2016 Ram Heavy Duty & 2016 Ram Rebel

Just released, and carrying over into the ‘16 model year, this Ram 1500 Rebel is more of a street tough guy than a true off-road Raptor rival…still it didn’t stop us from heading for the hills in this “Flame Red” Rebel.

Styling is a main attraction here as Rebel adds unique grille work, bumpers, skid plates, tow hooks and wheels. Inside sees a similar overhaul, but mostly to color schemes and design elements.

No mechanical changes take place, as the 5.7 liter HEMI V8, eight speed auto, air suspension, and everything else were already available. An increased ride height, and 33 inch all terrain tires are new and welcomed.

Also new, but…then again not really…is this 1500 Laramie Limited. Like the Rebel, it’s a new trim more than a new truck. It too gets a unique grille and wheels, and more premium interior treatments. 

Both are on sale now, the Rebel stickers just under 44,000, while the Laramie Limited tops off the 1500 range, starting at just under $52,000.

When there’s serious work to do, it’s time to step up to the Ram Heavy Duty.

And heavy is the operative word, as, for now, Ram can claim best in class towing at 31,210 pounds, by SAEJ2807 standards. But how does it feel towing that much behind the wheel?

ZACK MASKELL: “If you’re even in the market for a heavy duty truck, you’re going to be expecting a lot. The Cummins turbo diesel definitely delivers. It’s got best in class torque at 900 lb-ft. it’s got best in class towing at over 31,000 pounds. Yes, I know I’m towing, but it just does it with such ease…”

JOHN DAVIS: Yes, you heard right, up to 900 lb-ft of torque from the 6.7 liter Cummins turbo diesel inline 6. The look, too, gets addressed. The Laramie Limited grille from the 1500 also finds its way here, and the interior gets a freshening and functionality redesign.

On sale now, the 2016 Ram Heavy Duty pickups start around $32,000.