Back in December of 2020, we featured an article on a new “hyper-limousine” from an Italian coachbuilder called “Aznom” (that’s Monza backward). While 5thGenRams.com talks about the latest news, information, and rumors surrounding the fifth-generation Ram 1500, this vehicle caught our eye because it was based on the Ram 1500 Limited pickup. That’s right, an Italian coachbuilder turned a half-ton Ram 1500 into what they call a “sedan”.
If it sounded a bit confusing then, it still is. Instead of using the Ram 1500 Limited as a base to create a full-size SUV, Aznom decided to transform the rugged pickup truck into a block-edged fastback sedan. While much of the standard features remain, there are numerous changes to the exterior and interior.
On the outside, much of the Ram 1500 Limited remains. The full LED Adaptive Front-Lighting System (AFS) including twin bi-functional projector headlamps, LED foglamps, doors, mirrors, and power running boards, still hint at its Ram 1500 Limited roots. Aznom then went on to manufacture its own unique sheet metal using an English wheel and certain trim pieces were handmade using carbon fiber. The look transforms the handsome pickup into a Rolls-Royce-looking tank.
Under the hood, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 is retained along with its ZF-sourced 8HP75 8-speed automatic transmission. But this HEMI has been upgraded to feature twin-turbocharging and now cranks out 710 horsepower and 701 lb.-ft. of torque. That is 8 more horsepower and 51 more lb.-ft. of torque than the all-new 2021 Ram 1500 TRX performance off-roader. Aznom claims that the Palladium has a 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100 kph) in just 4.5 seconds (pretty close to the TRX’s time) and a certified top speed of 131 mph (210 kph).
According to Aznom, they will offer customers the choice of a 5.7-liter twin-turbocharged V8 with or without mild-hybrid technology, telling us that both a non-eTorque or eTorque mild-hybrid system as offerings with twin-turbocharging. The Ram 1500s part-time four-wheel-drive system is also carried over, to make sure the Palladium can tackle almost every terrain that is thrown at it. Expect, the Ram 1500’s air suspension to also carry over to the ultra-luxurious limousine.
Inside the Palladium, much of the instrument panel design remains, however, every surface has been reupholstered in new materials. Of course, there is the 12-inch Uconnect infotainment system that we have come to love. The center console has even been rewrapped with new material including an analog clock for the rear occupants.
The backseat is where it gets interesting. Gone is the standard leather bench seat that can seat three across, in favor of a luxurious two-person sofa. The new rear seat features bulky leather-wrapped headrests, a unique set of two fully movable lumbar comfort pillows, in-seat storage which includes a minibar, and more legroom than the standard Ram 1500, thanks to the fastback design of the cabin. The center console also gets a completely reworked rear, to hold champagne glasses, and has been designed to extend further back.
Of course, the Ram 1500 Limited’s dual-pane panoramic sunroof and Harman Kardon audio system with 19 premium speakers, 900-watt surround-sound amplifier, 10-inch subwoofer, and active noise cancelation remain.
Recently, YouTube automotive enthusiast and social media presenter, “Supercar Blondie” got a chance to spend some time with the Palladium giving us our best look at the Ram-based hyper-limousine.
After watching her video at the top of the page, let us know what you think of the Palladium in the comments below.
Ram 1500-Based Aznom Palladium Hyper-Limo Image Gallery:
You must be logged in to post a comment.