With several engine options to choose from, each with its own towing capacity, the 2020 RAM 1500 can handle just about anything you throw at it.
Whether you need to tow a boat, a trailer full of ATVs, or even a small house, the RAM 1500 has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll break down the towing capacity of the 2020 RAM 1500 by engine type and drivetrain, and provide you with easy-to-read charts so you can see exactly how much weight this truck can handle.
So, if you’re curious about the towing capabilities of the 2020 RAM 1500, read on!
The 2020 RAM 1500 Towing Capacity ranges between 6,390 – 12,750 lbs. (2,898 – 5,783 kg) and maximum payload capacity of 2,300 lbs. This can vary depending on factors such as the vehicle’s Curb Weight, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Payload, and other factors.
2020 RAM 1500 Towing Capacity Chart
| Engines | GCWR | Max. Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque | 12,900 lbs | 7,710 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 18,200 lbs | 12,560 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 17,000 lbs | 11,620 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 18,350 lbs | 12,750 lbs |
Here is the 2020 RAM 1500 Towing Capacity with different engines and their corresponding GCWR and maximum towing capacity:
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque: With a Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of 12,900 lbs, this engine offers a maximum towing capacity of 7,710 lbs.
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: The EcoDiesel V6 has a GCWR of 18,200 lbs and offers a maximum towing capacity of 12,560 lbs.
- 5.7L HEMI V8: If you opt for the HEMI V8, you can expect a GCWR of 17,000 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 11,620 lbs.
- 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque: Finally, the HEMI V8 eTorque has a GCWR of 18,350 lbs and can tow up to 12,750 lbs, making it the top performer in the RAM 1500 lineup.
It’s important to note that the towing capacity of your RAM 1500 will depend on the specific configuration of your vehicle, including the engine, transmission, axle ratio, and other factors.
Be sure to consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic to determine the maximum towing capacity for your specific vehicle.
It is also crucial to remember that the total weight of the vehicle and the trailer should not surpass the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) specified for the RAM 1500.
Here I’ve collected all the 2020 RAM 1500 towing and payload capacity information from the official RAM resources including the 2020 RAM 1500 Brochure.
Towing Capacity of Trims
The 2020 RAM 1500 was offered in six different trim levels:
| Trim Level | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| Tradesman | Up to 12,750 lbs |
| Big Horn | Up to 12,750 lbs |
| Laramie | Up to 11,610 lbs |
| Rebel | Up to 11,540 lbs |
| Laramie Longhorn | Up to 11,260 lbs |
| Limited | Up to 11,260 lbs |
As you can see, the Tradesman and Big Horn trim levels have the highest towing capacity, with a maximum of 12,750 lbs.
The Laramie, Rebel, Laramie Longhorn, and Limited trim levels are slightly lower, but still impressive with a maximum towing capacity of up to 11,610 lbs.
It’s worth noting that the towing capacity for each trim level may vary based on factors such as engine type, drivetrain, and additional equipment.
Be sure to consult the RAM 1500’s towing capacity chart to get a better understanding of what each trim level can handle.
Towing Capacity by Engine
The 2020 RAM 1500 comes with three different engine options, each with its own unique towing capacity.
Let’s take a closer look at each engine and what they have to offer in terms of towing.
| Engines | Axle Ratio | GCWR | Max. Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque | 3.21 | 11,900 lbs | 6,720 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque | 3.55 | 12,900 lbs | 7,710 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 3.21 | 13,900 lbs | 8,370 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 3.92 | 15,600 lbs | 10,070 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 3.92 | 18,200 lbs | 12,560 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 3.21 | 13,900 lbs | 8,520 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 3.92 | 17,000 lbs | 11,620 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 3.21 | 13,900 lbs | 8,440 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 3.92 | 17,000 lbs | 11,540 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 3.92 | 18,350 lbs | 12,750 lbs |
3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque engine
First up is the 2020 RAM 1500 with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque engine, which is available in two different axle ratios: 3.21 and 3.55. With the 3.21 axle ratio, this engine has a GCWR of 11,900 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 6,720 lbs.
If you opt for the 3.55 axle ratio, those numbers improve to a GCWR of 12,900 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 7,710 lbs.
While this engine may not be the most powerful option, it’s still capable of handling smaller loads and is a great choice if fuel efficiency is a top priority.
3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine
Next, we have the 2020 RAM 1500 with a 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine, which comes with three different axle ratios: 3.21, 3.92, and 3.92.
With the 3.21 axle ratio, this engine has a GCWR of 13,900 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 8,370 lbs. If you opt for the 3.92 axle ratio, those numbers improve to a GCWR of 15,600 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 10,070 lbs.
