Ram claims top spot in production pickup power, capability

Calling it the “apex predator of the truck world,” Ram has unveiled the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX pickup, which it claims “is engineered to handle the most punishing conditions with extreme capability and durability, significantly outperforming every other truck.”

Obviously, adds Ram, the TRX “sets new benchmarks for power and performance among half-ton pickups.” Consider: 702 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque from its supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8, which Rams says will propel the full-size truck to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, to 100 mph in 10.5 seconds, through the quarter-mile at 108 mph (in 12.9 seconds) and to a top speed of 118 mph.

Only 702 units of a special Launch Edition TRX — a figure matching the truck’s horsepower rating — will be offered for the 2021 model year, Ram added. Launch Edition trucks will get special Anvil Gray paint and red and brushed-aluminum interior trim and other special features.

The truck is built on a new frame, has an 8-speed automatic transmission, full-time active transfer case, Dana 60 solid rear axle, and not only all-new but “unique” suspension inspired by off-road racing and with active damping, Bilstein Black Hawk e2 shocks designed to smooth harsh terrain at speeds exceeding 100 mph, and with 13 inches of wheel travel at all four corners. 

Ram says a new Baja drive mode “calibrates four-wheel-drive and steering systems, stability control, paddle shifters and suspension for ultimate desert performance, delivering maximum capability on undulating, loose surfaces.”

The hood scoop is functional, integrated composite rear-fender flares widen the body by 8 inches and LED lamps are integrated into the hood scoop and front flares.

Standard wheels are 18 X 9 and are available in standard or beadlock designs and wear 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory tires. 

Buyers can select from three interior setups — cloth and vinyl, wrapped leather and suede or wrapped leather and suede with red and carbon fiber accents. The cabin features as 12-inch Uconnect 4C NAV touchscreen. The options list includes a 900-watt, 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

Production of the 2021 TRX begins later this year.