2025 Ram 1500 RHO: First Look

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Off-Road Ready
It’s sad but true – for the first time in more than 20 years, the HEMI V8 engine is no longer part of the Ram 1500 lineup. That also means the fearsome Ram TRX extreme off-road pickup truck has reached its end. But all is not lost – Ram will still offer a high-performance off-roader, and it is the Ram 1500 RHO. With a powerful Hurricane engine and impressive off-road chops, the Ram RHO is considerably more affordable than the outgoing TRX, but should still be a joy to drive off-road.

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Great Value
“The 2025 Ram 1500 RHO is the latest result of a relentless pursuit to engineer, design and deliver a truck that charges into the segment head down and horn up,” said Tim Kuniskis, Ram brand CEO – Stellantis. “All that we’ve learned from developing every truck in Ram’s legendary lineup has led us to the most capable light-duty pick-up truck offering the best value with more horsepower per dollar than any other off-road truck.”

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Under the Hood
The new Ram 1500 RHO is powered by the brand’s new Hurricane High Output Straight-Six Turbo (SST) that puts out 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission and electronic full-time four-wheel drive system. Ram claims this off-road truck will reach 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, with 100 mph coming up in 11.7 seconds.

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Off-Road Performance
The Ram 1500 RHO features a Borg-Warner full-time active transfer case with a 2.64:1 low range for rock crawling. A unique independent front suspension system is constructed from high-strength aluminum for better durability. It features tuned spring rates, a jounce bumper, and damping control that enhances performance and endurance. With its 35-inch off-road tires, the Ram 1500 RHO has a ground clearance of 11.8 inches.

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Performance Shocks
Bilstein Black Hawk e2 adaptive performance shocks have been tuned to provide a perfect balance between off-road capability and on-road handling. This is further improved with Ram’s Active Terrain Dynamics suspension management system.

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All-Terrain Capable
A Dana 60 Rear Axle comes standard with an electronic locking differential. Additionally, the rear suspension features adaptive damping and a 5-link coil system for improved comfort regardless of terrain. The Ram 1500 RHO boasts 40 percent more rear-wheel travel than the rest of the Ram truck lineup.

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Nice Sound
Helping the RHO stand out from the rest of the Ram truck lineup, the off-road truck gets a unique exhaust system that uses a low-restriction system with dual pipes for a powerful sound.

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Standout Looks
The RHO gets aggressive styling cues that match its impressive capabilities. The grille, bold RAM badge, skid plates, steel bumpers, and integrated hood scoop with LED clearance markers are unique to this special pickup. LED bi-functional projector headlights and LED marker lights are standard, as are the large composite fender flares that frame the 35-inch off-road tires.

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Rear View
Like the Ram Rebel, the RHO’s tailgate features a large RAM badge. LED tail lights and marker lights frame the tailgate, and oversized tow hooks and integrated 5-inch dual exhaust ports emphasize the truck’s performance.

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Capability
The Ram 1500 RHO can tow up to 8,380 pounds or carry a maximum payload of 1,520 pounds. It can also ford up to 32 inches of water.

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Inner Space
Although designed to handle rough terrain, the RHO looks more like a luxury truck inside. Its premium 12-way power front seats are trimmed in soft Natura Plus synthetic leather with perforated suede accents. Heating, ventilation, and even massage functions are available. An available Red Accent package adds a nice flair to the cabin.

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High Tech
The Ram 1500 RHO has a multitude of display screens, anchored by a vertical 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display in the center. Additionally, the driver gets a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and a 10.25-inch passenger screen provides additional information and functionality to the front passenger. A 10-inch full-color head-up display is also available, as is a dual-wireless phone charger.

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Pricing and Availability
With a base price of $69,995 (not including the $1,995 destination charge), the Ram 1500 RHO is expected to arrive in showrooms this fall. Production will take place at the Ram assembly plant in Sterling Heights, Michigan. Dealers are accepting orders now.

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