Why the Cummins Turbo Diesel Remains the Gold Standard for Heavy-Duty Towing in the 2026 Ram HD

When your livelihood depends on moving serious weight across New Brunswick's highways—from hauling construction equipment on the Trans-Canada to towing fifth-wheels through the Fundy region—you need a powertrain that delivers consistent, reliable torque. For decades, one name has dominated heavy-duty diesel performance: Cummins. In the 2026 Ram 2500 and 3500 HD lineup, the available 6.7 L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 continues to set the benchmark for torque delivery, durability, and long-term value.

While Ram's standard 6.4 L HEMI V-8 offers solid capability for many applications, the Cummins diesel option represents a different class of performance—one engineered specifically for operators who demand maximum pulling power, superior fuel efficiency under load, and the longevity to rack up hundreds of thousands of kilometres.

Torque That Moves Mountains: 1,075 lb-ft at Low RPM

The defining characteristic of the Cummins 6.7 L Turbo Diesel is its low-end torque delivery. This inline six-cylinder turbocharged diesel produces 430 hp at 2,800 rpm and a massive 1,075 lb-ft of torque at just 1,800 rpm. That low-end torque delivery translates to effortless acceleration from a standstill, even when towing maximum loads.

Compare this to the standard 6.4 L HEMI V-8, which delivers 405 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque. While the HEMI provides strong performance for lighter towing and daily driving, the Cummins diesel offers 2.5 times the torque—a critical advantage when pulling heavy trailers up grades or maintaining highway speeds with significant payload in the bed.

Key Performance Advantages:

• 1,075 lb-ft torque at 1,800 rpm (Cummins) vs. 429 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm (HEMI)
• Turbocharged inline six-cylinder configuration optimized for sustained load
• Electronic high-pressure common rail fuel injection for precise combustion control
• 16.2:1 compression ratio engineered for diesel efficiency

The Cummins engine's torque curve remains flat and accessible across a wide RPM range, meaning you're not constantly downshifting to find power. This characteristic reduces transmission wear, improves driver confidence when merging or passing with a trailer, and minimizes fuel consumption during extended highway towing.

Towing Capacity: Built for Commercial-Grade Demands

The Cummins diesel option consistently enables the highest conventional, fifth-wheel, and gooseneck towing capacities across the Ram HD lineup. The 2026 Ram 2500 and 3500 models equipped with the Cummins diesel are engineered to handle maximum-rated loads across all towing configurations.

These capabilities reflect the Cummins diesel's ability to maintain stable operation under sustained load. The engine's compacted graphite iron block and cast-iron head construction provide exceptional durability, while the electronic high-pressure common rail fuel injection system ensures efficient combustion even when working hard.

For operators in Fredericton and across New Brunswick who regularly tow enclosed trailers, livestock haulers, or heavy equipment, the Cummins diesel's capability translates to fewer concerns about exceeding ratings and greater flexibility in how you configure your truck and trailer combination.

Fuel Efficiency and Operating Costs: The Long-Term Advantage

Diesel engines inherently deliver superior fuel efficiency compared to gasoline engines when working under load. The Cummins 6.7 L diesel's high compression ratio and precise fuel injection system optimize combustion, resulting in better fuel economy—particularly during highway towing and hauling scenarios.

Over the lifespan of a heavy-duty truck—especially for commercial operators logging 30,000+ kilometres annually—this efficiency advantage translates to significant cost savings.

Operational Benefits:

• Lower fuel consumption per kilometre when towing heavy loads
• Extended range between fill-ups during long-haul trips
• Reduced frequency of refuelling stops on job sites or remote locations
• Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system meets emissions standards while maintaining performance

The Cummins diesel also requires less frequent refuelling during extended towing trips—a practical advantage when hauling across New Brunswick's rural highways or travelling to remote job sites where fuel stations are spaced farther apart.

