The recent 2024 Rally at Road America, hosted by the Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA), convened a gathering of one hundred journalists who were afforded the opportunity to test drive a diverse selection of eighty vehicles in various settings. From navigating the road America track to cruising through scenic streets to conquering a challenging technical off-road course, the journalists had the unique chance to rigorously assess the vehicles. Following thorough deliberation, the 2025 Ram 1500 Rebel was named as the foremost truck.
The 2025 Ram 1500 Rebel represents the most recent offering from North America’s premier truck manufacturer. It boasts distinctive design elements and outstanding performance, all underpinned by the engineering prowess of Ram Truck. Notably, it is equipped with the RamBox built-in storage system, a significant feature shared with other models in the Ram lineup.
A prominent feature of the Ram Rebel is its unique and recognizable design, highlighted by a blackened grille adorned with prominent “R-A-M” badging. The black off-road front bumper design, complete with a durable powder-coated finish, contributes to its rugged aesthetic. Additionally, the inclusion of new LED fog lamps, a powder-coated skid plate, and front tow hooks further enhances the Rebel’s off-road capabilities. All these features are complemented by the presence of black bezel bi-functional projector headlamps positioned beneath an aluminum sport hood.
Internally, the 2025 Ram 1500 Rebel is replete with rugged luxury and state-of-the-art technology. It showcases the latest Uconnect system featuring a new 14.5-inch touchscreen display, providing an intuitive user experience and a diverse array of connected services and features for unparalleled ease of use. Furthermore, the Rebel incorporates a class-exclusive 10.25-inch passenger screen, enabling the front passenger to assist with navigation, entertainment, and even vehicle camera viewing, simplifying tasks such as hooking up a trailer.
In terms of performance, the 2025 Ram 1500 Rebel delivers on all fronts. It boasts enhanced off-road capability with improved approach, departure, and breakover angles, courtesy of a 1-inch lift kit and the availability of four-corner air suspension. Additionally, the Rebel is equipped with 33-inch all-terrain tires mounted on 18-inch aluminium wheels, Bilstein front and rear shocks, and a steering calibration that complements the Rebel’s increased ride height. Powering the Rebel is the all-new, more powerful 3.0-liter Hurricane Standard Output SST engine, delivering an impressive 420 horsepower and 469 lb.-ft. of torque.
This top-tier pickup truck is offered at a price point of $64,195, plus $1,995 for destination, making it a sound investment for those seeking a rugged and dependable vehicle.
The 2025 Ram 1500 Rebel has undoubtedly solidified its position as the premier pickup truck, captivating the Midwest Automotive Media Writers with its fusion of potent performance, rugged design, and cutting-edge technology.
Mary Conway is a distinguished automotive journalist, celebrated for her decades of experience in automotive news analysis. With more than twenty years of coverage of the Detroit Three for the ABC affiliate in Detroit, her expertise is unparalleled. With a deep-seated affinity for the Motor City stemming from her upbringing in Wisconsin, where her father operated a gas station, Mary serves as an invaluable source of automotive insights.
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