And if you really need to tow some serious weight, the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 with the 3.92 axle ratio can handle a maximum towing capacity of 12,560 lbs.
Overall, this engine offers a great balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice among RAM 1500 buyers.
5.7L HEMI V8 engine
Finally, we have the 2020 RAM 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, which also comes with two different options: standard and eTorque.
The standard 5.7L HEMI V8 engine has a GCWR of 13,900 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 8,520 lbs with the 3.21 axle ratio and 11,620 lbs with the 3.92 axle ratio.
If you opt for the eTorque version of this engine, you can increase those numbers to a GCWR of 17,000 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 11,540 lbs with the 3.92 axle ratio.
And if you really need to tow some serious weight, the eTorque version of this engine with the 3.92 axle ratio can handle a maximum towing capacity of 12,750 lbs. The 5.7L HEMI V8 is a popular choice for those who need a powerful engine for heavy-duty towing.
The 2020 RAM 1500 with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque engine may not be the most powerful, but it’s a great option if fuel efficiency is a top priority or if you only need to handle smaller loads.
The 2020 RAM 1500 with a 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine strikes a great balance between power and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice among buyers.
And finally, the 2020 RAM 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine is perfect for heavy-duty towing needs, especially the eTorque version with a maximum towing capacity of 12,750 lbs.
Overall, the RAM 1500 offers something for everyone, and it’s great to see that they have multiple engine options to cater to different needs.
Towing Capacity by Cabs
The 2020 RAM 1500 offers impressive towing capabilities across all cab configurations. The towing capacity varies depending on the cab and engine combination you choose.
| Engine | Quad Cab 6′ 4″ Box | Crew Cab 5′ 7″ Box | Crew Cab 6′ 4″ Box |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 11,620 lbs | 11,540 lbs | 11,490 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 12,750 lbs | 11,400 lbs | 11,400 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 12,560 lbs | 9,910 lbs | 9,950 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque | 7,710 lbs | 7,620 lbs | 7,580 lbs |
Quad Cab with the 6’4″ box
The 2020 RAM 1500 Quad Cab with the 6’4″ box offers a maximum towing capacity of 11,620 lbs with the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine.
This engine option is also available with eTorque, which increases the towing capacity to an impressive 12,750 lbs.
If you opt for the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine, you can tow up to 12,560 lbs.
However, if you choose the 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque engine, the maximum towing capacity drops to 7,710 lbs.
Crew Cab with the 5’7″ box
For the 2020 RAM 1500 Crew Cab with the 5’7″ box, the maximum towing capacity is slightly lower than the Quad Cab with the same engine options.
With the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, the towing capacity is 11,540 lbs, and with the eTorque version of this engine, it drops to 11,400 lbs.
The 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine offers a towing capacity of 9,910 lbs, while the 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque engine has a towing capacity of 7,620 lbs.
Crew Cab with the 6’4″ box
Finally, the 2020 RAM 1500 Crew Cab with the 6’4″ box has the same towing capacity as the Crew Cab with the 5’7″ box for each engine option.
The 5.7L HEMI V8 engine has a towing capacity of 11,490 lbs, while the eTorque version of this engine and the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine offers a towing capacity of 11,400 lbs and 9,950 lbs, respectively.
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque engine has the lowest towing capacity for this cab configuration, with a maximum towing capacity of 7,580 lbs.
Payload Capacity
The 2020 RAM 1500 offers a variety of engine options, each with its own unique payload capacity.
| Engines | GVWR | Max. Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque | 7,100 lbs | 2,300 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 7,200 lbs | 2,040 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 7,100 lbs | 1,910 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 7,100 lbs | 1,820 lbs |
3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque
The 2020 RAM 1500 with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque engine has a maximum GVWR of 7,100 lbs and can handle a payload capacity of up to 2,300 lbs.
3.0L EcoDiesel V6
The 2020 RAM 1500 with a 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine has a slightly higher GVWR of 7,200 lbs but a slightly lower payload capacity of 2,040 lbs.
5.7L HEMI V8
The 2020 RAM 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine has the same GVWR as the Pentastar V6 at 7,100 lbs, but a lower payload capacity of 1,910 lbs.
5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque
Finally, the 2020 RAM 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque engine also has a GVWR of 7,100 lbs and a payload capacity of 1,820 lbs.
It’s important to consider your payload needs when choosing an engine for your RAM 1500, as each option has its own strengths and limitations.
