 276kW and 1084Nm for both variants, driving through a six-speed automatic transmission and dual-range transfer to all four wheels. Towing capacity remains 3.5 tonnes, with the potential to tow 4.5 tonnes by fitting a 70mm towball. With a pintle fitted, the towing capacity increases to 6.9 tonnes. Both variants are fitted with an exhaust-brake system as standard.

Prices for the 2018 models are as follows:
RAM 2500 Laramie 6' 4" tub – $139,950
RAM 2500 Laramie with five seats – $140,950
RAM 2500 Laramie with eight-foot tub – $140,950
RAM 2500 Laramie with Sport Appearance Pack – $146,550
RAM 2500 Laramie with 6' 4" tub and RamBoxes – $144,350
6' 4" tub, five seats and RamBoxes – $145,350
RAM 2500 Laramie with Sport Appearance Pack and RamBoxes – $150,950
RAM 3500 Laramie with 6' 4" tub and car licence rating – $144,350
RAM 3500 Laramie with eight-foot tub and car licence rating – $145, 350
RAM 3500 Laramie with 6' 4" tub and light rigid truck driving licence rating – $146,950
RAM 3500 Laramie with eight-foot tub and light rigid truck driving licence rating – $147,950

Metallic paint ($950), pearl paint ($950) and side steps ($1500) are extra-cost options for the RAM 2500, but free of charge for the RAM 3500. A Tri-fold tonneau for vehicles not fitted with RamBoxes costs an extra $1795 for both models and the automatic self-levelling rear suspension ($4000 for the RAM 2500) is not available for the RAM 3500.