An Honest Work Truck: The 2025 Ram 1500 Tradesman

by Michael Satterfield - Photos by Lucas Kepner - 06/10/2024

The Ram 1500 has long been a benchmark in the /full-size pickup truck segment, renowned for its blend of capability, comfort, and innovation. For 2025, Ram continues this legacy with the new 1500 Tradesman, a trim level that focuses on practicality and value, aimed squarely at the hardworking individuals who rely on their trucks day in and day out. We drove the Tradesman for a week and delved into the details of what makes the 2025 Ram 1500 Tradesman 4X4 a standout value in a crowded market.

The 2025 Ram 1500 Tradesman is designed for work, it’s not about flashy features or luxury appointments; it’s about getting the job done efficiently and reliably. The exterior design reflects this ethos, with a straightforward, rugged look that eschews unnecessary embellishments. The Tradesman is all business, and it shows. With that said our test vehicle does have a few options, a tri-fold tonneau cover, cloth upholstery (vinyl is standard), the bed utility group, we would have added the towing technology group.

From the outside, the Tradesman’s robust appearance is characterized by a black grille, steel wheels, and practical, easy-to-clean surfaces. The truck's utilitarian design is enhanced by its functional bed, which is ready for a day’s work, whether hauling construction materials, race car parts, or anything in between.

Under the hood, the 2025 Ram 1500 Tradesman offers two formidable engine choices. The standard engine is the 3.6L Pentastar V6, delivering 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eTorque mild hybrid system, which enhances efficiency and provides extra torque when needed. For those requiring more muscle, the 3.0L Hurricane I6 Twin Turbo is available, producing 420 horsepower and 469 lb-ft of torque, which ups the towing and payload capacity of the Ram 1500.

The eight-speed automatic transmission, standard across all models, ensures smooth and responsive shifts. This transmission is optimized for both performance and fuel efficiency, adapting to various driving conditions with ease. The Tradesman’s drivetrain options include both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, catering to different needs and environments.

Driving the 2025 Ram 1500 Tradesman 4X4 is an experience that balances power and practicality. The V6 engine provides ample power for most tasks, with a towing capacity of up to 7,730 pounds and a payload capacity of 2,320 pounds. This makes it suitable for a wide range of jobs, from towing trailers to transporting heavy loads. For those who need a little more towing power, we suggest opting for the 3.0L Hurricane I6 which drops the payload down to 1,910 but increases the towing capacity to an impressive 11,560 pounds.

The truck’s suspension system is designed to handle both on-road comfort and off-road durability. The front suspension features coil springs and a stabilizer bar, while the rear uses a multi-link coil spring setup. This combination provides a smooth ride on the highway while maintaining the toughness needed for rougher terrains. The optional air suspension system further enhances ride quality, allowing for adjustable ride heights depending on the load and terrain.

Off-road, the Tradesman shines with its available four-wheel-drive system. The electronic locking rear differential and skid plates ensure that the truck can tackle challenging conditions without hesitation. Whether traversing muddy trails or rocky paths, the Tradesman’s off-road capabilities are impressive for a truck primarily designed for work. Plan on upgrading the tires if you plan on doing any serious off-roading.

Step inside the 2025 Ram 1500 Tradesman, and you’re greeted by an interior that prioritizes functionality over frills. The cabin is straightforward and practical, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. The seats come standard covered in durable vinyl, but our test vehicle has the optional cloth upholstery which isn’t an upcharge, but far more comfortable for a daily driver than work truck vinyl.

The dashboard layout is simple and user-friendly, featuring large, clearly marked controls. The infotainment system is basic but functional, with an 8.4-inch display, Uconnect Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard; while they may lack the advanced features found in higher trims, they provide everything necessary for a work truck.

 Storage solutions abound in the Tradesman’s cabin. The center console in the fold-down armrest offers ample space for tools and documents, while large door pockets and a large glovebox add to the practicality. In the crew cab configuration, the rear seats can be folded up to create additional cargo space, making it easy to transport larger items securely inside the cab.

The bed of the 2025 Ram 1500 Tradesman is designed with utility in mind. Available in the Crew Cab with both 5’7” and 6’4” lengths, the bed is constructed from high-strength steel, ensuring it can handle heavy loads without issue. Multiple tie-down points are strategically placed around the bed, making it easy to secure cargo.

One of the standout features of the Ram 1500 that doesn’t appear to be an option on the Tradesman is the RamBox Cargo Management System (a $995 option). This innovative system includes lockable, weatherproof storage bins built into the bed walls, perfect for storing tools and other small items securely. The bins are drainable, adding to their practicality, and the system includes a 115-volt power outlet for added convenience. Buyers will have to step up to a Laramie trim to add this option, which seems like a miss for a work-focused truck where additional lockable storage and the power outlet would be useful.

While the Tradesman focuses on practicality, it doesn’t skimp on safety. Standard safety features include a rearview camera, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Optional safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, add an extra layer of protection.

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for any work truck, and the 2025 Ram 1500 Tradesman delivers respectable numbers. The V6 engine, aided by the eTorque system, achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The I6 engine manages 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. These figures are competitive within the full-size truck segment, ensuring that the Tradesman strikes a balance between power and efficiency.

Durability is a hallmark of the Ram 1500, and the 2025 Tradesman is no exception. The truck is built to withstand the demands of daily work, with a high-strength steel frame and durable components throughout. The powertrain options are both proven and reliable, ensuring long-term dependability.

Maintenance is straightforward, with easily accessible service points and a comprehensive warranty. Ram offers a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, providing peace of mind for owners. Additionally, the truck’s design and engineering suggest it will remain reliable well beyond the warranty period with proper care.

The full-size truck segment is fiercely competitive, with strong contenders from Ford, Chevrolet, and GMC. The Ford F-150The Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and GMC Sierra all offer work-oriented trims that compete directly with the Ram 1500 Tradesman. Each has its strengths, but the Tradesman stands out for its combination of capability, practicality, and value.

The Ford F-150’s base model offers similar capabilities but tends to be pricier when similarly equipped. The Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra provide competitive features but lack some of the practical touches found in the Ram, such as the RamBox Cargo Management System and the available air suspension.

The 2025 Ram 1500 Tradesman is a testament to Ram’s commitment to building trucks that meet the needs of hardworking individuals. It’s not about luxury or advanced technology; it’s about getting the job done reliably and efficiently. With robust powertrain options, practical features, and a focus on durability, the Tradesman is an excellent choice for those who need a dependable partner for their daily work.

From its rugged exterior to its functional interior, every aspect of the Tradesman is designed with practicality in mind. It’s a truck that delivers on its promises, ensuring that it can handle whatever the job demands. Whether towing heavy loads, navigating challenging terrains, or simply serving as a reliable daily driver, the 2025 Ram 1500 Tradesman stands ready to perform.