Table of Contents Show
If you want to see a civil discussion turn into a dumpster fire, ask truck enthusiasts which 3500 is the best. When hauling, truck owners want to know they’re secure. But which 3500 is up to the task? Let’s find out.
Which 3500 Truck is the Best?
Brand loyalty can play a significant role in how truck owners respond to this question. It’s not always a bad thing to be loyal to a brand. The manufacturers will undoubtedly love you for it. However, it does not necessarily give you the best information.
Deciding which 3500 truck is the best will often come down to your specific needs and preferences. How you plan to use your 3500 truck shapes what you’re looking for and expect from a truck.
1. Dodge Ram 3500
The Dodge Ram 3500 enjoys popularity among not only RVers but anyone who needs to tow. Dodge has put out several excellent trucks in the Ram line, and it doesn’t look like they’re planning to stop soon. They continue to push the envelope in technology and engineering.
Price
The Ram 3500 starts at $35,795. Prices fluctuate based not only on location and availability but also on any upgrades you include.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The Ram 3500’s 6,570 to 7,680 pounds of payload capacity sound too good to be true, but they aren’t. The truck boasts an equally impressive 18,210 to 37,100 pounds of towing capability. The precise numbers vary depending on which engine you choose.
Specs and Exterior Options
You’ll ride level and comfortable when you upgrade to the auto-level air suspension system. It helps eliminate the squat often seen when towing heavier loads.
The truck includes luxury features like power running boards, LED headlamps, and the RamBox Cargo Management System. The RamBox uses previously overlooked space on the side of the bed to provide two lockable and drainable storage bins. The 115-volt power outlet and remote access make this a convenient addition to your Ram 3500.
Interior Features
You and your passengers will ride in comfort and luxury while inside the Ram 3500. The 12-inch touchscreen built into the dash allows easy access to key features within the truck. Feel like you’re piloting a private jet in the comfortable seats with plenty of legroom for all. If the outside storage compartments aren’t enough, there’s an additional eight inches of storage located behind the rear seats.
2. GMC Sierra 3500
The GMC Sierra 3500 is making a splash in the towing market, and for a good reason. The impressive capabilities of this truck earn it a spot on the list of the best 3500 trucks.
Price
The GMC Sierra 3500, like many vehicles, comes with an abundance of options that can alter its price. It starts at $37,700. A few upgrades can take a $38,995 gas truck and turn it into a $52,105 diesel machine.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The Sierra boasts a strong towing capacity of up to 36,000 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 7,442 pounds. To get the max capacity out of this truck, you’ll need to add some extras such as a gooseneck hitch.
Specs and Exterior Options
The all-terrain wheels can withstand rocks, mud, and whatever else you throw at them. With the side bed step, you’ll no longer have difficulties accessing equipment or gear stored in the bed of your truck. Light your way with LED headlamps, as well as available cargo bed lighting. In addition, the MultiPro tailgate improves on loading, unloading, and accessing cargo.
Interior Features
The interior finds the balance between comfort and safety. Upgrading to a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel can ease the cold bite of winter.
You can choose walnut, dark walnut, or jet black for the interior. With a spacious center console and storage behind and under the rear seats, you’ll have plenty of room for tools and camping gear.
3. Chevrolet Silverado 3500
Price
A Silverado 3500 starts at $35,300. Options such as the type of bed can change the end price dramatically. A few upgrades to the engine, drivetrain, and interior and a Silverado 3500 can exceed $80,000.
Towing and Payload Capacity
With a towing capacity of up to 36,000 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 7,442 pounds, the Silverado 3500 can really haul. It also has a max torque of 910 lb. ft.
Specs and Exterior Options
You’ll no longer have to climb up on the tire or tailgate to reach your bed thanks to the steps on this truck. The optional bedside storage boxes can hold tools, cables, and other important items. The spray-on liner will protect your investment for years to come.
Interior Features
The Silverado’s multiple cameras ensure you’ll never have a blind spot. They can assist with backing up, parking, or navigation. If the cameras aren’t enough, the state-of-the-art hitching assist system will make hitching and unhitching easier than ever before. Feel secure thanks to lane change, rear cross-traffic, and blind zone alerts.
4. Ford F-350
The Ford F-350 epitomizes the quality and character Ford is known for. They’ve taken everything consumers are asking for and jammed it into one of the most durable and capable trucks on the market.
Price
The F-350 starts at $35,745 for a regular cab with an extended bed. That price increases quickly with different options. The various trim packages offer value or luxury but at a price.
Review these differences carefully when choosing a truck. For example, the value XL package does not include heated seats, remote start, or power seats.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The Ford F-350 can tow 12,000 to 20,000 pounds. It has a payload capacity of 3,893 to 7,033 pounds. Look carefully at options to see just what kind of capacity you’re getting.
Specs and Exterior Options
The Ford F-350 offers a few different engines producing from 385 to 475 horsepower. It’ll go from 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds. You can choose a classic color or something a little brighter.
Interior Features
An eight-inch navigation screen provides easy access to all the information and entertainment you need. Your electronics will stay charged up with multiple USB charge ports. Or you can add on a wireless charging pad.
Whether you’re looking for comfort or function, the Ford F-350 does an incredible job of putting it all into one vehicle.\
How to Choose the Best 3500 Truck for Your Needs
The best 3500 truck depends on your needs. Whether it’s mental or on paper, creating a list can be a helpful exercise when making this decision.
Think through all the possible ways you plan to use your truck. Are you planning to tow occasionally, semi-occasionally, or full-time? What size loads do you want to carry? What elevation changes do you face where you’ll be towing? These are all important questions to ask yourself before picking out a new truck.
The debate over the best 3500 truck won’t end anytime soon. Every year manufacturers flex their muscles to attract customers. Making an informed decision will get you the best results for your needs. Which 3500 truck do you wish was parked in your garage?
