With the impending end of production for the popular supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® HELLCAT V8 engine, Ram enthusiasts have been eagerly speculating about the future of the Ram 1500 TRX performance off-roader. Ram CEO, Mike Koval Jr., has hinted at the possibility of electrification as an alternative powertrain for the TRX.
However, given the mixed emotions surrounding battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) in North America, Ram engineers are currently testing a variant of the new twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter Hurricane6 inline-six-cylinder engine as a potential option for the next-generation TRX.
According to sources close to MoparInsiders.com, Ram engineers are actively running several Ram 1500 TRXs equipped with the high-output (H.O.) variant of the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter Hurricane6 engine. The H.O. variant of the Hurricane6 offers enhanced performance characteristics and notable features:
- Twin Garrett turbochargers with liquid charge-air cooling for peak boost pressure of 26 psi.
- Lightweight, oil-jet-cooled, forged aluminum pistons with a diamond-like coating (DLC) on the pins to reduce friction.
- 9.5:1 compression ratio, recommending the use of premium fuel.
- Dual high-pressure direct fuel injection system with centrally mounted injectors in the cylinder head combustion chamber.
- Engine-mounted water-to-air charge cooler with a dedicated cooling circuit and dual inlet.
- Dual overhead camshafts with fully independent variable valve timing.
- Dual water-cooled exhaust manifolds are integrated into the cylinder head.
- Plasma Transfer Wire Arc (PTWA) coating in the cylinder bores for a low-friction wear surface.
The H.O. variant of the Hurricane6 engine can easily generate around 550 horsepower and over 500 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine is expected to be paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission from Z.F. to ensure efficient power delivery, similar to the current TRX and Grand Wagoneer models.
While Ram has emphasized its commitment to electric powertrains for future vehicles based on the STLA Large and STLA Frame platforms, there remains a possibility that the 2025 Ram 1500 TRX will offer both an electric and internal combustion engine (ICE).
FCA US has also been vocal about the Hurricane6 engine being the primary ICE motor for these platforms, showcasing Ram’s dedication to serving enthusiasts who strongly prefer conventional engines. Furthermore, the ongoing development of the Hurricane6 engine underscores Ram’s determination to provide a powertrain solution that satisfies the demands of traditional engine enthusiasts while gradually transitioning towards electrification.
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