2006 Dodge Ram 2500 Laramie Package (5.9L Diesel) $16,500

The heavy-duty Dodge Ram 2500 offers serious diesel power, stout suspensions and a well-built, functional interior -- all of which make it an impressive package for hard-core truck users. This full-size truck was an immediate hit thanks to its combination of big-rig styling, powerful engine lineup and carlike interior. The heavy-duty models -- the 2500 and 3500 -- were particularly popular with contractors who appreciated the trucks' rugged nature. Go for the huge Mega Cab model. To make it Mega, Dodge takes uses the extended 160.5-inch wheelbase frame and adds a short bed to allow 20 more inches for the oversized cabin. This makes for a lot of "biggest" and "first" claims for the Mega Cab: The largest, longest cab in its class, at 142.2 cubic feet and 111.1 inches, respectively. Largest interior cargo volume of any full-size pickup, largest second-row legroom, largest rear-door open angle, at 85 degrees; and the first ever reclining rear seats, which go from a 22-degree seatback angle to 37 degrees. Overall, the 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 is an excellent all-around heavy-duty truck. Particularly this year, with the introduction of the Mega Cab model, it would be our choice for a heavy-duty truck over competing domestic offerings. 2006 Ram 2500, Dodge adds a new body style called Mega Cab. It features a 20-inch-longer cabin than the Quad Cab to provide best-in-class interior room.