Truck Review: Ram Rebel G/T

Climbing into the Ram 1500 Insurgent G/T for the primary time, I used to be struck by how snug and approachable it was for a full-size pickup. In comparison with Chevy’s Path Boss, a dimensionally related truck, the upgraded Insurgent felt simple to drive, even should you’re used to tooling across the suburbs in a Subaru. Sure, the Insurgent is large (it’s a full-size pickup in any case), but it felt very manageable for its dimension. If that is your first full-size truck it’s best to discover it a reasonably simple transition from considerably smaller automobiles.

Inside, the Insurgent has loads of creature comforts, particularly within the G/T bundle. The closely bolstered entrance seats really feel like they belong in a high-horsepower observe automotive, and the non-obligatory 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system within the heart of the sprint permits you to higher management the output of the truck and most of the inside facilities. The display screen could be turned off, if it’s a distraction. The Ram has a great deal of cab area, though with the non-obligatory full-length sunroof, again seat head room suffers a bit. The LED headlamps additionally present loads mild for nighttime drives.

On the road, the Ram rides comfortably and has a pointy turning radius. Some vehicles could be troublesome to parallel park or slide into an open area in a grocery retailer lot—I didn’t expertise that with the Insurgent. The 5.7-liter Hemi with eTorque delivers loads of horsepower and torque once you want it, and each the MDS (cylinder deactivation expertise) and computerized engine start-stop are nearly unimaginable to detect when activated.

At one level whereas slowing down for a stoplight, there was some drag within the powertrain that felt like a delay within the transmission’s downshifts. On the time, I didn’t absolutely perceive the eTorque system, and the odd sensation left me questioning if I’d ended up with a truck with a nasty transmission. However the felt drag was simply the eTorque system doing its factor.

In 2019, Fiat Chrysler (now Stellantis) launched eTorque in a handful of its engine choices, together with the 5.7-liter Hemi. The eTorque delicate hybrid system consists of an electrical motor-generator and 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack that function an influence booster, regenerative braking system, and an alternator to the normal 12-volt battery. The motor-generator attaches on to the engine’s crankshaft by way of the accent belt. This setup permits the hybrid system to ship energy on to the crankshaft when obligatory and to gather and retailer electrical energy from kinetic power generated by the crankshaft, normally throughout braking. In contrast to an alternator, the eTorque system can “disconnect” from the drivetrain when the engine is beneath heavy load—throughout acceleration at increased RPMs—successfully boosting the engine’s horsepower and torque output. This method offers higher gas economic system, sooner off-the-block acceleration, and virtually imperceptible start-stop performance in stop-and-go visitors.

The Insurgent stands out from different Ram 1500 pickups on the highway immediately. Along with its aggressive aesthetic look, it contains a number of spectacular customary options:

• 3.92 rear axle ratio
• Electrical locking rear differential
• 18-inch aluminum wheels with 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac all-terrain tires
• Class IV receiver hitch with seven-pin wiring harness and hitch space mild
• Loads of USB ports (Sorts A and C) and 12-volt DC energy shops
• Tons of inside storage areas: heart console, twin glove containers, door and console pockets, and rear in-floor bins.

The nominally $2,995 G/T bundle options loads of efficiency, comfort, and technological upgrades, however this single improve runs anyplace between $9,100 and $11,400, relying in your infotainment system of alternative. Normal G/T Package deal options embrace:

• 5.7 Hemi eTorque engine with the 8HP75 gearbox
• Chilly air consumption and upgraded exhaust
• Middle shifter and wheel-mounted paddle shifters
• All-leather inside
• Ventilated entrance seats
• Footwell, under-seat, and door accent lighting
• G/T-themed inside and mattress decal
• Heated steering wheel and entrance seats
• uConnect 5 with 12-inch touchscreen show, Apple CarPlay, Google Android Auto, Google Alexa, 4G LTE hotspot, and Ram Efficiency Pages (G/T-specific function)

As daring because the Ram Insurgent could also be, the truck has been at house on American highways for a number of years. My take a look at truck match the usual pickup truck mildew, a spacious crew cab with a brief mattress. However in contrast to many half-ton vehicles in the marketplace, the Insurgent lacks every other cab and mattress mixtures. That mentioned, the Insurgent does include 4 engine choices: an eTorque-equipped 3.6-liter V6 (305 horsepower, 269 pound-feet of torque), two 5.7-liter Hemi V8s, one with eTorque and one with out (395 horsepower, 410 pound-feet of torque), and a 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel (260 horsepower, 480 pound-feet of torque). The Insurgent contains one in all two eight-speed computerized transmissions; one constructed by ZF (8HP75) and the opposite constructed beneath a ZF license (850RE), giving the Ram two prime quality gearboxes choices.

