Ram’s New Compact Truck Might Be The Most European Thing It’s Ever Done

Update: We have added more information about the European lineup of the Ram Rampage following the official preview in Italy.

Ram already operates in several European markets through its distributor partner, KW Auto. Even so, the large 1500 and Heavy Duty lineups have limited appeal, their sheer size suiting only a narrow group of buyers. That’s about to change with the introduction of the new compact-sized Rampage.

More: Ram’s New Dakota Warlock Is Coming For The Hilux With Chinese DNA

The Rampage, by contrast, measures 5,028 mm (198 inches) in length and feels better matched to Europe’s narrower streets. It gives Ram a chance to compete in a smaller, more accessible segment that promises higher sales potential.

Stellantis describes the model as “a bold new entry into the compact lifestyle pick-up segment” created to balance everyday usability with rugged capability. Positioned between C-SUVs and midsize pickups, it claims that it “fills a whitespace in the market”.

Alfa Romeo Tonale and Dodge Hornet Bones

The Rampage debuted in June 2023 as Ram’s first vehicle designed and built entirely in Brazil. It sits on the Small Wide unibody platform shared with the Fiat Toro, Jeep Compass, Jeep Commander, Alfa Romeo Tonale, and Dodge Hornet.

The European Rampage is identical to the South American version, and will be offered in two trims. The rugged Rebel comes with diesel power and rides on 17-inch wheels shod in all-terrain tires. On the other hand, the sporty R/T is fitted with a more potent gasoline engine, combined with a lowered and stiffer suspension, 19-inch wheels and a more aggressive bodykit.

More: Ram’s First SUV Is Coming And So Are Two New SRT Models

The 2.2-liter Multijet turbodiesel is good for 197 hp (147 kW / 200 PS) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque, while the turbo 2.0-liter Hurricane 4 gasoline engine generates 268 hp (200 kW / 272 hp and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. Both powertrains are paired with a nine-speed automatic gearbox and standard all-wheel drive.

Equipment includes full-LED lights, a 12.3-inch infotainment, a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, six USB ports, and Level 2 ADAS. The rear bed has a capacity of 980 lt (34.6 cubic feet) with a payload of up to 1,015 kg (2,238 pounds) in the diesel.

The Brazilian-built truck made its first public outing at Fieracavalli, a horse exhibition held in Verona, Italy, from November 6 to 9. The company describes this as a “European preview”, with its launch date and pricing set to be announced on a later date.

What About The US?

Initially, it was rumored that Ram would also bring the Rampage to the US market, as a competitor to the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz. However, import tariffs have made that idea unfeasible.

Instead, Ram is focusing on a new ladder-frame midsize pickup for North America, a potential successor to the discontinued Dakota. That truck is expected to rival the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Nissan Frontier.

In South America, meanwhile, Ram has already unveiled a new Dakota built on a ladder-frame chassis sourced from China.