Ram Engineers Caught Testing Updated Ram 700 Subcompact Pickup

Despite introducing the all-new compact Ram Rampage in Brazil, Ram continues working on updating its subcompact Ram 700 pickup. The 700, based on the highly successful Fiat Strada, is sold at Ram Truck dealers in six countries: Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, Peru, Panama, and Costa Rica.

Our friends at the Brazilian automotive publication AutoSegredos recently caught Ram engineers in Brazil testing an updated version of the Ram 700 for 2024. While the truck doesn’t seem to have undergone many changes, it appears to receive most of the updates that the Strada received for 2024.

The most significant update could be under the hood. The Strada received a new 1.0-liter Turbo 200 Flex inline-three-cylinder turbo engine. Part of Stellantis’ state-of-the-art turbo flex engine family, this powerhouse ushers in unmatched efficiency and performance. Embracing the industry’s downsizing trend, the Turbo 200 Flex boasts a lightweight build, a responsive low-inertia turbocharger from BorgWarner, and innovative MultiAir III technology. With an output of 130 horsepower (ethanol) or 125 horsepower (gasoline) and an impressive torque of 200 Nm (148 lb.-ft.), the Strada accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in a mere 9.5 seconds, surpassing its competitors.

This update would benefit the Ram 700, which currently features a naturally aspirated 1.3-liter FIREFLY inline-four-cylinder engine sourced from the Stellantis Global Small Engine (GSE) family. This engine produces 100 horsepower on gasoline and 134 Nm (99 lb.-ft.) of torque.

The Strada also added a new Sport mode feature to enhance the driving experience with an even more responsive accelerator. The power of the Turbo 200 Flex is harnessed through a CVT automatic transmission offering three distinct driving modes: Automatic, Manual, and Sport. These would be significant advancements for the 700.

Other changes indicate that the Ram 700 would adopt the new Strada’s exterior features, such as LED headlamps on its premium offerings, updated front and rear fascias, and new grille inserts. The 700 also inherits other features like the Strada’s new wheel designs.

Inside, the Ram 700 Longhorn appears to have the same changes as the Strada Turbo, featuring a new steering wheel design, digital air conditioning controls, and even an all-digital instrument cluster.

Nevertheless, it doesn’t seem like Ram will abandon its smallest offering. However, don’t expect this vehicle to arrive in the U.S. or Canada, as it doesn’t meet crash testing mandates for either country.

Source: AutosSegredos