2019 Ram 1500 Rebel

The Rebel variant of the Ram 1500 is an off-road-focused half-ton pickup. It's the most rough-and-ready Ram pickup model short of the 2500 Power Wagon.

Overview

While the previous 1500 Rebel came with air suspension, the latest model ships standard with a full steel suspension and an inch of additional ground clearance. Ram notes buyers can order air suspension at an extra cost. The Rebel nonetheless comes with a model-specific suspension geometry that helps it hold its own off the beaten path.

It's not all about suspension tweaks. The Rebel boasts 33-inch Goodyear tires wrapped around 18-inch alloy wheels. Ram also added an electronic rear differential and hill descent control technology.

The Rebel immediately stands out from the standard 1500 with a model-specific front end characterized by a black grille with an immense "RAM" badge. It also gets a model-specific front bumper to maximize its approach angle and a skid plate to protect key mechanical components.

Interior upgrades (including Rebel-only trim and a more durable type of upholstery) round out the changes.

Technical specifications

The standard engine is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 equipped with the eTorque system. It delivers 305 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 269 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm.

Next up is, of course, a V8. The 5.7-liter Hemi ups the ante with 395 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 410 pound-feet of torque at 3,950 rpm.

Finally, Ram offers an electrified version of the 5.7-liter Hemi with its eTorque system. It doesn't improve horsepower or peak torque but it delivers 130 pound-feet of torque at launch, helping the Ram get up to speed faster.

Every variant regardless of engine comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.

Key competitors

Buyers in the market for a Ram Rebel can also look at the Ford F-150 Raptor. It's a much more extreme, capable, and expensive truck. Those willing to look at a smaller truck can also consider the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2.