Everything You Need to Know Before Buying a New 2026 RAM 3500 near Chicago, IL
2026 RAM 3500 Overview
The 2026 RAM 3500 is built around two proven powertrains tailored to different needs. The available High-Output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 pairs with a TorqueFlite® HD eight-speed automatic transmission to deliver up to 430 horsepower and an immense 1,075 lb-ft of best-in-class available base diesel torque. Properly equipped, maximum available diesel towing reaches an impressive 36,610 lbs. For those who prefer gas power, the legendary 6.4L HEMI® V8 offers refined operation, up to 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, a maximum gas towing capacity of up to 18,150 lbs, and a maximum gas payload of up to 7,590 lbs. Inside, smart tech takes center stage with a Largest-in-Class available 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen and an available 12-inch Digital Cluster Display that puts Trailer Tow Pages, navigation, and diagnostics within clear view. If you are shopping for a 2026 RAM 3500 near Chicago, IL, you will appreciate advanced driver-assistance features, versatile storage solutions like the available RamBox® Cargo Management System, and work-ready options including a standard Snow Plow Prep Package.
5 Key Reasons the 2026 RAM 3500 Stands Out near Chicago, IL
- Uncompromising capability backed by available High-Output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6
- Work smarter tech with Largest-in-Class available 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen and Uconnect® 5 NAV
- Advanced trailering confidence with Trailer Reverse Steering Control and available 360° Trailer Surround View Camera
- Premium comfort and quiet with available 900-watt Harman Kardon® system and upscale interior choices
- Over 100 standard and available safety and security features designed for real-world confidence
From the job site to the campsite, the 2026 RAM 3500 blends brute strength with thoughtful engineering. Beyond the specs, it is the way everything works together that sets it apart: authoritative torque for merging with a heavy trailer, a calm and quiet cabin that reduces fatigue, and clear, intuitive screens that help you make informed decisions quickly. This truck is designed to help you do more with less stress, especially in daily driving near Chicago, IL where visibility, maneuverability, and situational awareness are key.
Key Features of the 2026 RAM 3500
High-Output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6
The available High-Output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 is the foundation of the RAM 3500’s heavy-duty reputation. Delivering up to 430 horsepower and a stump-pulling 1,075 lb-ft of best-in-class available base diesel torque, this powertrain is engineered for long-haul durability, low vibration, and refined noise control. When properly equipped, it enables up to 36,610 lbs of maximum available diesel towing capacity. Pair it with the available Automatic Smart Exhaust Brake for confident downhill control and take advantage of heavy-duty four-wheel disc antilock brakes to help you manage big loads smoothly. If your work takes you across the Midwest in all seasons, the standard Snow Plow Prep Package helps you put the truck to work all winter long with a 220-amp alternator and dedicated prep wiring.
TorqueFlite® HD Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission
Matched to both the available High-Output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 and the 6.4L HEMI® V8, the TorqueFlite® HD eight-speed automatic transmission is calibrated for high-load demands. Intuitive software control optimizes shift mapping on the fly, keeping the engine in its sweet spot whether you are launching a heavy trailer or cruising at highway speeds. The result is smooth, decisive shifts without hunting, enhanced driveline longevity, and responsive power delivery that makes towing feel more controlled. In day-to-day driving, the transmission’s refinement delivers impressive drivability, helping the 2026 RAM 3500 feel composed in dense traffic and steady when carrying substantial payloads.
Largest-in-Class 14.5-inch Infotainment Touchscreen
At the heart of the cabin is a Largest-in-Class available 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen that makes complex tasks easier. The expansive canvas puts navigation, audio, trailer profiles, and vehicle settings within natural reach, while crisp graphics ensure clarity in bright sun or at night. Uconnect® 5 NAV supports up to five driver profiles, tow-specific navigation, and available Ram Connect Services. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto™ keep the cabin uncluttered and connected. Pair it with the available class-exclusive 10.25-inch Front Passenger Interactive Display and class-exclusive Dual Wireless Charging Pads to keep co-pilots engaged and devices powered. It is a technology suite tuned for the pace of modern work and weekend travel.
12-inch Digital Cluster Display and Trailer Tow Pages
The available 12-inch Digital Cluster Display puts the information you need where your eyes naturally land. Full-color 3D graphics present turn-by-turn navigation, a customizable gauge summary, vehicle dynamics and diagnostics, and Trailer Tow Pages featuring Trailer Light Check and Trailer Brake Status. With available Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring, you can view live readings for up to four trailers on the cluster. It is confidence you can quantify, especially when towing sizable loads. Integrate views from the available Digital Rearview Mirror with side camera integration to keep tabs on what is behind and beside your trailer. With these systems working together, you are better informed and better prepared.
360° Surround View Camera and 360° Trailer Surround View Camera
Visibility is capability, and the available 360° Surround View Camera plus the available 360° Trailer Surround View Camera deliver a near bird’s-eye perspective around both truck and trailer. These systems prove invaluable in tight alleys, crowded job sites, and narrow campsites. Add in Trailer Reverse Steering Control, which lets you use a trailer steering knob to guide your trailer while the truck manages steering inputs, and connecting, backing, and positioning become simpler and more precise. Complement these with class-exclusive available Power Convex Trailer Tow Mirrors, an LED Trailer Hitch Light, and integrated Fifth-Wheel/Gooseneck Prep Package hardware to build a comprehensive towing toolkit tailored to your needs.