By way of drivability, Ram nailed it with the Insurgent G/T. Older technology Rams have been boxy and hard to maneuver in tight locations. That’s not the case with the G/T.

• General, the Insurgent G/T scores excessive by way of drivability and general efficiency. It offers a really quiet trip thanks partially to lively noise cancellation expertise, and regardless of sporting stiff off-road shocks, the truck delivers a clean trip in most conditions. The motive force’s seat enjoys superb visibility with solely small blind spots, though like most fashionable pickups, rear visibility is considerably restricted.
• All new technology Ram 1500s are simple to drive even should you’re used to smaller automobiles. For a full-size truck, it has an ample turning radius, which is vital to hunters who drive in tight areas (two-tracks, trails, and so on.), and maintaining the truck between the strains on-highway is way simpler than with another full-size vehicles. It additionally has loads of energy.
• The Insurgent G/T’s eTorque-equipped Hemi and ZF-built transmission put out some spectacular efficiency and effectivity numbers, together with an general EPA ranking of 19 MPG (18 metropolis MPG, 22 freeway MPG) with the MDS system in play. With the non-obligatory 33-gallon gasoline tank, a conservative driver with a light-weight cargo load might push this truck over 700 miles earlier than stopping for a refill.
• The eTorque delicate hybrid system offers loads of effectivity and efficiency advantages. Whereas the system’s alternative elements possible will price a reasonably penny when the time comes, the upper restore price might effectively be offset by the system’s advantages, together with typically longer half life.
• Off-road, the RamAir air suspension system offers some spectacular floor clearance on the contact of a button, and the digital switch case shifts rapidly and easily between two and four-wheel drive. The usual hill descent management and non-obligatory digital locking rear differential are priceless options in mountainous and rocky terrain. On lengthy, unpaved roads, the transmission’s “guide” sport mode and steering wheel paddle shifters make drivetrain braking simple to handle and assist forestall brake burnout on downhill grades.
• The Ram’s underbody skid plates present safety for your entire drivetrain and different important parts positioned between the engine and the rear axle. Whereas they are going to barely complicate upkeep and repairs, the off-road safety they afford is spectacular.
• This truck’s engine bay is huge, making many upkeep and future repairs simple when you have the mechanical abilities to take action.
• All Rebels embrace a Class IV receiver hitch and native lighting, however the non-obligatory Trailer Brake-Controller is a pleasant contact for outdoorsmen. The truck boasts a 1,810-pound payload, 7,100-pound Gross Car Weight Score (GVWR), and 11,210-pound max towing capability. These numbers differ on non-G/T Rebels. In sensible phrases, this implies a Insurgent G/T can transport your ATVs, small to mid-size tenting trailer, or small, light-weight field trailer to looking camp. Fishing boats are not any downside both so long as you’re not pulling a sword fishing rig.
• The Ram’s light-weight, dampened tailgate and non-obligatory retractable mattress step are handy options when accessing the mattress.
• This truck has a spacious cab with tons of storage places scattered all through, even with out non-obligatory beneath seat storage or different aftermarket choices. The leather-based seats ought to show simpler to wash than fabric, though the G/T-specific perforations, stitching, and embroidery will complicate the method.
• Tech-lovers and gearheads will respect the uConnect 5 system with the non-obligatory 12-inch touchscreen which provides loads of options, together with a backup digital camera with a short lived “on” possibility, Amazon Alexa, and G/T-specific Ram Efficiency Pages that present detailed readouts of the truck’s real-time efficiency metrics. For the much less tech-savvy, two 8.4-inch variations present an easier, cheaper different. The digital dashboard additionally contains compass and thermometer readouts, though the fallacious steering wheel place will block them from view.
• The latest technology of crew cab Ram 1500 vehicles scores fairly effectively in IIHS crash exams with the 2021 mannequin incomes a Prime Security Decide ranking.

Regardless of its many upgrades and options, the Ram Insurgent G/T does have a number of shortcomings.

