The first online version of the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) is here and it’s called MIAS Wired. Among the attendees is Ram, exclusively distributed by the Auto Nation Group. Its sole offering? The Ram 1500 full-size pickup – the original half-ton truck that has been here even before the Ford F-150 was introduced earlier this year.
For the uninitiated, the Ram 1500 is a tight contender to America’s bestselling F-150, just switching places with the Golden Bowtie’s Silverado for the top three spots.
The Ram 1500 is available in two variants, the 1500 Laramie and SLT, both in Crew Cab configuration. The Laramie Crew Cab represents the fifth-generation of the full-size truck, sold as the range-topping version in Ram’s local lineup. Combining the strength of steel on the frame and the lightness of aluminum for the body, the 1500 Laramie offers impressive body rigidity – an essential trait in a rugged workhorse.
The SLT Crew Cab variant, on the other hand, is the fourth-generation model of the 1500, known for the crosshair grille upfront. It serves as the entry-level for Ram’s local lineup but not in any way less in value.
When it comes to their power plants, the Ram 1500 Laramie is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.7-liter Hemi V8 that makes 395hp and 556Nm of torque. The 1500 SLT, on the other hand, has a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine with 285hp and 352Nm of torque — the same engine found in the Gladiator pickup truck.
With these two highly capable trucks already on our shores, is there a chance for the recently launched 2021 Ram TRX to hit the Philippine market? Maybe, but what is the TRX, anyway?
The TRX serves as the top-spec, extreme version of the fifth-generation 1500 that was introduced in the U.S. this year. It’s the contender to the original F-150 Raptor but ultimately more powerful with the legendary Hellcat 6.2-liter V8 under its hood. Imagine a half-ton truck with a muscle car’s heart and you get yourself a Ram TRX spewing out 702hp and 881Nm of torque.
The improvements in the TRX aren’t limited to its looks and engine, but also with its off-roading capabilities — yes, to match or even surpass the very popular Raptor.
Now, whether the TRX will arrive in the Philippines or not, your guess is just as good as ours at this point. But in case it happens, it will be an interesting take, considering that the latest version of its primary rival hasn’t officially set foot ashore just yet. It will definitely upend the Raptor locally and could force Ford Philippines to commence a Jurassic rivalry between the two.
But for now, Ram Philippines has its 1500 duo to graze at. Make sure to check out MIAS Wired to see these massive machines in the comfort of your homes.