For American truck enthusiasts, the phrase “forbidden fruit” often conjures images of rugged and capable pickups just out of reach. While the US remains a truck-loving nation, certain models like the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max remain tantalizingly unavailable. Adding to this list of automotive desire is the Rampage Truck, recently resurrected by Ram and making waves in Brazil. The 2025 Ram Rampage is already receiving notable updates, despite only being reintroduced last year, solidifying its position as a compelling – yet still forbidden – pickup for the US market.
The most significant upgrade for the 2025 Rampage truck is under the hood. Replacing the previous 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine is a more potent 2.2-liter mill. This new oil-burner boosts power to 200 horsepower and torque to 332 pound-feet, marking a substantial increase of 30 hp and 52 lb-ft. Ram has retained the smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission but implemented 14% longer gear ratios. This adjustment aims to enhance fuel efficiency, a crucial factor for truck owners. The result is a respectable fuel economy for a truck, with the Rampage achieving 25 miles per gallon in city driving and 31.2 mpg on the highway when equipped with the new diesel engine.
While not engineered for blistering speed, this diesel rampage truck offers more than adequate performance. It can reach 62 mph from a standstill in under 10 seconds. Ram further specifies its in-gear acceleration, stating a 0-62 mph time of 6.4 seconds when starting from 37 mph, and 8 seconds to accelerate from 50 to 75 mph. The 2.2-liter diesel is available across most of the Rampage trim levels, providing a robust and fuel-efficient option for various needs. However, for those seeking maximum performance, the R/T trim remains the powerhouse of the lineup. It houses the 2.0-liter Hurricane gasoline engine, delivering 272 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. This engine configuration rightfully earns the Rampage the title of “the most powerful and fastest pickup truck produced in South America.”
Adding to the 2025 updates, Ram is introducing a new Big Horn trim level for the Rampage truck in Brazil. Positioned as the entry-level variant, the Big Horn is exclusively paired with the upgraded diesel engine. Previously, Stellantis manufactured the Rampage Big Horn at their Goiana plant in Pernambuco, primarily for export markets. While official pricing for the 2025 Big Horn is yet to be announced, it is expected to be more budget-friendly than the Rampage Rebel, which currently retails in Brazil for approximately $45,000. Notably, all Rampage models sold in Brazil come standard with 4×4 and the nine-speed ZF automatic transmission, emphasizing capability and refinement.
The Ram Rampage truck shares its underpinnings with other Stellantis vehicles, riding on the Small Wide 4×4 LWB platform. This platform family also includes the Jeep Compass, Alfa Romeo Tonale, and Dodge Hornet, highlighting the Rampage’s sophisticated foundation. Even the larger Jeep Commander seven-seat SUV, sold in India, utilizes the same architecture, showcasing the versatility of this platform.
Despite these appealing updates and its strong market presence in Brazil, the question remains: will the rampage truck ever reach US shores? While rumors circulated last year about a potential midsize truck being built at Stellantis’ Belvidere, Illinois factory, Ram has remained tight-lipped. A company spokesperson declined to comment on US availability when contacted. Adding to the uncertainty, Stellantis recently announced delays in reopening the Belvidere factory, further dimming hopes for near-term US availability of the Rampage.
The Rampage truck is not alone in its US absence within the Stellantis family. The Ram 1200, a recently updated pickup related to the Peugeot Landtrek and Fiat Titano, is also unavailable in the US. Similarly, the Ram 1000, based on the Fiat Toro, and the smaller Ram 700, derived from the Fiat Strada, are further examples of compelling Ram trucks that American buyers currently miss out on. For now, the 2025 Ram Rampage, with its enhanced diesel engine and new Big Horn trim, remains an enticing international offering, leaving US truck enthusiasts to admire from afar.
