There's a big reason why the RAMs carry a ridiculous weight rating now than what they did pre 2013. The frame is heavily beefed up and boxed compared to the pre 2013 frames. That's also the reason why oil changes are an exercise in aggravation. Lots of upgrades on the 2013 and up 3500's (2500's got the upgrade in 2014). Suspension closely matches Ford in the front as well with a 3 link radius arm suspension versus the old 5 link setup with the smaller locating arms. Availability of the Aisin is another plus (has lower 1st and 2nd gear ratios than the 68RFE making for greater startability).
Along with the frame upgrades, there's roughly a 10% to 15% improvement in fuel economy over the non-DEF vehicles.