RAM 1500 TRX: Not for the faint of heart
PROS: 702-horsepower engine option; spacious and quiet cabin; and incredible towing prowess.
CONS: Depressing fuel efficiency; difficult to maneuver in tight spaces; and expensive.
VERDICT: When you need a pickup that can handle almost anything, the TRX is one to test drive.
Does it have any competitors or rivals?
The Toyota Tundra TRD Pro and Ford F-150 Raptor.
What’s interesting about the 1500 TRX?
- The TRX is the 1500's top-tier trim and comes with all of the goodies a driver could want.
- A limited Ignition Edition includes black wheels, orange exterior paint, orange stitching on the upholstery, and copper carbon-fiber accents inside the cabin.
- High ground clearance and long-travel off-road suspension mean the TRX is ready for high-speed off-road adventures.
- The TRX comes with a 702-horsepower V8 engine that can tow up to 8,100 pounds and haul 1,310 pounds on the bed.
How about the prices and trims?
The 1500 comes in seven trims this year which we review separately. The TRX trim is too unique not to have a review all its own. This model starts at $77,880, which is pricey compared to other trucks. Then again, not everyone will need or want a behemoth like this.
Unlike other 1500 trims, the TRX is only available with a crew cab that seats five and a short bed (5 feet, 7 inches). Moreover, the TRX comes with four-wheel drive, which is usually the optional drivetrain for the other 1500 trims.
Which one do we recommend?
The TRX isn't for drivers who need a simple truck to get them through the day, so make sure you take advantage of all of its capabilities if you're considering it.
What about its availability?
Shoppers can find the TRX at local Ram dealers nationwide.
What about its performance and handling?
- All TRX trims come with a 702-horsepower V8 engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and four-wheel drive.
- Despite its size, the TRX has an impressive acceleration: 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds.
- Getting in and out of tight spaces is a challenge.
- Overall, the driving experience is enjoyable, though the TRX shines during off-roading excursions.
Every TRX features nearly 12 inches of ground clearance, Bilstein remote-reservoir dampers, 15-inch front brakes, an electronic-locking rear differential, and 18-inch wheels. With a 702-horsepower V8 engine that can haul up to 1,310 pounds and tow up to 8,100 pounds and exceptional suspension, you've got a truck that can handle nearly anything. Few other trucks on the market can compete with this model. The major downside is the fuel efficiency: 10/14 mpg in the city/highway. Then again, if you want a powerful pickup, it comes with a cost.
How’s the interior?
Cabin Space
Since the TRX is only available as a crew cab, tall adults in the backseat will appreciate the additional legroom and the extended recline feature. Because this is a high-end trim, drivers will discover a plethora of storage space, especially underneath the rear seats. Moreover, the 1500 is known for its luxurious cabin, and the TRX doesn't disappoint. However, it resembles the Rebel trim, which comes with cloth upholstery and a power-adjustable driver's seat. Two packages are available to enhance the interior by adding leather, paddle shifters, and carbon-fiber accents. These packages also add driver assistance programs, such as a head-up display and a digital rearview mirror.
Infotainment and connectivity
Standard infotainment features on the TRX include a twelve-inch touchscreen, Uconnect, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation program. A 19-speaker sound system also gets included, which we love since the cabin is quiet. Sometimes Uconnect can get glitchy, but physical buttons and knobs make using this program intuitive.
LIKES: Far more standard infotainment features than other 1500 trims.
DISLIKES: The 12-inch touchscreen can be distracting at first, but you'll get used to it.
How about the technology and features?
LIKES: Uconnect has crisp graphics and is easy to use. The optional surround-view camera is worth investing in.
DISLIKES: Safety programs such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist are only available as options.
Quick Quirks: The TRX features several driving modes and the Sport is best for bumpy roads. |
Some additional features include:
- Thanks to the large windows, the visibility is superb in the TRX.
- Because the TRX is taller than other pickups, hopping in requires more effort.
- The climate system is exceptional, especially during the summer months.
- To help balance a low mpg rating, the TRX comes with a 33-gallon tank.
How’s the exterior?
If the interior and engine aren't enough to get you excited about the TRX, the exterior will make you salivate. Big wheels, the higher ground clearance, big lights, and overall muscular design give this truck a confident and assertive stance. Various accents and extras are available, and we recommend checking them out if you want to make your TRX more distinct. Additionally, the limited edition Ignition Edition is available this year and includes black wheels and orange exterior paint, as well as several interior upgrades.
What warranty and safety does it offer?
Several safety features are standard, and all 1500 trims have an average warranty package.
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has awarded 1500 four out of five stars.
- Since the TRX is a high-end trim, it comes with some standard safety features, but many are still optional.
- Limited warranty for 36,000 miles or three years.
- Powertrain warranty for 60,000 miles or five years.
- Complimentary scheduled maintenance not included.
Are there any incentives and rebates for the 1500 TRX?
To learn about incentives and rebates, visit your local Ram dealership.
2022 RAM 1500 TRX in Villa Rica
