What is the towing capacity of a RAM 1500?

Most Australian-converted RAM 1500 models are rated at 4,500 kg braked towing capacity (4,200 kg on the Limited Hurricane HO) with a 450 kg maximum tow ball download, against a GVM of 3,450–3,521 kg and a GCM of about 7,710 kg (7,285 kg on the Limited Hurricane HO). Always confirm the figures on your own compliance plate and owner's manual, because ratings vary by model year, engine and the remanufacturing batch.

Is a RAM 1500 better than a Ford Ranger for towing a 3.5 tonne caravan?

For a genuinely loaded 3.5 t van, yes — on paper. The Ranger's 6,400 kg GCM leaves roughly 2,900 kg for the loaded ute once a 3,500 kg ATM van is hooked up, which most touring Rangers exceed. The RAM's 7,711 kg GCM leaves about 4,200 kg, which is more than its own 3,505 kg GVM, so GVM becomes the binding limit rather than GCM.

Does a RAM 1500 have more payload than a HiLux?

No — usually less. A RAM 1500 typically has about 700–900 kg of payload because its kerb weight is around 2,550–2,750 kg, while a HiLux or D-Max offers 885–1,000 kg. The American pickup's advantage is combination mass and tow ball rating, not tray payload.

What licence do I need to drive a RAM 1500 in Australia?

A standard car licence covers a vehicle up to 4,500 kg GVM, and RAM 1500 variants sit at roughly 3,450–3,800 kg GVM, so no special licence is required. Heavier RAM 2500 and 3500 models can exceed 4,500 kg GVM and may require a light rigid licence.

Can a RAM 1500 tow 4,500 kg within its limits?

Only with a light load in the cab and tray. On a 2026 Laramie Sport, the 7,711 kg GCM leaves 3,211 kg for the pickup once a 4,500 kg ATM trailer is hitched, about 570 kg over its 2,642 kg kerb weight. GVM is tighter: a 450 kg tow ball comes out of its ~860 kg payload, leaving about 410 kg for people, gear and accessories.

Is the 450 kg tow ball limit on a RAM 1500 a real advantage?

Yes. Heavy Australian off-road caravans frequently run 300–400 kg of tow ball mass, which is at or over the 350 kg limit of a mid-size ute. The RAM's 450 kg rating gives real headroom, though that mass still consumes the pickup's payload.

What are the running-cost trade-offs of an American pickup?

Higher purchase price, higher fuel use (especially petrol V8 models), a larger footprint that limits parking and some off-road tracks, and a smaller service network than a Ranger or HiLux. The pay-off is a stronger combination rating for heavy, full-time touring.

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Guide

RAM 1500 Towing Capacity vs Mid-Size Utes: Which Really Tows a 3.5 Tonne Caravan?

American full-size pickups like the RAM 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado are now a common sight on Australian highways towing heavy off-road caravans. This guide compares their towing capacity, GCM, payload and tow ball limits against the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Max — and shows with real numbers why a 3,500 kg braked rating on a mid-size ute often can't pull a fully loaded 3.5 tonne van within every weight limit.