Check out the 2023 Dodge Ram Rebel HD First Drive video!
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The Rebel will fit nicely in Ram’s HD lineup between the Laramie and the Power Wagon models. The Rebel is meant to be a little bit of both, meaning with the Rebel you’re meant to get great off-road capability without sacrificing either towing capacity or payload or on road ride quality. And Ram seems to be keeping that promise because the HD Rebel can tow up to 16,780 pounds and carry 3,140 pounds.
There are two engine options available. It comes standard with the 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 that pulls heartily. You’re getting 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque with that engine. But the better story is that it also comes with an optional 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel. Yes, Power Wagon fans itching for a diesel option, it’s time to scratch. (370 horsepower/850 lb-ft of torque) Just look at that insane torque number. The Cummins mates to a 6-speed automatic transmission that’s very equipped to handle that ginormous torque number. One caveat about the diesel is you do have slight less towing. Just under 15,000 pounds The V-8 HEMI gets an 8-speed transmission that’s eager to get you up into the higher gears to start being more efficient.
If you do opt for the Cummins it’s going to be a 10,000 up charge. 8 for the engine and 2 for the transmission. That 8-speed is electronic so you’ll have a dial shifter. Because the 6-speed is mechanical you’ll get an old school stalk on the steering column. I love those.
Both transmissions feel effecting rolling through gears effectively and steadily. The HD Rebel’s suspension is a great combination of things that add up to that ride. It’s got a five-link coil design rear end that allows you to still carry load and an optional air suspension for added comfort and improved handling.
Steering feels pretty light, I like a heavier feel for sure. But when you fill this up with payload or hitch up your wagon I’d appreciate it. I also appreciate how maneuverable it feels for such a massive truck.
I’m not sure what it feels like to tow as we don’t have the opportunity here but subscribe to the KBB YouTube channel to stay tuned if we get an opportunity.
When it comes to safety features there are plenty available on the HD Rebel. Adaptive Cruise control, Forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, which is a functional system but not the smoothest. You can also get blind sport monitoring. Some of those safety features are optional like the 360-degree surround camera. the visibility on the cameras looks good. These are actually usable.
The Rebel definitely leans more toward the off-roading truck space and you get some features that will help you do that well if you can maneuver around the long wheelbase. You’ll get a rear locker, a rear limited slip differential, 20-inch wheels with 33-inch off-road tires, though 18- inch wheels will eventually be available when you purchase, and skid plates underneath to protect all the vulnerable bits.
Things on the Power Wagon you won’t get on the Rebel include the articulating suspension, disconnecting sway bar and front locker. If you think you’ll need it you can also get a front mounted 12,000 pound WARN winch installed at the factory. But note that it’s only available with the HEMI powered Rebels. The architecture on the diesel won’t accommodate a winch. The HD Rebel comes in a crew cab configuration with a six-foot four-inch box. Again, watch your breakover angles because this sucker is a biggie.
When it comes to styling I’m a fan of the exterior. I think it gives off cues of burly and butch without being over the top. I like a sleeper, vehicles that don’t show all their cards until you’re out killing it on the trail. The Rebel feels like one of them. Inside, the HD Rebel is still super luxurious the way a lot of trucks are heading these days. You can get leather bucket seats, a big 12-inch optional touchscreen to see all your information, and that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and charging.
Pricing on the HD Rebel starts at $67,045. That might sound steep, but when you consider what you’re getting without having to pay Power Wagon premiums it might be an easier pill to swallow. It’s off-road capable, tows and carries a lot of payload, is incredibly comfortable to drive and looks great.
Not sure what else you’re looking for in a truck, but if you’re looking for one that can do it all, then the Ram HD Rebel should make your list.
00:00 2023 Ram HD Rebel
0:52 Engine Options
1:52 Driving Impressions
6:25 Exterior
6:42 Interior
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