5 Buying Considerations Before You Choose Your RAM 3500
- Choose your powertrain based on workload, distance, and fuel preference
- Match towing hardware and packages with your trailer type and weight
- Prioritize visibility tech if you are frequently in tight urban or job site spaces
- Select the interior that best fits your daily mileage and passengers
- Think year-round by adding snow and lighting solutions for winter work
Selecting the right configuration starts with a realistic assessment of your daily tasks. If you tow near the top of the spectrum, the available High-Output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 paired with the TorqueFlite® HD eight-speed automatic transmission is the obvious choice. If payload is your priority and your towing needs are moderate, the 6.4L HEMI® V8 offers robust performance with impressive maximum gas payload. From there, add visibility and trailering technologies that match your environment, and consider storage solutions like the class-exclusive available RamBox® Cargo Management System to keep gear secure and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key capability numbers for the 2026 RAM 3500?
When properly equipped, maximum available diesel towing is up to 36,610 lbs and maximum available base diesel torque is 1,075 lb-ft from the available High-Output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6, which also makes up to 430 horsepower. For gas, the 6.4L HEMI® V8 delivers up to 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque with up to 18,150 lbs of maximum gas towing and up to 7,590 lbs of maximum gas payload.
Which technologies help with towing and maneuvering?
Available tools include Trailer Reverse Steering Control, Trailer Tow Pages in the available 12-inch Digital Cluster Display, available Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring for up to four trailers, an available 360° Trailer Surround View Camera, an available Digital Rearview Mirror with side camera integration, and the available 360° Surround View Camera. The available Fifth-Wheel/Gooseneck Prep Package integrates factory mounting hardware for easy hitch setup.
How does the cabin balance comfort and tech?
The cabin centers around a Largest-in-Class available 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen with Uconnect® 5 NAV, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, available class-exclusive Dual Wireless Charging Pads, and available Ram Connect Services. Premium audio comes via an available 900-watt Harman Kardon® system with 17 speakers and Interior Active Noise Cancellation. Seating options include upscale Limited, southwestern-inspired Limited Longhorn®, and sophisticated Laramie® interiors, with Mega Cab® models offering class-exclusive reclining rear seats and forward fold-flat rear seats.
Is the 2026 RAM 3500 ready for winter and job site demands?
Yes. A standard Snow Plow Prep Package equips the truck for winter work. Available LED headlamps, bed lighting, and an LED Trailer Hitch Light enhance visibility. Available power side running boards, a Mopar® bed step, and a dampened tailgate with available power release improve access, while available RamBox® storage, in-floor Ram Bins, and a fold-flat load floor help keep tools and gear organized.
Step-by-Step Tips for Test Driving the 2026 RAM 3500
- Confirm seating and visibility fit your daily routine
- Explore the 14.5-inch touchscreen and set up a driver profile
- Cycle through the 12-inch Digital Cluster Display pages
- Test the available 360° and trailer camera views in tight spaces
- Evaluate braking feel with a simulated load if possible
- Assess ride quality over bumps and during highway merges
- Pair your phone to test wireless Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto™
- Check storage solutions for your equipment and cases
- Back into a spot to try Trailer Reverse Steering Control
- Review accessory and upfit options for your work
A purposeful test drive lets you validate real-world fit. Make time to explore towing and visibility aids, evaluate cabin quietness at speed, and put the screens to work. If you routinely tow near Chicago, IL, replicate those maneuvers to gauge confidence and ease of use.
Why Buy from Sherman Ram near Chicago, IL?
- Large selection of heavy-duty configurations and colors
- Commercial and fleet solutions with upfit support
- Knowledgeable team focused on capability and towing setups
- Convenient service hours and trained technicians
- Easy scheduling and streamlined delivery process
Our team has deep product knowledge and a commitment to getting the details right for your use case. At Sherman Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, we listen, configure, and support you beyond the sale with service expertise, parts availability, and helpful tools that keep your truck ready for what is next.
Next Steps
- Outline your towing and payload requirements
- Choose diesel or gas based on your workload and travel
- Pick the tech, safety, and storage packages you will use
- Schedule a guided walkaround and test drive
- Bring your trade information and accessories wish list
Have a plan that reflects your daily demands and long-term goals. Our product specialists can help you finalize the right build, whether you are focused on fifth-wheel towing, job site utility, or family travel from Arlington Heights to weekend destinations.
Request More Info About the 2026 RAM 3500 near Chicago, IL
Ready to step into a heavy-duty truck that works as hard as you do? The 2026 RAM 3500 brings serious power, intuitive technology, and thoughtful safety features together in a refined package that takes on big jobs with confidence. If you are comparing options or deciding which configuration makes the most sense for your business or family, our team is here to help with clear answers and real-world guidance. Contact Sherman Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram to request a personalized walkthrough, review tow and payload numbers for your specific needs, and schedule time behind the wheel. Shopping for a 2026 RAM 3500 near Chicago, IL is easier when you have an expert partner on your side, and we are ready to make your process straightforward from start to finish. Mention Park Ridge during your appointment if you would like route suggestions and towing test-drive tips tailored to your neighborhood.
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