The RAM ute range in Australia now spans the RAM 1500, 2500 and 3500, but the RAM 1500 is the model most buyers mean when searching for a RAM ute. Its current Australian lineup combines the familiar 5.7-litre HEMI V8 in the Big Horn with newer 3.0-litre twin-turbo Hurricane six-cylinder variants.
This guide focuses on the current RAM 1500 range in Australia, including engines, towing, payload, pricing, technology and the fitment differences that matter when choosing accessories.
Current RAM Ute Range in Australia
RAM Trucks Australia currently lists three main model families:
- RAM 1500 — full-size pickup, available with HEMI V8 or Hurricane petrol engines depending on variant;
- RAM 2500 — heavier-duty platform with separate towing and payload specifications;
- RAM 3500 — the largest heavy-duty RAM offered locally.
Towing, payload, dimensions and accessory fitment should not be carried across from one RAM family to another. The figures below relate primarily to the current RAM 1500.
Current RAM 1500 Variants
As of September 2026, RAM Trucks Australia lists the following 1500 variants:
- Big Horn HEMI V8;
- Express Black Edition Hurricane;
- Rebel Hurricane;
- Laramie Sport Hurricane;
- Laramie Night Hurricane;
- Limited Hurricane High Output.
This is different from older RAM 1500 lineups, so used-vehicle buyers should always confirm the exact model year, generation and engine before relying on current specifications.
RAM 1500 HEMI vs Hurricane
5.7L HEMI V8
The current RAM 1500 Big Horn continues with the 5.7-litre HEMI V8 eTorque mild-hybrid powertrain. RAM lists output of 291 kW and 556 Nm.
Big Horn is also available with a choice of 5'7" or 6'4" cargo tubs, so bed length must be confirmed before ordering any tub-mounted accessory.
3.0L Hurricane Straight-Six
Most of the current RAM 1500 range now uses the 3.0-litre Hurricane straight-six twin-turbo petrol engine.
The standard-output Hurricane used in variants such as the Laramie Sport produces:
- 313 kW;
- 635 Nm.
The Limited uses the High Output Hurricane, producing:
- 403 kW;
- 707 Nm.
The Hurricane engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
RAM 1500 Towing Capacity
RAM 1500 towing capacity is variant-specific. It should not be described as a universal 4.5-tonne rating across every model.
RAM Trucks Australia currently lists examples including:
| Variant | Maximum braked towing | Payload |
|---|---|---|
| Laramie Sport Hurricane | Up to 4,500 kg | 863 kg |
| Limited Hurricane High Output | Up to 4,200 kg | 782 kg |
Big Horn HEMI V8 is also advertised with up to 4.5 tonnes maximum braked towing, subject to the vehicle configuration and RAM's towing requirements.
Actual towing capability is affected by vehicle load, passengers, accessories, tow-ball download and other mass limits. Use the exact vehicle plate, owner documentation and RAM towing information for the specific truck.
RAM Ute Payload: Why Accessories Matter
Payload is the weight available for occupants, cargo and accessories. A canopy, roller shutter, hard lid, sliding tray, rack, tools and tow-ball load all reduce the remaining payload.
For a heavily equipped RAM 1500, payload should be planned as a complete setup rather than checking each accessory in isolation.
RAM Ute Price in Australia
RAM pricing changes by model year, dealer, specification and promotion, so a permanent price table quickly becomes misleading.
As of September 2026, RAM Trucks Australia is advertising selected new-stock Laramie Sport Hurricane and Rebel Hurricane vehicles from $139,950 driveaway, with the current offers applying to eligible vehicles purchased and delivered by 30 September 2026, while stock lasts.
For current pricing after that date, use RAM Australia's live Build & Price tool or obtain a dealer quote.
RAM 1500 Technology
Technology varies by trim.
Current Hurricane variants can include equipment such as:
- 14.4-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen;
- 10.25-inch front passenger display;
- 12-inch driver information display;
- wireless phone connectivity and charging;
- RamBox cargo-management system;
- powered tailgate;
- blind-spot monitoring with trailer detection;
- forward-collision warning with active braking.
Do not assume every feature is standard on every RAM 1500 variant.
RAM 1500 DS vs DT
This distinction is especially important for accessories.
DS
The DS is the earlier RAM 1500 platform still commonly seen in Australia. Many accessories remain available for DS trucks, but body and tub fitment can differ from the newer DT platform.
DT
The DT is the newer-generation RAM 1500 platform used by current Australian models.
