Performance and Handling of the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX

A truck is only as capable as its engine, so that's where we'll begin. The Ram 1500 TRX houses a supercharged 6.2L V8 that was formerly only found under the hood of the Dodge lineup's Hellcat models. The TRX cranks out 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque! Some of the TRX's achievements include a 4.5 second 0-60 time and a top speed of 118 MPH. To give drives the fastest possible launch time, the TRX employs launch control. This allows the driver to set a specific number of revolutions per minute (RPM) at which the truck will launch. The twin-screw supercharger has a maximum speed of 14,600 RPM and can regulate up to 11 pounds of boost pressure. A high-performance engine requires a high level of cooling. This is why the TRX employs a massive airbox with a functional hood scoop that can sift through 32.9 liters of air every minute and filter out four times the debris that the Ford Raptor can. Cold air is also provided to the engine by an unobstructed grille with flow-through R-A-M lettering. The TRX utilizes a TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission with high torque capability. Paddle shifters are provided to give drivers the option of manual control. 

The engine of the TRX gives it unbeatable performance. Meanwhile, the 4x4 system kicks off the all-terrain capability. The full-time 4x4 system employed by the TRX comes with eight selectable drive modes. Each drive mode adjusts the vehicle's systems to create a customized driving experience. Auto uses sensors to adapt to changes in road conditions to remain in control. Snow mode splits the torque by 45% in the front and 55% in the rear. Meanwhile, engine power is controlled for the best possible launch on snow or ice. Sport mode adjusts the gear mapping, shortens the transmission shift times, splits the torque by 30% in the front and 70% in the rear, and tightens the suspension to provide an exciting on-road driving experience. Baja mode adapts the traction control and transmission systems for optimal control on dunes. It slows the shift times by 68%, adjusts the suspension for full damping, and allows moderate oversteering. Rock mode switches to a 50/50 front and rear torque split and employs an ultra-low gear ratio, while Selec-Speed maintains a pre-set speed for controlled descent on rugged terrain. Sand/Mud mode optimizes the throttle position and torque distribution to improve traction and prevent slippage. Lastly, the Custom mode allows the driver to set the torque split, steering feel, transmission shift points, and suspension stiffness to what they prefer for the environment their driving in. This provides a one-of-a-kind driving experience.

The Ram 1500 TRX designers worked closely with the engineers at Bilstein, a leader in off-road shock absorbers. Black Hawk e2 shock absorbers are used to give the TRX 11.8 inches of ground clearance, 13 inches of front suspension travel, 14 inches of rear suspension travel, and a smooth ride over any terrain. The Black Hawk e2 shocks employ something called Active Terrain Dynamics. This allows the shocks to adjust the firmness in response to changes in terrain automatically. It does this by monitoring the truck's sensors and modify the shock settings based on speed, throttle position, steering angle, and other factors. A pressurized nitrogen gas chamber powers all four shocks. The nitrogen reservoir is remotely located, allowing for maximum suspension travel. The shocks also engage a secondary piston when they are approaching full compression to prevent the dreaded bottom-out. Bilstein added this second piston exclusively for the TRX shocks.

The Ram TRX truly is the most powerful, capable, and fastest street-legal truck on the market. With that level of capability, it's hard not to want to get behind the wheel! So if you're interested in harnessing the power of the TRX, come on down to Rouen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, where a friendly sales associate will help you find the exact TRX you're looking for! If you prefer, you can also find our full Ram inventory right here on our website to start your search today.