RAM Rampage: Finally, a Small Truck!
RAM recently announced that its all-new midsize pickup truck would soon be available in South America, but several media outlets have received information that the Rampage would also be sold in North America.
This is excellent news since it’s a segment that Ram has not filled since the departure of the Dakota in 2011. While its American rivals have completely dominated the category in recent years, it was about time that RAM did something, and it’s highly likely that its new small truck will make a splash upon its arrival in the North American market.
A First Introduction
The RAM Rampage was partially showcased in a short video on the American manufacturer’s Brazilian YouTube channel. The initial images reveal a strong aesthetic resemblance to the current RAM 1500, but also unique and distinct elements such as the taillights that pay a nice tribute to the American flag in their design.
Although the images in the model presentation video are quite dark, it’s clear that there is no separation between the cargo bed and the truck’s cabin, which suggests a unibody chassis frame. Ram may have chosen this approach for technical reasons and to offer a more interesting and competent final product. It wouldn’t be surprising if the Rampage features storage space that extends along its entire length, similar to the electric RAM.
Modern and Mysterious
There is only one image of the Rampage’s interior in the manufacturer’s presentation video, and it reveals a fully digital dashboard. Moreover, its design is quite attractive, and some important details can be seen. First, the instrumentation indicates that it is in sport mode, which suggests that the dashboard changes colors and possibly even design based on the driving mode. Next, we can see that the tachometer goes up to 6,000 revolutions per minute, which is a good indicator of what might be under the Rampage’s hood. Finally, it confirms that there will be at least one gasoline engine option since nothing suggests any form of electrification in this image.
Of course, RAM has not confirmed any details regarding the mechanical aspect of its truck. Therefore, all we can do at the moment is speculate about what might be hiding under the hood of this American small truck. The most popular rumors on the subject suggest a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This is quite logical since it is an engine found in most compact and midsize models within Stellantis. Who knows, maybe RAM has some other surprises in store at this level. In any case, patience will be required as we await the model’s official unveiling in the coming months. The American manufacturer should also confirm its availability in North America at the same time.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier