The 2025 Ram 1500 RHO marks a bold new direction for Ram’s high-performance off-road trucks. As the spiritual successor to the legendary Ram 1500 TRX, the RHO brings refined engineering, a powerful new turbocharged engine, and advanced off-road capabilities to take on the rugged wilderness. Designed to be lighter, more efficient, and just as capable, the RHO is a formidable competitor in the off-road truck segment, rivaling the Ford Raptor and Chevrolet Silverado ZR2.
One of the most significant changes in the RHO is under the hood. Instead of the supercharged 6.2L Hellcat V8 found in the TRX, the RHO is powered by a 3.0L Hurricane High Output (H/O) Twin-Turbo Straight-Six engine, delivering 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offers a balance of power, efficiency, and improved weight distribution, making it one of the most exciting powertrains in the segment.
Beyond performance, the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO is built for extreme off-road conditions, featuring a long-travel suspension system, an active transfer case, and a low-restriction exhaust system. It’s designed to tackle tough terrains, with a water-fording capability of 32 inches, an 8,380-lb towing capacity, and a 1,520-lb payload capacity. Whether you’re rock-crawling, dune-bashing, or taking on deep mud, the RHO is engineered to handle it all.
Inside, the RHO blends luxury and technology, offering premium and suede upholstery, carbon-fiber accents, and a massive 12-inch infotainment system, with an optional 14.5-inch upgrade for even more control and connectivity. Safety hasn’t been overlooked either, with adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automated emergency braking included as standard.
With a starting price of $69,995 (excluding the $1,995 destination fee), the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO delivers high-end performance at a competitive price. Pre-orders are open now, with the truck expected to arrive at dealerships in Q3 2024.
Powertrain and Performance
One of the biggest changes in the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO is found under the hood. Ram has replaced the supercharged 6.2L Hellcat V8 from the TRX with an all-new, 3.0L Hurricane High Output (H/O) Twin-Turbo Straight-Six engine. While some enthusiasts may initially miss the roar of a V8, the new Hurricane H/O engine delivers an impressive 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most potent six-cylinder powerplants in the off-road truck segment.
Why the Hurricane H/O?
The Hurricane High Output engine was developed to provide a balance of power, efficiency, and weight savings, making it an ideal choice for a high-performance off-road truck. Some key advantages of this powertrain include:
- Higher efficiency compared to the outgoing V8, with better fuel economy
- Lower weight, which improves handling and agility on rough terrain
- More even weight distribution for better off-road balance
- Twin-turbocharging for instant power delivery and reduced lag
Unlike the TRX’s supercharged V8, which relied on brute force, the twin-turbo setup allows the Hurricane H/O engine to deliver power more smoothly across a wider RPM range, making it more responsive both on and off the road.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 2025 Ram 1500 RHO is paired with a proven 8-speed automatic transmission, which has been optimized for quick and seamless shifts. This transmission ensures smooth power delivery, whether you’re accelerating on the highway or crawling over rocky trails.
Ram has also equipped the RHO with a full-time four-wheel-drive system, featuring an active transfer case that automatically adjusts power distribution between the front and rear axles. This system provides enhanced traction on unpredictable terrain, allowing the RHO to handle deep mud, sand, and snow with confidence.
Acceleration and Performance
While official 0-60 mph times haven’t been released yet, industry estimates suggest the RHO should achieve a 0-60 time in the low 4-second range, making it one of the fastest trucks in its class. Thanks to the Hurricane engine’s twin turbos and improved torque curve, the RHO delivers strong acceleration even at higher elevations, where naturally aspirated engines typically lose power.
Towing and Payload Capacity
Despite its focus on off-road capability, the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO is still a capable workhorse:
- Towing Capacity: 8,380 lbs, making it suitable for hauling trailers, boats, or ATVs
- Payload Capacity: 1,520 lbs, allowing for heavy cargo in the truck bed
- Water Fording Depth: 32 inches, ensuring it can handle deep river crossings
Performance Exhaust and Sound
To complement its high-performance nature, the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO features a low-restriction exhaust system, which enhances both power output and sound quality. While it won’t have the same deep V8 rumble as the TRX, Ram has tuned the exhaust to deliver an aggressive, throaty sound that enhances the truck’s sporty appeal.
Off-Road Capabilities
The 2025 Ram 1500 RHO is designed to be a serious off-road performer, engineered to handle the toughest trails, deepest mud, and steepest rock climbs with ease. With advanced suspension, high ground clearance, and a rugged drivetrain, the RHO is built for adventure seekers who demand durability, power, and precision off the beaten path.
Long-Travel Suspension for Superior Handling
The RHO's suspension is engineered to absorb rough terrain, making off-road driving smoother and more controlled. It features:
- Active dampers that automatically adjust to changing terrain conditions
- Bilstein Black Hawk e2 adaptive performance shocks – the same technology found in the outgoing TRX
- Extended suspension travel for better articulation and ground clearance
- Coil-spring rear suspension for improved ride quality over rugged terrain
These enhancements allow the RHO to glide over desert dunes, rock gardens, and uneven trails with confidence.
Advanced 4WD System and Active Transfer Case
The full-time four-wheel-drive system in the RHO is a game-changer for off-road enthusiasts. It includes:
- An active transfer case, which intelligently distributes power between the front and rear axles for maximum traction
- Selectable drive modes for different terrains, such as Sand, Mud, Rock, and Baja
- Electronically controlled locking rear differential to ensure both rear wheels get equal power in slippery conditions
With this system, the RHO can tackle steep inclines, loose gravel, and deep mud without hesitation.
