The Ford F-150 Raptor just got some major competition in the high-performance pickup truck battle. We’re talking about the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX (T-Rex). If there is any question of the Ram 1500 TRX taking aim at the F-150 Raptor, visit a dealership like the Portage Ram dealer and look at the engraving under the airbox cover. It shows a Tyrannosaurus rex with a raptor in its mouth. What’s more, Ram placed another jab on the floor of the storage compartment. You’ll find a graphic etched there depicting a hum, a 2021 Ram TRX, a Tyrannosaurus rex, and a Velociraptor. The Velociraptor looks tiny next to the Tyrannosaurus.
The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX is an imposing vehicle, with a body that’s 8-inches wider than the standard Ram 1500. It now has more off-road chops than ever, courtesy of an improved suspension, a stronger frame and several other enhancements. According to the Portage Ram dealership, the TRX’s luxurious cabin is replete with the most up-to-date technology features.
Early reviews of the 2021 Ram TRX have been overwhelmingly positive. TopSpeed.com wrote: “After four long years, the production-spec 2021 Ram 1500 TRX has finally arrived. The truck is as impressive as it seemed back then in concept form if not more so. This performance off-road truck has all the ingredients to make a perfect recipe...”
The TRX is only available as a crew cab with the short cargo bed. Powering the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX is a supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8 engine that cranks out an incredible 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, connected to an eight-speed automatic gearbox that sends power to all four wheels. According to the automaker, the TRX can sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.
The 2021 Ram TRX will make off-roaders happier than a pig in mud. Features that assist this off-road beast in crawling over rocks include an exclusive suspension and a set of 18-inch wheels wrapped around mammoth 35-inch all-terrain tires that help the truck provide 11.8-inches of ground clearance. When you want to ford streams, the TRX has you covered for up to 32-inches of water. Other off-road features include extensive underbody protection, an electronic-locking rear differential, Bilstein remote-reservoir dampers and massive 15-inch front brakes.
When it comes to towing and hauling, the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX beats its F-150 Raptor rival, with a maximum towing capacity of 8,100 pounds and a payload that’s rated for up to 1,310 pounds.
Inside, you’ll find a cabin that redefines the meaning of luxury in a truck interior. The base TRX features cloth upholstery, but buyers looking for a higher level of sophistication can choose the available TR1 or TR2 packages, which add a sizeable amount of bling, with leather-cover surfaces and carbon-fiber and microsuede accents. Drivers can use the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters or the floor shifter on the center console. Options include a head-up display, a digital rearview mirror and ventilated front seats.
A 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio and built-in navigation. For the utmost audio experience, the TRX has an available 900-watt stereo system with 19 speakers.