Ask TFLtruck: 2017 GMC HD or 2017 Ram HD: Buy Now or Wait For the Next Upgrade?

2016-Chevy-Silverado-3500-vs-Ram-3500-Towing-MPG

Today’s question comes from Andrew B. It touches a very important point that applies not just to pickup trucks, but any piece of technology or machinery. Should I buy the current model, a model that is just about to hit the market, or wait for the next upgrade – which will surely be better / more powerful? Should I be an early adopter, or go the tried-and-true route?

Here is Andrew’s question:

A few questions as I consider a new truck: either RAM HD 2500 Cummins or GMC Sierra HD 2500. Both crew cab 4WD with luxury trim (Denali and Longhorn are most likely).
I have a couple questions about each option.
GMC HD:
1. With the new L5P, what improvements did the Allison get to go along with added power?
2. Would you hold off on getting the first year of a new engine?
RAM HD:
1. How reliable can the 68RFE be?  It gets a bad rap but is it true?
2. If I go RAM should I wait for 2018 when they might potentially release a new version of the Cummins with more power to match competition?
2017 chevy silverado hd def spy 3500 2500 tank capacity volume
2017 Chevy Silverado HD prototypes
Here are a few comments. The 6-speed Allison transmission which is paired to the new 2017 L5P 6.6L Duramax V8 saw just minor tweaks to handle the extra power (according to Chevrolet). The L5P engine is nearly all new and produces 445 hp and 910 lb-ft of torque, however the Allison transmission did not need to see major upgrades. GM has been working on and testing the L5P for several years. Yes, there will likely be some new problems with a new engine, as there usually are. However, I have relatively high confidence in the L5P right from the start.
2018 ram heavy duty
2018 Ram HD prototypes
We generally do not comment on reliability, as we do not test most trucks for a long period of time. However, we have heard of issues with the 68RFE transmission, and a 6.4L HEMI Ram HD with the transmission struggled up the Ike Gauntlet a couple of years ago. That’s not to say that any problems have not already been resolved or that all of these transmissions have problems. However, the Aisin 6-speed transmission has a very good reputation.
At this time, we know very little about the next upgrade to the Ram HD and its Cummins power.
What do you guys think? Please help Andrew out.