• The “base” Insurgent G/T isn’t low cost. Together with all of the required upgrades, the G/T bundle pushes the Insurgent’s price ticket north of $59,000. Towing-friendly add-ons can be found however will price additional.
• The Ram’s non-obligatory 12-inch touchscreen left me feeling a bit overwhelmed. Since most creature comforts controls are managed by way of the huge touchscreen, usually easy changes like altering the A/C or warmth temperature, activating the seat heaters, or altering the radio station have been painstaking. That mixed with the switches for the sunroof and air suspension system compelled me to depend on my entrance seat passenger for help. With time, I’m certain muscle reminiscence would take over, however the truck’s cab controls felt approach too distracting for use safely.
• At pace on concrete freeway surfaces, I discovered the truck’s trip might get very bumpy. On Interstate 25 exterior of Denver, the trip acquired so dangerous at a number of factors {that a} passenger on the cellphone sounded as in the event that they have been on the verge of tears.
• The 4×4 Insurgent G/T has a max towing capability of 11,210 kilos and a payload restrict of 1,810 kilos. For perspective, the Ram 1500 lineup maxes out at a 12,750-pound towing capability and a 2,300-pound payload ranking. Basic Motors and Ford’s half ton vehicles have noticeably increased rankings than something Ram has to supply, and a correctly spec’d 2022 Toyota Tundra will beat out the G/T Insurgent in each classes.
• Regardless of all of the Insurgent’s off-road goodies, its dimension enforces noteworthy off-road limitations. Its lengthy wheelbase and extensive stance forestall it from turning into a severe off-road truck, however for hunters, it must be greater than ample.
• I discovered the dearth of bodily battery voltage and oil temperature gauges disappointing.
• The Insurgent’s digital rearview mirror was a bit small.
• The G/T Insurgent’s lack of choices engine choices have been dissapointing. Even the non-eTorque Hemi is off-limits to the G/T. Additionally, whereas my take a look at truck had wheelhouse liners, a pleasant off-road function, that possibility solely comes with the RamAir suspension, a $2,000 improve.
• Many of the G/T Package deal’s options are geared towards improved aesthetics and luxury. The Sport Efficiency Hood is nonfunctional. The upgraded consumption and exhaust do little-to-nothing to enhance precise powertrain efficiency.

The “base” model of the Insurgent G/T offers a good worth for outdoorsmen wanting a truck that’s as snug as it’s enjoyable to drive each on-road and off. Whereas not a rock crawler by any means, the Hemi V8, full-time four-wheel drive switch case, 3.92 rear axle, and 33-inch Goodyear on/off-road tires can deal with rocky roads, mountain trails, and different tough terrain with ease.

If you happen to plan to tow or haul cargo usually, the Insurgent G/T might not be price the additional price. Aside from the Class IV receiver hitch and hitch-area lighting, virtually all of the vital trailering options price additional. Even with all of the upgrades, the Insurgent G/T continues to be a light-duty truck with very actual towing limits. To get probably the most towing functionality out of a Ram, you should have a look at the 2500 Energy Wagon.

Learn Subsequent: For Outdoorsmen, Torque—Not Horsepower—Is Extra Essential in a Searching Truck

Constructing the Ideally suited Ram Insurgent G/T for Outdoorsmen

The G/T Package deal requires you to pick your infotainment system of alternative, and for most individuals, I might suggest going with the Uconnect 5 system with the 8.4-inch touchscreen and built-in navigation system. (Oddly, the non-navigation model of the Uconnect system appears to be listed as a speaker system possibility.)

I actually just like the full-length energy sunroof, and the RamAir suspension system has important deserves. Regardless that my take a look at truck didn’t have both, I believe each the multi-function tailgate and RamBox in-bed storage system additionally deserve severe consideration should you want that form of versatility in a truck mattress.

Since I reside on the foot of Rocky Mountain’s Entrance Vary, mountain roads and rocky terrain dictate a lot of what I search for in a truck. I’d begin by upgrading to the 33-gallon gas tank, tubular aspect steps, Mattress Utility Group, spray-in bedliner, and tri-fold tonneau cowl. (Sadly, the rear wheelhouse liners solely include the RamAir suspension system.) I’d additionally take a detailed have a look at the Consolation and Comfort Group for its heated rear seats, energy tailgate launch, USB ports, rear 115-volt energy outlet, and wi-fi cellphone charging pad. If you happen to reside within the Rockies or any cold-weather local weather, take into account the Chilly-Climate Group.

For anybody planning to tow with their Insurgent G/T, I’d suggest the tow mirrors, Trailer Encompass View digital camera system, and both the budget-conscious trailer brake controller or the full-blown Trailer Tow Group, which incorporates the trailer brake controller, trailer reverse steering management, and a trailer test mild.

Ram doesn’t provide third-party upgrades by their web site, so if you would like an LED mild bar, a winch, or different tools, you must have a look at aftermarket choices. That mentioned, solely severe off roaders are more likely to want the non-Mopar goodies; most hunters will probably be backcountry-ready with a manufacturing unit Insurgent G/T.

If you wish to construct your individual Insurgent G/T? go to Ram’s Construct & Worth webpage to get rolling. Be certain to pick the 4×4 possibility for the Insurgent on the primary web page and the G/T Package deal beneath the “Packages” header on the second web page. Then you may outfit the Insurgent to your driving purposes to see if the value tag is smart.