Extreme Ground Clearance and Water Fording
When it comes to tackling obstacles, the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO offers best-in-class clearance and water-fording capabilities:
- Ground clearance: Expected to be around 11.8 inches, allowing it to clear boulders and deep ruts
- Water-fording depth: Up to 32 inches, making it a capable choice for river crossings and flooded trails
- Approach, departure, and breakover angles: Optimized for steep inclines and rocky trails
This means the RHO can go where most trucks—and even some SUVs—can't.
Off-Road Tires and Wheels
The RHO rides on 35-inch all-terrain tires, wrapped around beadlock-capable wheels. These tires provide:
- Maximum grip on loose surfaces like sand, gravel, and mud
- Durability to withstand sharp rocks and rough trails
- Sidewall reinforcement to reduce punctures and improve ride stability
For those who want even more extreme capability, aftermarket 37-inch tires can likely be fitted for additional ground clearance.
Underbody Protection and Skid Plates
To protect the engine, transmission, and fuel tank, the RHO features high-strength skid plates. These help prevent damage from sharp rocks, fallen logs, and other trail hazards, ensuring the truck can take a beating and keep going.
Baja Mode: Ready for High-Speed Off-Roading
The Baja driving mode is a standout feature that fine-tunes the RHO’s performance for high-speed desert running. When activated, Baja mode:
- Adjusts the shock damping for maximum control at high speeds
- Enhances throttle response for quicker acceleration
- Adjusts the traction control to allow for controlled slides and aggressive cornering
Exterior and Interior Design
Exterior Design: Bold, Aggressive, and Trail-Ready
- Signature RHO Styling
- Wider Body & Flared Fenders – Accommodates 35-inch off-road tires, giving the truck an aggressive, planted look
- Rugged Skid Plates – Provides protection for the underbody when crawling over rocks and rough terrain
- Massive Front Grille – Features bold RAM badging and an optimized airflow design for engine cooling
- Functional Hood Scoop – Enhances engine cooling while adding to the aggressive styling
- LED Lighting – High-performance LED headlights, taillights, and signature LED running lights give it a modern look
- High Ground Clearance – Improved ride height allows for better approach and departure angles on rough terrain
Built for Adventure: Off-Road Ready Features
- All-Terrain 35-Inch Tires – Provide maximum traction in mud, sand, and snow (optional upgrade to 37-inch tires)
- Steel Front and Rear Bumpers – Designed to handle extreme off-road abuse and improve durability
- Tow Hooks (Front & Rear) – Essential for off-road recovery situations
- Dual Exhaust Tips – Positioned high for added clearance and a throaty, aggressive sound
- Interior Design: Luxury Meets Off-Road Performance
Premium Materials & Comfort
- Suede Upholstery – High-quality materials ensure comfort on long journeys
- Carbon Fiber Accents – Adds a sporty, performance-inspired feel
- Ventilated Front Seats – Keeps you comfortable in any weather conditions
- Massage Function Seats (Optional) – Elevates luxury for long road trips
- RHO-Exclusive Badging & Embroidery – Custom interior touches that set it apart from standard Ram 1500 modelsAdvanced Technology & Infotainment
Massive Touchscreens & Digital Displays
- 12-inch Infotainment Display (Standard) – Features Uconnect 5 with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Optional 14.5-inch Display – A larger screen for a more immersive experience
- Digital Gauge Cluster (12.3-inch) – Fully customizable to display off-road data, navigation, and performance stats
- Head-Up Display (HUD) – Projects key information onto the windshield for easy viewing
Premium Audio & Connectivity
- 19-Speaker Harman Kardon Sound System – Crystal-clear audio for music lovers
- 360-Degree Camera System – Essential for off-roading and parking in tight spaces
- Wireless Charging Pad – Keeps devices powered without the hassle of cables
- Multiple USB-C and USB-A Ports – Ensures passengers stay connected
Off-Road Driving Modes & Controls
- Off-Road Pages – Displays real-time data on pitch, roll, traction, and suspension articulation
- Selectable Drive Modes – Adjusts throttle response, suspension settings, and traction control for different terrains (Sand, Mud, Rock, and Baja)
Safety Features: Confidence On and Off the Road
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Maintains a safe following distance from vehicles ahead
- Can slow the truck to a complete stop and restart in heavy traffic
- Reduces driver fatigue on long road trips
Lane Departure Warning & Lane Keep Assist
- Gently steers the truck back into its lane if no corrective action is taken
- Especially useful when driving on highways or unfamiliar roads
Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Detects obstacles, vehicles, or pedestrians ahead
- Alerts the driver and automatically applies brakes to prevent or mitigate collisions
- Critical for urban driving and off-road situations where quick stops are necessary
Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Detects vehicles in the truck’s blind spots and warns the driver
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert assists when reversing, warning of oncoming traffic
- Especially useful when towing a trailer or maneuvering in tight spaces
Off-Road Safety Enhancements
- 360-Degree Camera System with Off-Road Views
- Provides a complete overhead view of the truck’s surroundings
- Includes forward-facing terrain cameras to help navigate rocks, obstacles, and tight trails
- Essential for technical off-roading where visibility is limited
Off-Road Pages & Real-Time Data Monitoring
- Displays vital off-road metrics such as pitch, roll, wheel articulation, and tire pressure
- Helps drivers make informed decisions when tackling difficult terrain
- Prevents rollover risks by providing live stability feedback
Hill Descent Control & Hill Start Assist
- Hill Descent Control automatically applies brakes to maintain a controlled descent on steep slopes
- Perfect for navigating mountain trails and rocky terrain
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Helps prevent rollovers by detecting unstable driving conditions
- Automatically adjusts braking and power distribution to maintain control
- Ensures maximum traction on uneven surfaces
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