It’s that time of year again: State Fair season in Texas, the leading state in truck purchases. This means truck manufacturers are eager to unveil their latest special editions designed specifically for Texans. Introducing the impressive 2018 Ram Heavy Duty 2500/3500 Laramie Longhorn Ram Rodeo Edition.
This premium workhorse comes equipped with a standard 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine, delivering 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque. Alternatively, buyers can opt for the 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo-diesel I-6, which generates an impressive 370 horsepower and 800 pound-feet of torque. The Ram Rodeo Edition also features a host of luxurious amenities and intelligent trailer towing options, complete with prominently displayed Texas-themed badging. And we mean big badging.
Jim Morrison, head of Ram Trucks, remarked, “The 2018 Heavy Duty Longhorn Ram Rodeo Edition is the ultimate combination of capability, refinement, and towing features.”
Focusing on truck performance, the Rodeo edition includes standard features like the 5-inch gooseneck and fifth-wheel towing preparation package. It’s also equipped with a bed camera, allowing drivers to view guiding lines on the infotainment screen for hassle-free trailer connections—making it easier to hook up without needing external assistance.
For superior ride quality and load leveling, the truck comes with Ram’s rear air suspension as standard. Additionally, skid plates safeguard the vehicle’s underside for those who take the “Rodeo” aspect seriously.
The Ram Rodeo is based on the Longhorn trim, featuring luxury throughout. The cabin incorporates high-quality materials like wood and steel, with cowboy-style buckles even adorning the rear seat map pockets. This robust interior is complemented by 20-inch aluminum wheels with optional painted pockets for the Ram 2500/3500 single-rear-wheel models, while dual-rear-wheel trucks receive 17-inch polished aluminum wheels. Longhorn badging embellishes the striking exterior, including a tailgate badge that seems to stretch from El Paso to Houston.
Morrison expressed confidence in the vehicle’s interior, stating, “I would put our interior up against any other vehicle, not just trucks,” during an interview with The Drive at the State Fair of Texas.
The Texas Auto Writers Association has recognized Ram with the Luxury Truck of Texas award for two consecutive years, affirming its popularity among ranchers and farmers in Texas.
Set to be available in the third quarter of this year, the Ram Rodeo will start at $60,790 for the 2500 model and $71,260 for the 3500 model, not including a $1,695 destination fee.
.
