A so far unchallenged, high-performance Ford Raptor has finally got a worthy opponent, the 2021 Ram Rebel TRX. Ram hinted at the arrival of the Raptor’s challenger back in 2016 when showed off the Rebel TRX concept model. In the meantime, the brand introduced a thoroughly reworked, new-generation, half-ton Ram 1500 but the supercharged Hemi V-8-powered Rebel TRX is pretty close to what the concept model promised.
The hard-core Ram Rebel TRX mastered off-roading and it comes with tons of off-road goodies. The model’s styling is also impacted by its off-road DNA and it comes also with a pretty much luxurious and techy cabin.
The model has got upgraded chassis and sophisticated suspension setup. A mighty supercharged Hemi V-8 engine is under the hood making this model the most powerful half-ton truck at least until Ford introduces a V-8 powered Raptor version.
2021 Ram Rebel TRX: Design
The new 2021 Ram Rebel TRX is based on the half-ton Ram 1500 but the model underwent a serious transformation to become Ford Raptor’s challenger.
Ram’s engineers had to upgrade the standard Ram 1500’s frame and as Ram claims the new frame uses just 25 percent of the standard frame design. Engineers infused more high-strength steel into the Rebel’s frame mixing it with thicker and heavier rails. Thanks to the modifications, the TRX has much greater torsion rigidity and strength to handle serious off-road duties.
The new Ram Rebel TRX has also a menacing stance in accordance with its high-performance, off-road capability. The Ram Rebel TRX has a 6-inch wider track to provide additional stability mixed with a 0.8-inch longer wheelbase to open room for massive 35-inch tires. The truck comes also with the increased ground clearance measuring 11.8 inches mixed with 13-inch front suspension travel and 14-inch rear.
The Ram Rebel TRX gets also attention with more rugged bodywork and other visual enhancements. The model has a macular, scooped hood and signature Rebel-style grille. There is also a unique front bumper and additional underbody protection.
From the profile, there are wider and painted fender flares and side steps. The rear comes with a unique tailgate with specific stampings. The model includes also a bed-mounted spare tier handler.
Interior:
The interior of the mighty Rebel TRX gets also specific treatment.
The model builds on the in-cab design of the standard Ram 1500 with rich-looking materials, top-notch tech systems, and improved sound insulation.
The base version starts with the cloth upholstery and equipment based on the standard Rebel model. Available TR1 and TR2 packages bring more sophistication and style to the play. These options combine leather and suede upholstery with carbon fiber accents. There are also specific, flat-bottom steering wheel and paddle shifters. The model offers also heated and ventilated seats as well as a head-up display and digital rearview mirror.
Every Ram Rebel TRX gets a 12.0-inch center touchscreen with built-in navigation and Apple Car Play and Android Auto support. There is also SiriusXM radio and buyers can also get a 900-watt, 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
2021 Ram Rebel TRX: Performance
At the performance level, the 2021 Ram Rebel TRX gets a long list of off-road upgrades mixed with the supercharged V-8 power.
The Ram Rebel comes on the upgraded chassis and with a wider track and slightly longer wheelbase. The model has also a sophisticated suspension setup with Bilstein Blackhawk E2 adaptive shock absorbers at all four corners. The model gets also new front and rear springs with 13 inches of front and 14 inches of rear suspension travel. The rear suspension setup includes also redesigned hard mounting points.
The power for the mighty Ram Rebel TRX provides a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine good for 702 hp and torque of 650 lb-ft. The engine works in the mix with the high-performance ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. The power goose on all four wheels via a part-time four-wheel-drive system. The truck employs also an upgraded transfer case, Dana 60 rear axle, and an electronic locking rear differential. The TRX is also the first Ram truck with launch control with launch assist. The model can tow up to 8, 100 pounds.
2021 Ram Rebel TRX: Arrival, Price
The 2021 Ram Rebel TRX will go on sale later in the year in the Super Cab configuration only. The model will be available from $60, 995 plus $1, 695 for the destination charge. The price will go over $90, 000 for the most exclusive version.
The 2022 Rebel TRX version will get a small facelift and we can expect some new interior features. More about this facelifted version you can find at 2022trucks.com.