Durability and Longevity: Engineered for the Long Haul

One of the most compelling reasons commercial operators and serious towing enthusiasts choose the Cummins diesel is its reputation for longevity. Diesel engines are inherently more durable than gasoline engines due to their robust construction and lower operating RPM ranges. The Cummins 6.7 L features:

• Compacted graphite iron (CGI) block: Stronger and more heat-resistant than conventional cast iron
• Cast-iron cylinder head: Exceptional durability under sustained high temperatures
• Hydraulic valve lifters: Reduced maintenance compared to manual adjusters
• Electronic common rail injection: Precise fuel delivery reduces engine stress

It's not uncommon for Cummins diesel engines to exceed 400,000–500,000 kilometres with proper maintenance—a testament to their commercial-grade construction. For fleet operators, contractors, and owner-operators who depend on their trucks for income, this longevity represents a lower total cost of ownership and reduced downtime.

The 2026 Ram HD's powertrain warranty—120 months or 160,000 kilometres—provides additional peace of mind. This coverage reflects Ram's confidence in the Cummins diesel's reliability and durability.

Transmission and Drivetrain: Paired for Performance

The Cummins 6.7 L Turbo Diesel is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission engineered to handle the diesel's massive torque output while providing smooth, responsive shifts. The adaptive electronic control system optimizes shift points based on load, terrain, and driving conditions.

Transmission Features:

• Eight-speed automatic with Electronic Range Select (ERS) manual control
• Adaptive shift logic adjusts to towing and hauling conditions
• Electronic stability control with anti-rollover protection

The transmission's wide ratio spread allows the Cummins diesel to operate at lower RPM during highway cruising, reducing engine wear and improving fuel efficiency. When towing, the transmission holds lower gears longer to maintain momentum on grades, minimizing the need for aggressive throttle input.

Trim Availability and Configuration Options

The Cummins 6.7 L Turbo Diesel is available as an option across the 2026 Ram 2500 and 3500 HD lineup, including:

2026 Ram 2500 HD:

• Big Horn
• Black Express
• Warlock
• Laramie
• Rebel
• Limited
• Longhorn

2026 Ram 3500 HD:

• Big Horn
• Laramie
• Limited
• Longhorn

This availability allows buyers to select the trim level that matches their needs—from the value-focused Big Horn to the premium Longhorn—while maintaining access to the Cummins diesel's capability.

Comparing Diesel vs. Gasoline: Which Powertrain is Right for You?

Choosing between the Cummins diesel and the HEMI V-8 depends on your specific use case:

Choose the Cummins Diesel if:

• You regularly tow heavy trailers (15,000+ lbs)
• You haul maximum payload frequently
• You drive long distances with loads
• You prioritize fuel efficiency under load
• You plan to keep the truck for 200,000+ kilometres
• You need maximum fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing capacity

The HEMI V-8 may be sufficient if:

• You tow lighter recreational trailers (under 12,000 lbs)
• Most driving is unloaded daily commuting
• You prefer lower upfront cost
• You don't require maximum towing ratings

For operators in Fredericton who use their Ram HD for commercial purposes—construction, landscaping, equipment hauling, or long-distance towing—the Cummins diesel's advantages in torque, efficiency, and durability typically justify the additional investment.

Why the Cummins Diesel Remains the Pragmatic Choice

The 2026 Ram HD equipped with the 6.7 L Cummins Turbo Diesel delivers capability you can depend on day after day, year after year. From the engine's low-end torque delivery to its proven longevity, the Cummins diesel represents a pragmatic investment for operators who demand maximum performance and reliability.

From towing fifth-wheels across New Brunswick to hauling construction materials to job sites or operating a commercial fleet, the Cummins diesel provides the torque, efficiency, and durability to get the job done—without compromise.

Visit Summit Dodge in Fredericton to explore the 2026 Ram 2500 and 3500 HD lineup. Our team can help you configure the right truck for your towing and hauling needs, answer questions about powertrain options, and arrange a test drive so you can feel the Cummins diesel's torque delivery.