2017 Ram Rampage
What It Is
A Fiat-based Dodge Dakota replacement to serve as the entry point for the Ram brand.
Why It Matters
The Rampage will exploit Fiat’s small-truck expertise (yes, it has some) while expanding the Ram product range. And the right-sized Rampage shouldn’t poach lucrative full-size-pickup customers.
Platform
The Fiat Strada truckette sold in Europe, Mexico, and South America has a unitized body in front- or four-wheel-drive layouts. A four-door version is part of the new generation due next year. To skirt the chicken tax, FCA’s Toluca, Mexico, plant is the inevitable Rampage manufacturing site.
Power-train
Turbocharged 1.4-liter and naturally aspirated 2.4-liter four-cylinders, mated to six-speed manual and nine-speed automatic gearboxes.
Competition
New mid-size pickups from GM, Honda, Nissan, and Toyota, plus mint-condition Subaru Bajas.
What Might Go Wrong
Low gas prices could postpone the arrival of pickups that don’t blot out the sun. Also, Ram Trucks CEO Bob Hegbloom has continued to resist the idea, which could kill the entire plan.
Estimated Arrival and Price
Late next year, with a base price around $17,000. Maybe—Ram officials remain emphatically mum about a potential upcoming mid-size pickup.
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