2020 Ram 1500 Towing Capacity & Specs
TL;DR Summary
The 2020 Ram Ram 1500 delivers versatile full-size pickup performance, offering maximum conventional towing up to 12750 lbs and payload ratings up to 2300 lbs across gas, mild-hybrid, and EcoDiesel engine options.
Trim specifications
All weights in pounds. Ratings depend on the trim and towing configuration.
| Trim / Package | Engine / Fuel | Max Towing | Max Payload | GCWR | GVWR | Curb Weight | Tongue Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tradesman / Big Horn / Laramie / Rebel FWD/AWD Baseline | 3.6L V6 eTorque Gas |
7,730 lb | 2,300 lb | 11,900 lb | 6,800 lb | 4,779 lb | 773 lb |
| Tradesman / Big Horn / Laramie / Rebel / Longhorn / Limited Baseline V8 | 5.7L V8 Hemi Gas |
11,610 lb | 1,970 lb | 13,900 lb | 6,900 lb | 4,790 lb | 1,161 lb |
| Tradesman / Big Horn / Laramie / Longhorn / Limited Max Tow Option | 5.7L V8 Hemi eTorque Gas |
12,750 lb | 1,830 lb | 18,200 lb | 7,100 lb | 5,000 lb | 1,275 lb |
| Tradesman / Big Horn / Laramie / Rebel / Longhorn / Limited EcoDiesel | 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel Diesel |
12,560 lb | 2,040 lb | 18,200 lb | 7,200 lb | 5,050 lb | 1,256 lb |
In-Depth 2020 Ram 1500 Towing Review
The 2020 Ram Ram 1500 towing capacity ranges from a baseline 7730 lbs up to an impressive maximum of 12750 lbs when properly equipped, establishing this full-size truck as a leading benchmark for light-duty trailering performance. Complementing its strong towing prowess, the Ram 1500 max payload rating spans from 1830 lbs to 2300 lbs, accommodating substantial bed cargo across various cabin and bed length configurations. Drivers can select from multiple engine options with distinct powertrain and torque specs, starting with a 3.6L V6 eTorque producing 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque, a legendary 5.7L V8 Hemi delivering 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque (available in both standard and eTorque mild-hybrid variants), and a high-efficiency 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel engine generating 260 hp alongside a stout 480 lb-ft of low-end torque at 1600 RPM. Certified gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR) range from 6800 lbs to 7200 lbs, paired with gross combination weight ratings (GCWR) spanning 11900 lbs to 18350 lbs. Unladen curb weight metrics fall between 4779 lbs and 5350 lbs, while maximum allowable tongue weight static loads extend from 773 lbs up to 1275 lbs.
Unlocking the maximum pulling threshold requires opting for specific axle ratios and factory tow package specifications. Built upon a 98 percent high-strength steel frame, the Ram 1500 utilizes an innovative five-link rear coil spring suspension that provides smooth unladen ride quality without sacrificing heavy-duty stability. Integrating comprehensive factory tow package specifications equips the truck with an integrated class IV trailer hitch receiver, electronic trailer brake controller, heavy-duty engine and transmission cooling, and power trailer tow mirrors. All engines pair with a calibrated TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission designed to maintain optimal engine RPM during steep highway climbs. Whether navigating job sites in a Tradesman or hauling leisure trailers in a Laramie or Limited, these factory specifications ensure dependable towing performance across all road conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of the 2020 Ram Ram 1500?
The maximum conventional towing capacity of the 2020 Ram Ram 1500 ranges from 7,730 lbs on baseline models up to 12,750 lbs when properly equipped with the Max Tow Package and V8 engine options. This is supported by a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) spanning between 11,900 lbs and 18,350 lbs across the series lineup.
What are the payload limits and tongue weight limits for the 2020 Ram Ram 1500?
The 2020 Ram Ram 1500 features a maximum payload rating ranging from 1,830 lbs to 2,300 lbs depending on the cabin and bed configuration. Tongue weight limits range strictly from 773 lbs to 1,275 lbs based on the standard 10% vertical load calculation of maximum conventional towing capacity.
How do the engine choices affect trailering dynamics and torque output in the 2020 Ram Ram 1500?
Engine offerings dictate low-end torque and towing efficiency: the 3.6L V6 eTorque produces 305 HP and 269 lb-ft of torque; the 5.7L V8 Hemi and Hemi eTorque generate 395 HP and 410 lb-ft of torque; and the 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel produces 260 HP with a robust 480 lb-ft of torque for maximum low-RPM towing pull.
What are the chassis weight boundaries (GVWR and Curb Weight) for the 2020 Ram Ram 1500?
The 2020 Ram Ram 1500 has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) ranging between 6,800 lbs and 7,200 lbs. Unladen curb weight spans from 4,779 lbs to 5,350 lbs across various trim levels and drivetrain options.
Do you need an integrated trailer brake controller or factory tow package to achieve max towing in the 2020 Ram Ram 1500?
Yes, reaching the upper towing limits up to 12,750 lbs requires factory tow package specifications, including an integrated Class IV hitch receiver, electronic trailer brake controller, heavy-duty engine and transmission cooling, and appropriate axle gearing to safely handle GCWR loads up to 18,350 lbs.
Always confirm ratings for your exact configuration with the manufacturer and vehicle certification labels. Passenger, cargo and trailer tongue weight affect payload and towing limits.
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