Ram gives Power Wagon Rebel-like looks for 2017
Ram Trucks is overhauling its Power Wagon for the 2017 model year with rugged looks to match its robust off-road ability.
Based on the Ram 2500, the Power Wagon takes the form of the Ram 1500 Rebel that was introduced last year and combines it with the function of what could be the most capable pickup on the market.
Two inches taller than the Ram 2500 Heavy Duty 4x4 Crew Cab, the Power Wagon gets hill-decent control, front and rear solid axles built by American Axle & Manufacturing that feature electronic-locking differentials, Ram's Articulink three-link front suspension with an electronic disconnecting sway bar, a five-link coil suspenion setup out back, modified control arms, Bilstein shocks and a mechanical Borg Warner BW 44-47 transfer case.
The additional suspension height, coupled with 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires on 17-inch wheels, give it 14.3 inches of ground clearance, while suspension travel is a massive 26 inches.
Ram says the truck can ford water up to 30 inches deep, while powdercoated front and rear bumpers give it approach and departure angles of 33.6° and 26.2°, respectively.
If all that isn't enough to keep you from getting stuck, a 12,000-lb. Warn winch is tucked inside the front bumper for safety.
Aesthetically, the 2017 Power Wagon borrows the Rebel's blacked-out grille and massive bold, black ‘RAM’ lettering on the tailgate, with 'POWER WAGON' added underneath for good measure.
Gone for 2017 are the awful splash graphics on the bed side, replaced with a slightly more tasteful vertical stripe inspired by a graphic from the late 1970s bearing the Power Wagon name.
Two interior trim packages are available, with Ram promising "upgrades to touch points and wrapped and stitched surfaces" compared to the outgoing version.
Base versions get two-tone black and grey fabric seats with the Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tire tread pattern embossed on their surfaces, while a premium trim option includes leather seats with Power Wagon and Ram logos embroidered on the bolsters.
Both trims share an all-black instrument panel and metallic grey doors and centre stack, the latter featuring an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system running the latest version of Uconnect.
The Power Wagon is powered by the familiar 6.4-litre HEMI V8 that makes 410 horsepower and 429 lb.-ft. of torque.
It's set to go on sale late this year.
Off-road Package added to Ram 2500
If the Power Wagon is a little more than what you need, or you wish it still came powered by a Cummins diesel, then there is another option.
Ram announced a so-called "Off-road Package" is coming to four-wheel drive 2500 models, bringing with it "a list of must-have upgrades for the occasional off-roader," according to the brand.
The package includes Bilstein monotube shocks at all four corners, a transfer case skid plate, hill-decent control and an anti-spin rear differential.
Larger fender flares, front tow hooks and a '4X4 OFF ROAD' add to the look.
The Ram 2500 4x4 Off-road Package is available on Crew Cab and Mega Cab models in both long- and short wheelbases, and with either gas and diesel powertrains.
It is available on all Ram trim levels, including Tradesman, SLT, Big Horn/Lone Star, Outdoorsman, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn and Limited.
The Ram 2500 4x4 Off-road Package will be available in the third quarter of 2016.
