2023 Ram Rampage mid-size pick-up unveiled

This is not Ram’s global challenger to the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger – but this South American model does provide the best clue yet as to what we can expect.

The Ram Rampage – yes, that’s its real name – is built for South America’s booming small pick-up market, and these images are our first look at the new model.

As these images show, the Ram Rampage front-end design is similar to the larger Ram 1500 but on a smaller scale, incorporating C-shaped LED daytime running lights, a wide TRX-style grille and black plastic bumpers.

The tail-light signature is D-shaped, with five LEDs and the reversing lights that appear to resemble the US flag – a nod to the South American model’s Michigan roots.

The Ram Rampage is underpinned by a ‘unibody’ or monocoque chassis – similar to the Ford Maverick small pick-up in the US – rather than the traditional body-on-frame or ladder-frame construction of most full-size pick-ups and utes.

US publication Carscoops reports the Rampage is expected to be powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine, shared with the North American-market Jeep Wrangler, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Giulia and Tonale, plus the Maserati Ghibli.   

Previous teaser videos for the Rampage have shown a 10.25-inch infotainment screen and digital dash, while Ram has claimed the small pick-up’s interior will feature leather seats and a rotary dial gear selector.

Ram is due to confirm more details about the Rampage – such as its price, power and features – later this year.

As previously reported, the Ram Dakota mid-size pick-up is expected to be revived as a rival to Australia’s top-selling Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger, though it could be years away from showrooms.

Speaking with Australian media at the New York Auto Show in April, Ram CEO Mike Koval said a mid-size pick-up is a target for the company, though the vehicle is only in the concept phase.

“We’ve been talking about (the return of a Ram mid-size pick-up) forever and I have committed to myself and to my team … this is the leadership team that is going to execute (bring the vehicle to production). We will be the team that delivers this.

“Every new vehicle, starting with the (next-generation Ram 1500), and everything beyond it … will have an international scope. Or I will try to.”

The Ram Dakota could be offered with a choice of electric or petrol power and be made in right-hand-drive at the company’s US factory, following unprecedented demand for the converted pick-ups in Australia.

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