The identification of RAM with the world of pickups it is total. In fact, it is the only brand that only manufactures that, trucks. But the case of the new Rampage is quite particular, since it is a product developed and manufactured by and for Mercosur. In some way, it reflects the importance that the region has in the strategy of the brand and the Stellantis Group.
This new truck was unveiled in the middle of last year and in Clarion we had a first contact. Now, at the same time that its range was confirmed in the Argentine market, we share a second driving experience, much more extensive and profound, with what should be the entry into the range of this pickup: the Rebel version, which has a point focused on off road.
The compact pickup truck segment turned out to be a success. In any market where models such as the Fiat Toro or the Ford Maverick, among others, arrived, they have proven to achieve great public acceptance. In ours this is enhanced more, since the truck, regardless of its size, is already It is naturalized for everyday urban use.
That is why the arrival of Rampage opens the door for many consumers to have RAM, both in terms of price and dimensions. The American brand is a company desired by users, so much so that in Brazil, for example, it is considered a premium company, despite being a pickup truck.
What is it like and what does it bring?
The new Rampage will be offered in Argentina in two of its three configurations: Rebelmore focused on off-road use, and R/T, with a setup more oriented towards sporty track handling. The Laramie variant, which is sold in Brazil and has a more refined style, will not be available in the country for the moment.
The two options that will be marketed in the country will have the same mechanical assembly: 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with 272 horsepower, 9-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. But between the two there are big differences in style and set-up.
This new truck is built on the platform Small Widethe same one on which Stellantis Group models such as the Fiat Toro and the Jeep Compass and Commander are manufactured.
The brand reported that numerous changes were made for this pickup, so much so that the monocoque structure received 60% renewed and redesigned parts. Also the use of high and ultra resistance steels is superior than in other models.
The version driven in this test was the Rebel, which in its body has a majority of black plastics on the nose, bumpers and sides. Its figure conveys the idea that is also seen in the RAM 1500 Rebel.
It is inevitable to see “the doors of the Bull” in this model, but it must be recognized that rides very different from the Fiat truckboth for the engine, as well as for the changes in the chassis and for the set-up.
Under everyday use conditions, its ride is very comfortable, with a good ability to isolate road imperfections. Unlike the medium “chatas”, It doesn’t bounce as much and that makes it much more comfortable..
On the road, its great dynamic behavior, supported by the independent rear suspension, generates a lot of confidence in the driver and it is possible to face fast corners without having to slow down.
Off the asphalt it is very surprising, since it is not a 4×4 model with a transfer case, but rather it has an on-demand all-wheel drive system, that is, it distributes the engine’s power according to the situation and condition of the road.
The first 4×4 experience had been on a track, with climbs and ravines that required axle crossings and considerable demands. Over there It seemed solid, robust and with the necessary engine response to get out of each situation with ease.
The second, however, was more of a sand drive, much of it on very fine sand. However, the Rampage moved comfortably whenever the right foot called for power. The tires chosen for this model had a lot to do with it: All Terrain in measurements 235/65 R17.
The only thing that may be uncomfortable about handling this truck is the abruptness with which the gearbox can react when a lot of acceleration is requested. The power and torque are high and the number of gear ratios are many. The response is fast, but produces strong jerks.
The interior is predominantly black, with leather coverings (not imitation leather). Includes two large screens; one that acts as an instrument panel that has a size of 10.3 inches and good image quality, in addition to several display options.
The other screen is the one on the center console, which is larger (12”) and that allows you to divide the information into several sections. For example, it is possible to use 2/3 of the screen with the Android Auto or Apple CarPlay connectivity information and the remaining third with a specific function of the truck.
An interesting detail of the equipment. The wireless charger for cell phone has air conditioning cooling to prevent the device from raising temperature.
The rest of the equipment is very high, even in driving assistance systems. The downside of the interior is the space in the rear seats, which is less used than in the Ford Maverick, for example.
At the moment there are no prices but there is a clue. In Brazil, the cheapest Rampage (Rebel) costs more than the most expensive Maverick (Hybrid). And yet it is a phenomenon.
Datasheet
Wheelbase 2,994 mm
Load capacity 750 kg
55 liter fuel tank
Power 272 CV and 5,200 rpm
Torque 392 Nm a 3.000 rpm
Automatic transmission 9 speeds
Maximum speed 210 km/h
Acceleration 0-100 km/h 7.1 seconds
Average consumption 9 L/100 km
equipment
ABS brakes and stability control
Front side airbags
Driver knee airbags
adaptive cruise control
Autonomous emergency brake
Lane keeping system
10.3” digital instrument panel
12.3” multimedia center
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay with wireless connection
wireless phone charger
6 USB ports (3 type C)