Payload Capacity by Cabs
The payload capacity of the vehicle also depends on the cab and engine combination that you choose.
| Engine | Quad Cab 6′ 4″ Box | Crew Cab 5′ 7″ Box | Crew Cab 6′ 4″ Box |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 1,910 lbs | 1,840 lbs | 1,790 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 1,820 lbs | 1,720 lbs | 1,690 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 2,040 lbs | 1,800 lbs | 1,750 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque | 2,300 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 1,960 lbs |
With the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, the payload capacity for the Quad Cab 6’4″ box is 1,910 lbs, for the Crew Cab 5’7″ box it’s 1,840 lbs, and for the Crew Cab 6’4″ box, it’s 1,790 lbs.
If you opt for the 2020 RAM 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque engine, the payload capacity reduces slightly with 1,820 lbs for the Quad Cab 6’4″ box, 1,720 lbs for the Crew Cab 5’7″ box, and 1,690 lbs for the Crew Cab 6’4″ box.
If you require a higher payload capacity, the 2020 RAM 1500 with a 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine could be a good option. With this engine, the Quad Cab 6’4″ box has a payload capacity of 2,040 lbs, while the Crew Cab 5’7″ box and the Crew Cab 6’4″ box have a capacity of 1,800 lbs and 1,750 lbs respectively.
The 2020 RAM 1500 with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque engine is the most capable in terms of payload capacity with a maximum capacity of 2,300 lbs for the Quad Cab 6’4″ box, 2,000 lbs for the Crew Cab 5’7″ box, and 1,960 lbs for the Crew Cab 6’4″ box.
Ultimately, the payload capacity you need will depend on the kind of work you plan to do with the truck.
What you can tow with the 2020 RAM 1500:
Here are some trailers and things you can tow with the 2020 RAM 1500:
- Small Boats: With the RAM 1500’s towing capacity, you can easily tow small boats such as a 16-foot bass boat or a 17-foot sailboat.
- Pop-Up Campers: The RAM 1500 can easily tow a pop-up camper weighing up to 3,000 lbs. Perfect for a weekend camping getaway.
- Travel Trailers: You can tow a travel trailer weighing up to 7,000 lbs. with the RAM 1500. This opens up a world of possibilities for road trips and extended vacations.
- Horse Trailers: If you’re into equestrian activities, you can tow a horse trailer weighing up to 7,500 lbs. with the RAM 1500. This allows you to take your horses to shows, races, or even trail rides.
- Small Cars: With the RAM 1500, you can easily tow a small car such as a Honda Fit or a Toyota Corolla weighing up to 2,500 lbs.
- Small Trucks: You can also tow small trucks such as a Toyota Tacoma or a Ford Ranger weighing up to 5,000 lbs. with the RAM 1500.
- ATV/UTVs: If you’re into off-roading, the RAM 1500 can tow an ATV or UTV weighing up to 2,000 lbs.
It’s important to note that the towing capacity and payload capacity of your RAM 1500 will depend on the engine and cab configuration you choose. Always consult your owner’s manual for towing and payload capacity information, and make sure you follow proper safety procedures when towing.
Towing Equipment required:
Here are some essential towing equipment you may need when towing with your 2020 RAM 1500:
- Hitch: A hitch is a device that attaches to your vehicle and provides a secure connection point for your trailer.
- Ball mount: A ball mount is a metal bar that fits into your hitch and holds the hitch ball in place.
- Hitch ball: The hitch ball is the component that connects to the trailer coupler and allows the trailer to pivot on the ball mount.
- Safety chains: Safety chains provide a secondary connection between your vehicle and trailer in case the hitch fails. They are required by law in many states.
- Trailer brakes: If your trailer weighs more than 2,000 pounds, most states require you to have trailer brakes installed.
- Brake controller: A brake controller is an electronic device that activates the trailer brakes when you apply the brakes in your vehicle.
- Towing mirrors: If your trailer is wider than your vehicle, you’ll need towing mirrors to see behind you.
- Weight distribution hitch: If your trailer is particularly heavy, a weight distribution hitch can help evenly distribute the weight between your vehicle and trailer.
- Trailer sway control: Trailer sway control devices help prevent your trailer from swaying back and forth while you’re driving.
- Tires: Make sure your vehicle and trailer tires are in good condition and properly inflated to avoid blowouts and other problems on the road.
Useful Resources
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2020 RAM 1500 is a powerful pickup truck that offers a wide range of towing and payload capacity depending on the configuration.
With a towing capacity ranging from 6,390 to 12,750 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 2,300 lbs, the 2020 RAM 1500 can handle a variety of heavy-duty tasks.
The towing capacity of the RAM 1500 depends on various factors, including the engine, transmission, axle ratio, and other features.
Therefore, it’s essential to consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic to determine the maximum towing capacity for your specific vehicle.
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