The 2025 Ram 1500 RHO has sparked plenty of conversation, and for good reason. While some assumed the RHO would simply replace the TRX, it’s clear the RHO is carving out its own identity. With a blend of TRX-inspired suspension and styling, the RHO refines those elements into a more balanced, daily-driver-friendly package — all while taking direct aim at the Ford F-150 Raptor.
Powering the RHO is the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter HURRICANE High-Output (H/O) I6 engine, producing 540 horsepower and 521 lb.-ft. of torque on premium fuel. This puts it ahead of the Ford F-150 Raptor’s twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6, which offers 450 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque.
The RHO balances impressive power with better efficiency and reduced emissions, making it a well-rounded option in the high-performance off-road truck segment. This engine was developed to replace the outgoing 5.7-liter and 6.4-liter HEMI V8s, offering greater efficiency and fewer emissions while delivering class-leading performance. The smoothness of the I6 layout complements the power delivery, and the HURRICANE can easily propel the 6,283-pound RHO around.
Paired with the engine is a ZF-sourced 8HP75 8-speed automatic transmission, tuned to provide seamless, nearly imperceptible shifts. The RHO also benefits from improved front-to-rear balance, thanks to the lighter weight of the I6 compared to the TRX’s HELLCAT V8. Suspension tuning has been optimized for this new weight distribution, and the AWD/4WD transfer case has been adjusted for more rear-wheel-drive bias in certain drive modes.
The RHO is equipped with a BorgWarner 48-13 full-time active transfer case, featuring upgraded internals for enhanced strength and durability. It offers a low range of 2.64:1 for rock crawling and the ability to be flat-towed in neutral (great for those who are looking for a fun off-road vehicle to tow behind their RV). Bilstein BlackHawk e2 adaptive performance shocks manage both on-road handling and off-road capability, aided by the Ram Active Terrain Dynamics suspension management system.
The RHO’s suspension easily tackles harsh back roads and the terribly rough roads here in Michigan, making it one of the most comfortable daily drivers in the off-road truck segment. The ride quality and suspension tuning make it a standout for anyone dealing with less-than-perfect road conditions on a daily basis.
For capability, the RHO boasts an 8,380 lb (3,801 kg) towing capacity, a 1,520 lb (689 kg) payload capacity, and the ability to ford up to 32 inches (81 cm) of water. Ground clearance measures 11.8 inches (30 cm), aided by a 2-inch (5 cm) ride height increase and 35-inch tires.
Our RHO stood out with its aggressive widebody stance, composite flares, and optional 18-inch beadlock-capable wheels. The RHO is 8-inches wider than the standard Ram 1500 and features a 6-inch track width increase. Distinctive R-A-M badging, a flow-through grille, steel bumpers, and LED lighting round out its bold exterior design.
Inside, the RHO’s cabin is a blend of performance and luxury. Our test truck featured the $9,995 RHO Level 1 Equipment Group, which adds standout features like heated and ventilated massaging front seats, a large 14.5-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen, a 10.25-inch interactive passenger display, Hands-Free Driving Assist, a Head-Up Display (HUD), and a digital rear-view mirror. This package turned the truck into a true luxury truck, helping to bring the sticker price to a whopping $86,000.
Built in Sterling Heights, Michigan, the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO starts at $69,995, plus a $1,995 destination charge. With its combination of power, capability, and advanced technology, the RHO is positioned to be a serious contender in the off-road performance truck market. It’s also competitively priced against the 2025 Ford F-150 Raptor, which starts at $78,875, making the RHO a better value considering its higher power output and similar off-road capability.
While the added features are undeniably impressive, if it were my money, I’d opt for the base RHO. You still get the same core performance and capability but at a more reasonable price.
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