Morgan Hill Ram - Is the High-Output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel Worth It on a 2026 Ram 2500 for Carmel Valley, CA Hauls?
Choosing the right engine for a heavy-duty truck is more than picking a number on a spec sheet—it is about matching real-world needs with the kind of power and control that makes towing feel predictable and safe. If you are considering a 2026 Ram 2500 for hauling around Carmel Valley, CA, the big question often comes down to this: should you opt for the available High-Output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 or stick with the robust 6.4L HEMI® V8?
Both engines are strong choices, but they are optimized for different priorities. The available High-Output 6.7L Cummins® pairs with a TorqueFlite® HD eight-speed automatic to deliver Best-in-Class available 1,075 lb-ft of base diesel torque and up to 20,000 pounds of available diesel towing capacity. That deep torque comes on low, which is ideal for pulling livestock, equipment, or a large travel trailer over grades on Laureles Grade or out toward Highway 1. The 6.4L HEMI® V8, on the other hand, offers confident acceleration, a maximum gas towing capacity up to 17,750 pounds, and a maximum gas payload up to 3,930 pounds—great for buyers who prioritize payload or split their time between towing and loading bed cargo.
Before you decide, think about where you tow and how frequently. Diesel shines when you are moving heavy weight regularly, especially on rolling terrain and at altitude. The available Automatic Smart Exhaust Brake helps manage downhill speed and reduces brake wear during long descents—something you will appreciate when dropping into the valley with a loaded trailer. If your towing is occasional, or your priority is hauling materials and tools with a higher gas payload, the 6.4L HEMI® V8 keeps things simple while still delivering serious capability.
Technology plays a pivotal role in making either engine feel effortless from the driver’s seat. Available Trailer Reverse Steering Control allows you to guide the trailer’s path using a simple knob as the system controls the steering wheel—ideal for backing into tight areas off Carmel Valley Road. For visibility, the available 360° Surround View Camera and 360° Trailer Surround View Camera, plus the available Digital Rearview Mirror with side camera integration, help you monitor what is around and beside the trailer. These tools, along with Trailer Tow Pages in the available 12-inch Digital Cluster Display, can reduce the learning curve and stress of managing a longer or taller rig.
- Choose Diesel If: You tow heavy loads frequently, need maximum available torque for steep grades, and value engine braking support on long descents.
- Choose Gas If: Your towing is moderate or occasional, you prioritize higher gas payload for materials or tools, and you want simple, strong performance without diesel-specific considerations.
- Must-Have Tow Tech: Consider Trailer Reverse Steering Control, the 360° Trailer Surround View Camera, and available Trailer TPMS for on-road confidence.
- Long-Day Comfort: The available Largest-in-Class 14.5-inch touchscreen with Uconnect® 5 NAV, available class-exclusive dual wireless charging pads, and available Harman Kardon® 900-watt audio make hours behind the wheel more enjoyable.
There is also real value in the 2026 Ram 2500’s work-ready utility, regardless of engine. Best-in-Class Available Onboard Power up to 2.4 kilowatts can turn your truck into a generator at the ranch or campsite, while the available Class-Exclusive RamBox® Cargo Management System keeps tools organized and secure. If you are heading out for weekend trips or setting up at the jobsite, those practical touches can be as impactful as a torque figure.
Safety and driver assistance round out the decision. Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking can bring the truck to a stop, even with a trailer attached. Class-Exclusive standard Adaptive Cruise Control maintains distance all the way to 0 mph. Available LaneSense® Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, available Drowsy Driver Detection, and available Traffic Sign Recognition further support awareness during long hauls.
When it comes down to it, the “right” engine is the one that aligns with your loads, routes, and time behind the wheel. If your routine includes frequent heavy towing and mountain grades, the available High-Output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 is worth it for the torque, control, and downhill confidence. If your work mix leans toward payload and occasional towing with a simpler ownership profile, the 6.4L HEMI® V8 delivers in a big way.
To make this choice easier, bring your trailer details and a typical gear list to your test drive. We will help you evaluate the displays, tow cameras, Trailer Reverse Steering Control, and Onboard Power so you can feel the difference in minutes—serving San Jose, Monterey, and Carmel Valley. One visit can clarify whether diesel’s torque or gas’s payload benefits better fit your day-to-day. Morgan Hill Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is ready to set up a side-by-side demo and answer your engine, towing, and technology questions in detail.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does the diesel engine improve downhill control when towing?
Yes. The available High-Output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 can be paired with an available Automatic Smart Exhaust Brake that helps manage speed on long descents without overworking the service brakes—especially valuable with heavy trailers on curvy, hilly routes.
Can I still tow confidently with the gas engine?
Absolutely. The 6.4L HEMI® V8 offers a maximum gas towing capacity up to 17,750 pounds when properly equipped, along with a maximum gas payload up to 3,930 pounds. Pair it with the available 360° Trailer Surround View Camera, Trailer Reverse Steering Control, and Trailer Tow Pages to enhance confidence.
What cabin tech makes long towing days easier?
The available Largest-in-Class 14.5-inch touchscreen with Uconnect® 5 NAV, available 12-inch Digital Cluster Display, and class-exclusive dual wireless charging pads minimize distraction and keep key information in view. Available Harman Kardon® 900-watt audio helps keep fatigue at bay on long drives.
How do I choose between payload and towing priorities?
Start with your heaviest trailer and payload scenarios. If towing near the top of the segment is routine, diesel’s torque is the smart pick. If you carry materials or equipment in the bed more often than you tow, the gas engine’s maximum payload advantage can be compelling.