SCORE Journal - The Official Publication of SCORE Off-Road Racing
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/572278
Under the aluminum hood is a 395 horsepower 5.7-liter Hemi V8 that is backed by an eight- speed automatic transmission. "The eight-speed transmission is clever," says Cappa. It has different shift maps and reads pedal input." This amounts to keeping the engine power at optimum RPM levels for towing or when it's needed. For those that don't want V8 power, a 3.6-liter V6 is also available. Both engine options can be combined with a 3.92 rear axle ratio and are available with a limited-slip differential. "The V6 is only available in 4WD, whereas the V8 is available in 2WD or 4WD," said Cappa. "The 3.92:1 axle ratio on the V6 will get the torque up." While the Dodge 1500 also has a diesel engine option, Cappa stated that there are currently no plans to add this engine to the Ram Rebel, but also suggested that they've obviously thought about it for the future. With these two engine packages, the Ram Rebel is also very capable with a 1530 pound payload capacity and a 10,130-pound towing capacity. These are the same as the standard Ram 1500 series models, but you look much cooler hauling your gear around with the Ram Rebel. The truck also shares the same fuel economy ratings with its 1500 series brothers, 21 mpg highway, and 15 mpg city, making it an economical truck to drive around town in. Inside, the Ram Rebel is also very different from the standard Dodge Ram. The designers wanted Rebel owners to realize they weren't just getting some spare parts and a few decals. High-grain vinyl seats are detailed in Radar Red and black, with bolsters that feature the Toyo Tire tread pattern. An all- black instrument panel with red outlined gauges and bold white numbers looks race inspired. A large center console has just about everything, from a cell phone and tablet holder to a large compartment under the center armrest. Red and light gray accent stitching all around PROJECTOR HEADLAMPS ADD TO THE TRUCK'S AGGRESSIVE APPEARANCE, BUT THEY'RE ALSO BLACKED OUT TO ADD TO THE TRUCK'S BOLD FRONT STYLING. THE "CHALLENGER-STYLE" HOOD LOOKS GREAT ON THE RAM REBEL AND SETS IT APART WITH THE BOLD BLACK GRILLE ON THE FRONT OF THE TRUCK. the interior gives the Ram Rebel a unique touch that isn't duplicated on other Ram trim level models. Available in five colors, Granite Crystal Metallic, Bright Silver Metallic, Flame Red, Bright White, and Brilliant Black, the Ram Rebel will definitely grab people's attention when you drive by. With a $44K entry price, $42K for a 2WD Hemi model, you get a lot of truck for less than the average price of a full- size pickup. With an agressive attitude and a great off-road platform to build off of, it will be interesting to see how the Ram Rebel will be customized by enthusiasts who want to take this cool truck to the next level. SJ 091 SCORE JOURNAL