Even when two RAM 1500s both have a 5'7" bed, an accessory designed for one platform should not be assumed to fit the other unless the product listing explicitly covers both DS and DT.
RAMBOX vs Standard 5.7' Bed
RAMBOX is another critical fitment distinction.
The RAMBOX system uses integrated storage compartments along the bed sides, which changes the internal tub profile and affects the fitment of tonneau covers, hard lids and other tub-mounted accessories.
Before ordering, confirm all of the following:
- DS or DT;
- model year;
- 5'7" or 6'4" bed;
- RAMBOX or standard bed;
- existing sports bar, rack, liner or other tub accessory.
Current UniUte RAM 1500 Accessories
UniUte currently carries RAM 1500 accessories across selected DS and DT applications, including:
- Fibreglass Canopy for RAM 1500 DT 2020–2026;
- Stainless Steel Canopy for RAM 1500 DT 2019–2026;
- REVOLVER Hard Rolling Cover — DT 5.7' Standard Bed;
- REVOLVER Hard Rolling Cover — DT RAMBOX 5.7';
- Quad-Fold Hard Lid — DT 5.7';
- Soft Tri-Fold Tonneau — DT 5.7';
- Electric Roller Shutter — selected DS/DT 5.7' applications;
- Sliding Tray — RAM 1500 5'7" Bed;
- Textured Fender Flares — RAM 1500 DT 2019–2026.
Confirm DS vs DT and RAMBOX vs non-RAMBOX before ordering.
Browse the RAM 1500 accessories collection for the current range and live availability.
RAM 1500 Dimensions and Parking Considerations
The RAM 1500 is significantly larger than a conventional Australian dual-cab ute. Exact length, height and wheelbase vary by variant and bed configuration, particularly between 5'7" and 6'4" tub versions.
Before purchase, check:
- garage length and height;
- parking-bay width;
- turning space;
- bed length;
- overall height after racks, canopies or other accessories are fitted.
Use the current RAM specification for the exact variant rather than applying one dimension set across the entire range.
Fuel Consumption
Fuel consumption varies between HEMI and Hurricane models and also changes with load, towing, tyre choice and driving conditions.
RAM markets the Hurricane as more fuel-efficient than the 5.7L HEMI, but owners should use the official figure for the exact variant and treat real-world consumption as usage-dependent rather than relying on one number for every RAM 1500.
RAM 1500, 2500 or 3500?
The 1500, 2500 and 3500 are different vehicle classes with different mass, towing, payload and driveline specifications.
If your search is driven by a specific trailer or caravan, work backward from the loaded trailer mass, tow-ball download, payload and GCM rather than assuming a larger RAM is automatically required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the current RAM 1500 use in Australia?
The current range includes the 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque in the Big Horn and 3.0L twin-turbo Hurricane straight-six engines across most other current 1500 variants.
How much can a RAM 1500 tow?
It depends on the variant. Current examples include up to 4,500 kg for the Laramie Sport Hurricane and up to 4,200 kg for the Limited Hurricane High Output, subject to vehicle configuration and towing requirements.
How much does a RAM ute cost in Australia?
Pricing changes frequently. As of September 2026, RAM is advertising selected Laramie Sport and Rebel Hurricane stock from $139,950 driveaway under offers ending 30 September 2026, while stock lasts.
What is the difference between RAM 1500 DS and DT?
DS is the earlier RAM 1500 platform, while DT is the newer generation. Accessory fitment can differ between them even when bed lengths appear similar.
What is RAMBOX?
RAMBOX is a bed-side cargo-storage system integrated into the truck. It changes the tub profile, so covers and other accessories need RAMBOX-specific fitment where applicable.
Will a standard RAM 1500 tonneau cover fit a RAMBOX truck?
Not necessarily. RAMBOX and non-RAMBOX beds require different fitment on many covers. Always confirm the exact product application.
RAM Ute Australia: Key Takeaways
- The current Australian 1500 range includes both HEMI V8 and Hurricane six-cylinder engines.
- Most current 1500 variants use the 3.0L Hurricane twin-turbo straight-six.
- Towing and payload vary by variant.
- Current Hurricane outputs are 313 kW / 635 Nm or 403 kW / 707 Nm depending on engine specification.
- DS vs DT and RAMBOX vs standard bed are critical accessory-fitment checks.
- Use current RAM pricing and towing data for the exact truck rather than older permanent price tables or blanket towing claims.