Ram To Launch A New Midsized 1200 Pickup In Mexico and South America

Ram continues to expand its global footprint and is set to launch a new midsize pickup, the Ram 1200. Based on the Peugeot Landtrek, this model will be produced in China, targeting the growing demand for versatile and affordable pickups in lower-income markets across Latin America and South America.

The Peugeot Landtrek, the foundation for the Ram 1200, was initially developed in partnership with Changan Automobiles and is manufactured at the Shenzhen Baoneng Motor Company in China. This collaboration has enabled Ram to swiftly adapt the Landtrek for its lineup, introducing a competitive option to customers beyond North America.

The Fiat Titano, also based on the Landtrek, is produced in Uruguay and has been updated with Stellantis-exclusive features like Uconnect 5 infotainment, a unique front grille, improved interior materials, and additional safety technology as standard equipment. Given its positioning in the South and Latin American markets, it’s plausible that the new Ram 1200 might follow suit. It is yet unclear if production will occur solely in Uruguay or China alongside other export variants of the Landtrek.

Interior shots leaked suggest the possibility of both scenarios, as the teaser shots from Mexico resemble those of the Landtrek, lacking updates seen in the Titano.

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Retaining much of the Peugeot Landtrek’s design, the Ram 1200 incorporates distinctive Ram styling cues, notably a new front grille with signature Ram detailing and badging. This subtle yet significant change effectively integrates the 1200 into the Ram lineup.

In Mexico, the Ram 1200 is expected to feature a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering up to 210 horsepower and 226 lb.-ft. of torque, with a choice between a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. In South America, it will sport a 2.2-liter turbodiesel inline-four-cylinder engine, producing 180 horsepower and a robust 301 lb.-ft. of torque.

Available in both Regular Cab (Single Cab) and Crew Cab (Double Cab) configurations, the Ram 1200 caters to varied needs. The Tradesman Regular Cab offers a towing capacity of approximately 6,600 lbs. and a payload capacity of 2,650 lbs., while the Laramie trim, equipped with four-wheel drive (4×4), enhances off-road capability and versatility.

Acknowledging the unique demands of South American and Mexican markets, Ram Mexico has requested several modifications to ensure the 1200 meets local requirements and performs well in diverse conditions.

Safety remains paramount for Ram, with the 1200 equipped with up to 29 driving assist features, delivering comprehensive safety coverage. These modern technologies aim to prevent accidents and protect passengers, making the Ram 1200 a reliable choice for families and businesses.

Expected to debut in June in Mexico, the Ram 1200’s pricing ranges from $444,900 MXN (or about $26,600 USD) to $668,900 MXN (or about $40,000 USD). Competing with established models like the Nissan Frontier and Toyota Hilux, the Ram branding, combined with the truck’s capabilities and features, could provide a competitive edge.

While the Ram 1200 won’t be available in the U.S. or Canada, there’s ongoing interest in the Ram Rampage, a compact unibody pickup that has seen significant success in Brazil. Stellantis plans to produce an American-built midsize pickup at its Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois by 2027, likely with an electrified powertrain, considering the market’s shift towards hybrid technology.

With the launch of the Ram 1200, Ram continues to expand its global footprint, offering versatile and reliable vehicles tailored to meet the diverse needs of various markets.

Source: Autocosmos