Dodge RAM 1500 TRX

The Dodge Ram 1500 TRX is a high-performance off-road pickup truck introduced by Ram Trucks (a division of Stellantis, formerly Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) in 2020. It is known for its powerful supercharged V8 engine, extreme off-road capability, and aggressive styling. Often referred to as the "apex predator" of trucks, the TRX was designed to compete with high-performance trucks like the Ford F-150 Raptor, but it offers significantly more power and capability.

Overview

• Manufacturer: Ram Trucks (Stellantis)
• Model: Ram 1500 TRX
• Years: 2020–present
• Class: Full-size high-performance pickup truck
• Engine: 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 (same as the Dodge Hellcat)
• Horsepower: 702 hp
• Torque: 650 lb-ft
• 0-60 mph: Around 4.5 seconds
• Top Speed: Approximately 118 mph
• Price: Starts at around $85,000, depending on options

Key Features and Specifications

1. Engine and Performance

The TRX is powered by the 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine, borrowed from the Dodge Hellcat lineup, making it one of the most powerful production trucks available:

• Horsepower: 702 hp.
• Torque: 650 lb-ft.
• 0-60 mph: The TRX can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, an astonishing figure for a truck that weighs more than 6,400 lbs.
• Transmission: The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission (TorqueFlite 8HP95), delivering quick shifts for both on-road and off-road driving.
• Off-Road Capability: Despite its high performance on pavement, the TRX is built for extreme off-road use, with 11.8 inches of ground clearance, 35-inch off-road tires, and a BorgWarner 48-13 transfer case with selectable 4WD modes.

2. Off-Road Chassis and Suspension

The TRX is equipped with an advanced off-road suspension system to handle tough terrains and high-speed desert running:

• Suspension: It features Bilstein Black Hawk e2 adaptive performance shocks, which provide optimal damping for both high-speed off-road performance and smoother on-road comfort.
• Ground Clearance: With 11.8 inches of ground clearance and 13 inches of front suspension travel, the TRX is well-equipped to tackle rugged trails and challenging environments.
• Skid Plates: The underbody is reinforced with skid plates to protect key components, including the front axle, transfer case, fuel tank, and rear differential, from harsh terrain.

3. Exterior Design

The Ram TRX is designed to look as aggressive as it performs, with a wide stance, massive tires, and bold design cues:

• Body: The TRX is 8 inches wider than a standard Ram 1500, thanks to its flared fenders that accommodate the 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory all-terrain tires.
• Hood: It features a functional hood scoop that feeds cool air into the supercharged engine, while integrated heat extractors help manage engine temperatures during hard driving.
• Lighting: LED headlights and taillights, along with an aggressive grille design featuring the RAM lettering, give the truck a distinctive presence.
• Bed: The TRX also comes with a 5-foot-7-inch bed, and buyers can opt for accessories like RamBoxes for additional storage in the truck bed’s side compartments.

4. Interior

The TRX’s interior is a mix of luxury, comfort, and rugged utility:

• Technology: The centerpiece is a 12-inch Uconnect infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and a customizable display. The TRX also includes a Heads-Up Display (HUD), which is a first for Ram trucks.
• Luxury Options: Buyers can opt for premium leather and suede seats, as well as carbon fiber trim and a Harman Kardon sound system with 19 speakers.
• Practicality: Despite its performance focus, the TRX remains a highly practical truck with a spacious interior and plenty of storage options.

5. Performance Technology

The TRX comes equipped with a range of performance-enhancing technology to maximize its on-road and off-road capabilities:

• Launch Control: The TRX features a launch control system, allowing drivers to maximize acceleration from a standing start by optimizing power and torque delivery to the ground.
• Performance Pages: Drivers can access real-time performance data via the Performance Pages system on the Uconnect screen, showing information like G-forces, lap times, and engine data.
• Selectable Drive Modes: The TRX offers several drive modes, including Sport, Snow, Tow, Auto, and Baja, which adjust throttle response, suspension settings, and transmission shifts based on driving conditions.

6. Towing and Payload

Despite being a high-performance off-roader, the TRX remains capable of handling traditional truck duties:

• Towing Capacity: Up to 8,100 pounds, which is slightly lower than other Ram 1500 models due to the added weight of the off-road equipment.
• Payload Capacity: 1,310 pounds, sufficient for most light-duty hauling needs.

7. Safety Features

The TRX is equipped with an array of advanced safety features, including:

• Adaptive Cruise Control.
• Blind-spot monitoring.
• Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking.
• 360-degree camera system for better visibility in off-road conditions or tight spaces.