The revamped 2019 Ram 1500 leads the pack in the full-size pickup market, poised for strong sales as American demand for trucks remains high. Reports from 5thGenRams.com suggest Ram has even more excitement planned with the upcoming Ram Rebel TRX, a formidable competitor to the Ford F-150 Raptor. This new pickup is expected to feature both a supercharged Hellcat engine and a naturally aspirated 7.0-liter V8.
The 6.2-liter Hellcat V8 is well-known, delivering an impressive 707 horsepower, which has become a defining benchmark for Fiat-Chrysler and a symbol of modern American performance. The inclusion of this engine in the Ram Rebel TRX would make it the most powerful production pickup available. With a torque rating of 650 pound-feet, this engine would excel at navigating off-road challenges. While the TRX concept unveiled in 2016 showcased a toned-down version of the Hellcat engine, insiders have informed 5thGenRams that engineers are now focused on maximizing its full capabilities for the production model.
In a surprising twist, reports are also indicating the development of a 7.0-liter V8, especially noteworthy given the industry’s current shift towards turbocharged and hybrid engines. This new engine, internally codenamed “Banshee” after the McDonnell F2H Banshee jet fighters, is expected to produce approximately 520 horsepower and 525 pound-feet of torque. Trucks equipped with this significant new V8 may be differentiated under the name Ram Rebel TR.
It’s important to approach this information with caution, as the anticipated release of the Ram Rebel TRX and TR is not expected until 2021, and circumstances could shift in that timeframe. Speculation about a Hellcat-powered Ram has been circulating for some time, with Fiat-Chrysler known for integrating this engine into unexpected models, like the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. The buzz surrounding the TRX concept only adds to the intrigue, especially with a notable Easter egg in the 2019 Ram Rebel’s promotional photos featuring a clock set to 7:07.
Meanwhile, the Ford F-150 Raptor remains the dominant player in the rugged pickup segment. While the latest Rebel offers enhanced capabilities compared to its predecessor, it still lacks the performance to rival the Raptor in intense terrains like Baja. A more robust model powered by a Hellcat engine would certainly make a bold statement, possibly prompting Ford to reintroduce V8 engines to the Raptor.
However, Fiat-Chrysler has remained tight-lipped about future plans. A representative from Ram Trucks declined to comment when asked for more details, leaving enthusiasts to speculate for the time being..
