2024 DODGE RAMPAGE COMPACT PICKUP: EVERYTHING WE KNOW SO FAR

A breath of fresh air is blowing through the automobile industry, hinting at an exciting development from Stellantis and Ram. The upcoming 2024 Dodge Rampage, a compact pickup, teases itself from beneath heavy camouflage.

While the Rampage is likely to blaze new trails in emerging markets and possibly replace the Ram 1000 in countries like Columbia and Brazil, it's the unexpected arrival of the Ram 1200 Rampage on American soil that has gearheads' pulses racing.

Despite the demise of the last Dodge Dakota back in 2011, whispers of a new dawn under the nameplates Dakota or Rampage haven't waned. Today, they're roaring louder than ever. Recent sightings of a mystery vehicle, reminiscent of a Fiat Toro, cruising down the roads of Michigan have only added more fuel to fire.

This new breed of compact truck, being co-developed across the Americas, carries the promise of intriguing turbo engines and design elements inspired by the Ram 1500. The production epicenter? Brazil's Goiana industrial complex. Amidst these revelations, whispers about the potential reutilization of the Jeep Cherokee plant in Illinois add another layer of excitement.

Related: 10 Things To Know About The Ram 1500 REV

Project 291: Introducing The Unibody Ram Rampage

In the confidential corners of Stellantis and Ram's engineering labs, an innovative project has been underway. Code-named 'Project 291', the product of these efforts is the new Ram Rampage, a unibody truck designed with front-wheel-drive architecture, taking a cue from the Ford Maverick.

The Rampage features a mono-block design, combining the bed and cab into a single structure. According to MoparInsiders, the truck shares its mechanical base with the Brazilian-built Jeep Commander, known for its robust build. To cater to its weight and dimensions, the Rampage is equipped with specially-calibrated springs and shock absorbers.

While the Rampage is a compact unibody truck, it competes in size with the popular Ford Maverick. It might be slightly shorter, but the Rampage boasts a slightly wider and taller stance.

The design of the Ram 1200, part of the Rampage lineup, is distinguished by a prominent grille featuring horizontal slats and a large Ram badge. Its sleeker headlights, squared-off wheel arches, and pronounced character lines give it a unique aesthetic. To complete the look, the truck has been fitted with simple upright taillights.

Related: How Truck Beds Are Being Reinvented With Electric Pickup Trucks

Unpacking The Power And Performance Of The Ram Rampage

Taking a sneak peek under the protective shell of the Ram Rampage prototype, it quickly becomes apparent that this is no ordinary compact truck. The evidence is in the dual exhausts, which point towards the powerhouse that likely drives this machine - a turbocharged 2.0-liter GME-T4 inline-four-cylinder engine.

Further lending credibility to this conjecture is the prevalent use of E100 fuel in Brazil, hinting at the engine's compatibility with ethanol fuel. Currently flexing its muscles in the Brazilian Jeep Wrangler, the GME-T4 engine churns out an impressive 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This promising performance puts the Rampage head-to-head with the Maverick’s turbocharged 2.0-liter EcoBoost inline-four-cylinder engine, which yields 250 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque.

We can look forward to four trims, with options including the entry-level Big Horn, Laramie, Rebel, and the dark-themed Rebel Night Edition. The rugged Scorpion all-terrain tires on the prototype suggest this model could very well be the Rebel variant.

Related: Chevrolet Silverado vs. Ford F-150 vs. RAM 1500 vs: Best American Full-Size Pickup In 2023

A Look At The Rampage’s Exquisite Interior Design

While the exterior of the Ram Rampage has already captured the limelight, it's now time to venture into the meticulously designed interior of this much-anticipated truck. Ram has ignited curiosity and anticipation by releasing four snapshots of the Rampage’s inner sanctum, each revealing different facets of its carefully curated, technology-infused cabin.

Taking a firm grip on the truck's control is a sleek, sporty steering wheel. With a design prioritizing ergonomic efficiency, it ensures a confident grip and augmented vehicular control. Moreover, conveniently located controls allow effortless access to an array of vehicle functions, promising a streamlined driving experience.

Dominating the dashboard is the 10.25-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment touchscreen. This vibrant, high-resolution display serves as your digital command center, enabling access to an expansive suite of features from navigation and entertainment to connectivity and vehicle customization.

Another eye-catching feature is the embossed seat design, where the R-A-M text commands attention. This delicate detailing injects an air of exclusivity into the cabin, reinforcing the vehicle's brand identity. Beyond aesthetics, these seats offer a perfect blend of comfort and support. Lastly, the innovative rotary shifter dial stands out in the Rampage’s interior. This cleverly designed, space-saving device does away with the traditional gear lever, facilitating smooth gear transitions.

Related: 10 Ways In Which The Dodge Power Wagon Was Pivotal In Building America

Rampage's Anticipated Arrival And Future Prospects

The inception of the Ram Rampage clouded in mystery, has set the stage for one of the most awaited automotive releases in South America. Ram aims to revolutionize the compact pickup market in the region with the Rampage, an offering crafted meticulously to align with the preferences and requirements of South American drivers.

In the wake of the immense success of compact pickup trucks like the Ford Maverick and the Hyundai Santa Cruz, anticipation is high in North America as well. Enthusiasts are abuzz with speculation and hope that Ram might introduce the Rampage, or a vehicle of similar caliber, to the North America as well.

The fact that the Rampage's development spans both South and North America could be the reason behind the recent spotting of the prototype in Michigan. However, the prospects of a compact, economical truck from Ram reaching the USA and Canada markets seem remote at present.

The focus appears to be on a midsized truck for North America, likely with an electric powertrain. While a range-extender variant might be a possibility in the future, any firm conclusions are premature. The introduction of the electric variant is slated to follow the launch of the Ram 1500 REV full-size electric pickup truck, charting an exciting course for the brand's journey.

2023-06-03T14:08:15Z dg43tfdfdgfd