CAUGHT: Compact Ram Rampage Big Horn 4×4 Pickup

The all-new 2024 Ram Rampage, currently available in Brazil, is set to potentially make its debut in North America around 2025. Despite its budget-friendly approach, the Rampage doesn’t compromise on the opulent features typical of full-size trucks. This compact pickup shares its underlying architecture with the Jeep® Compass and Commander, blending functionality with capability.

In Brazil, the Rampage comes in three trims: Rebel, Laramie, and the performance-oriented R/T, catering to the luxury segment due to the premium perception of the Ram brand in that region. However, signs indicate that Ram intends to bring the Rampage to a broader audience with a more affordable variant. A spy shot from Brazilian automotive site AutosSegredos reveals the upcoming Big Horn trim, which sheds some of the chrome details in the upscale Laramie model, similar to the Ram 1500 Big Horn models.

While the Brazilian Rampage offers diesel and gasoline powertrains, North America will likely receive a gasoline model first, followed by a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option. The base engine for the North American version is reportedly the turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder, known as the Hurricane4, part of the Stellantis Global Medium Engine (GME) family. This engine, already used in various North American vehicles, delivers 272 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, potentially making it a class leader. It’s mated to a ZF-sourced 9-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive (4×4) system.

The PHEV variant could take inspiration from the Hornet R/T. The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T boasts remarkable performance with a 1.3-liter turbocharged all-aluminum engine and an electric induction motor powering the rear axle. This setup achieves 288 horsepower and 383 lb.-ft. of torque, making use of a 15.5-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, a high-power inverter, and a 7.4-kW charging module. With over 30 miles of all-electric range and a 6-speed automatic transmission, the hybrid system strikes a balance between performance and efficiency. If consistent with the Hornet R/T, the Rampage PHEV would also likely comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD).

Although Ram has remained tight-lipped about the Rampage’s potential North American release, multiple sightings of the compact pickups being tested in the U.S. suggest the company is considering this move. This pickup might effectively fill the void left by the aging Ram 1500 Classic, due to exit the market by year-end. Moreover, it could serve as a fitting candidate to rejuvenate production at the recently shuttered Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois, known for its experience in producing unibody vehicles.

With the impressive success of the Ford Maverick and its supply struggling to meet demand, the Rampage might find itself in a strong position within the North American market if introduced by the Ram brand.

Source: Marlos Ney Vadal via Autos Segredos