While Cummins engines are primarily known for their robust diesel power in heavy-duty trucks and commercial vehicles, they have also powered specific consumer-level pickup trucks. The most prominent and widely recognized application of Cummins engines in a "car" context (broadly interpreted to include light-duty and heavy-duty pickups) is within the Ram truck lineup.
Ram Heavy-Duty Pickups
Cummins diesel engines are a hallmark of Ram's heavy-duty truck series, offering unmatched torque and towing capabilities.
- Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy-Duty Pickups: These models are the most common vehicles to feature Cummins engines from the factory. Drivers of these trucks highly value the Cummins powerplant for its reliability and power, with nearly 70% of Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy-Duty pickup owners choosing the Cummins engine. This strong loyalty is further supported by programs that acknowledge owners who reach high mileage milestones, such as 100,000 miles or more, on their Cummins-powered vehicles.
The engines found in these Ram trucks typically include variations of the 6.7-liter inline-six Cummins Turbo Diesel, known for its longevity and performance under strenuous conditions.
Other Notable Consumer Applications
While Ram trucks are the most consistent users, Cummins has collaborated with other manufacturers for specific models:
- Nissan Titan XD (2016-2020): Nissan offered a 5.0-liter V8 Cummins Turbo Diesel engine in its Titan XD pickup truck. This engine was designed to bridge the gap between traditional half-ton and heavy-duty trucks, providing enhanced towing and hauling capacity without the full bulk of a heavy-duty rig.
- Foton Tunland (International Markets): In some international markets, the Foton Tunland pickup truck has been available with Cummins ISF series diesel engines, particularly the 2.8-liter and 3.8-liter variants.
- Aftermarket and Specialty Builds: Cummins engines are also a popular choice for aftermarket swaps and custom builds, where enthusiasts or businesses integrate them into various vehicles, including older trucks, SUVs, and even some highly modified passenger cars for unique projects. However, these are not factory-installed applications.
Cummins Engine Characteristics in Automotive Use
Cummins engines designed for light-duty and heavy-duty pickup applications are engineered to deliver:
- High Torque: Essential for towing heavy loads and navigating challenging terrains.
- Durability: Built to withstand demanding work cycles and provide long service life.
- Fuel Efficiency: While powerful, modern Cummins diesels are also designed with efficiency in mind for their class.
- Reliability: A key reason for their widespread trust among truck owners.
In summary, while Cummins is a diverse power solutions provider, its presence in "cars" primarily centers on heavy-duty pickup trucks like the Ram 2500 and 3500, with a few other notable, albeit less common, applications.
