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Detroit 3 to implement delayed unified towing standards for 2015

Car buyers have a responsibility to be well-informed consumers. That's not always a very simple task, but some guidelines are self-evident. If you live in a very snowy climate, you generally know a Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro might not be as viable a vehicle choice as an all-wheel drive Explorer or Traverse, for example. If you want a fuel-efficient car, it's generally a good idea to know the difference between a diesel and a hybrid. But what if it's kind of tough to be an informed consumer? What if the information you need is more difficult to come by, or worse, based on different standards for each vehicle? Well, in that case, you might be a truck shopper. For years, customers of light-duty pickups have had to suffer through different ratings of towing capacities for each brand. For 2015 model year trucks, though, that will no longer be a problem. According to Automotive News, General Motors, Ford and Chrysler Group have announced that starting with next year's models, a common standard will be used to measure towing capacity. The Detroit Three will join Toyota, which adopted the Society of Automotive Engineers' so-called SAE J2807 standards way back in 2011. The standard was originally supposed to be in place for MY2013, but concerns that it would lower the overall stated capacity for trucks led Detroit automakers to pass. Ford originally passed, claiming it'd wait until its new F-150 was launched to adopt the new standards, leading GM and Ram to follow suit. Nissan, meanwhile, has said it will adopt the new standards as its vehicles are updated, meaning the company's next-generation Titan should adhere to the same tow ratings as its competitors. While the adoption of SAE J2807 will be helpful for light-duty customers, those interested in bigger trucks will still be left with differing standards. There is no sign of the new tow standards being adopted for the heavy-duty market.

Ram 2500 HD video shows off new engine, rear suspension

We've already had a chance to drive the 2014 Ram 3500 HD, but the big news for the 2014 Ram Heavy Duty lineup might be centered around the three-quarter-ton 2500 model. Chrysler has released a new video highlighting the new features of the 2014 Ram 2500 HD, including its new optional engine and new rear suspension components.
The video starts by showing off the Ram's new 410-horsepower 6.4-liter Hemi V8 and then gives us an up-close look at the coil spring, multi-link rear suspension - one of the truck's most important upgrades aimed at delivering a smooth ride. In addition to this coil suspension, the Ram 2500 HD will also be available with a rear air suspension system, which Chrysler says will optimize the truck's hauling abilities with better load leveling and trailer towing.
Scroll down for the walkaround video of the 2500 HD from Chrysler as well as the original press release breaking down all of the truck's new-for-2014 features.

Ram 2500 Off-Road Pack targets Ford's FX4, Chevy's Z71

If you were a Ford or Chevrolet customer looking for a heavy duty pickup with some improved off-road chops, the process is relatively simple: tick the box for the FX4 or Z71 packages and be on your merry way. These packages are simple affairs, adding upgraded shocks, underbody protection, and unique wheels alongside a slew of cosmetic improvements. Now, Ram is getting in on the game. Making its debut at the Chicago Auto Show, a new 4x4 Off-Road Package will be offered on the 2500 model regardless of engine, bed length, or trim level. The only restriction is cab size – you'll need to order the Crew or Mega Cab in order to get the new option pack. Despite being a new package, Ram's formula is more or less the same as that used by the FX4 and Z71. Mechanical changes are limited to new Bilstein monotube shocks (Ford turns to Rancho, while the shock absorbers on Chevy's Z71 are unbranded) and a standard limited-slip differential (also offered on the Big Horn and Lone Star trims). Firestone supplies the LT tires, which look to strike a balance between off-road ability and on-road comfort, while there's the normal array of underbody protection. And like Ford and Chevy, Ram has fit a prominent decal on the rear fender. Pricing isn't finalized yet, but Ram specifically calls the 4x4 Off-Road Pack "a value-priced option." That'd make a lot of sense, considering how Ford and Chevy have priced similar equipment packs. Neither the FX4 nor the Z71 pack are high-priced options, with the former ringing up at $295 on the F-250 and the latter maxing out at $620, depending on which Silverado HD you chose. Look for the Ram 2500 4x4 Off-Road Pack to hit dealers during the third quarter of 2016. Related Video: Ram Truck Brand Announces New Ram 2500 Heavy Duty 4x4 Off-road Package New Ram 2500 4x4 Off-road Package designed for customers who need essential off-road upgrades combined with 3/4 -ton pushing, pulling and hauling capabilities Part of "America's Off-road Truck Leader" lineup Features stability control upgrades, all-terrain tires and rugged exterior appearance New package includes limited-slip differential, underbody protection and Bilstein shocks Available "RamBox Holster" rack accessory for RamBox-equipped trucks February 11, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Ram Truck capitalizes on a core piece of the 3/4 -ton segment with new Ram 2500 4x4 Off-road Package, which includes a list of must-have upgrades for the occasional off-roader.