Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ Ram truck division has unveiled an updated version of its Power Wagon off-road pickup at the 2016 Chicago auto show.
Still based on the Ram 2500 Heavy Duty 4×4 Crew Cab, the 2017 Power Wagon features a number of visual enhancements for the new model year. Up front the 2017 Power Wagon receives a new grille inspired by the Ram Rebel. Projector headlamps with LED marker lights are also part of the update.
In a nod to the Power Wagons from the late 1970s, the 2017 Power Wagon gets a vertical stripe just aft of the cab with “Power Wagon” in rotated font. The stripe is available in gloss black or bright silver, depending on the truck’s exterior paint color.
There is no mistaking the Ram Power Wagon for anything else when viewing the truck from behind thanks to badging that takes up most of the rear tailgate. The back of the truck also features a black powder-coated bumper and taillights with black bezels.
The Power Wagon rides on new-look 17-inch wheels for 2017, complete with 33-inch off-road rubber. The Power Wagon rides two-inches higher than the standard version of the truck.
The Power Wagon’s interior design hasn’t changed much from last year, but Ram says the truck’s cabin has been upgraded with better materials. The Power Wagon’s standard cloth seats feature a tire pattern that perfectly matches the truck’s standard Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires. Leather seats remain an option. A black headliner is also new for 2017.
The 2017 Power Wagon is powered by Ram’s 410 horsepower, 429 lb-ft of torque 6.4L HEMI V8. A six-speed automatic transmission is the only gearbox available. Ram says the Power Wagon can tow up to 10,030 pounds and is capable of hauling a payload up to 1,510 pounds.
Of course the Power Wagon is all about off-road use and continues to shine in that area thanks to a beefed up suspension with a disconnecting sway bar that helps with articulation. The Power Wagon also employs front and rear electronic-locking differentials. However, if you do manage to get stuck in the muck, the Power Wagon comes standard with a 12,000 pound winch.
“The Ram Power Wagon is an off-road, all-access pass, removing the limitations, instilling confidence and allowing owners to reach areas of recreation and lifestyle not attainable with any other pickup,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand and Ram Brand, FCA – Global. “The 2017 Ram Power Wagon delivers to those who travel into extreme terrain, while providing the towing and payload capability required in a heavy-duty truck.”
The 2017 Ram Power Wagon is scheduled to go into production during the fourth quarter of 2016. Pricing will be announced closer to the truck’s market launch.
Live images by Brian Williams. Video courtesy of Ram.
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