Elite Traveler Spring 2024

DISCOVER

The RAM 1500 TRX has an 8,100-lb towing capacity

by Alexandra Cheney Motoring Full-size pickup trucks continue to perform as the best-selling vehicles in the US. And for good reason — highly pragmatic and exceedingly capable, they pair interior comfort with exterior durability. Easily opt for the roads less traversed with this trio of trucks, each purpose-built for any kind of adventure RAM 1 500 TRX Crew Cab 4 X 4

Consider it the last call for off-road high-performance trucks. Should a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 with an eight-speed automatic transmission entice, the time is now — Ram Trucks announced that this year will be the last for TRX, limiting production to up to 4,000 models worldwide. Next year will usher in a Ram product line halved in liters and bolstered with turbochargers, undoubtedly in response to new emissions regulations, as well as an all-electric version. So if a 702 hp half-ton pickup with a (limited) top speed of 118 mph excites, TRX is the truck. Ascending into TRX is best achieved via one large step and a kind of swinging of the leg across the seat, a move gently reminiscent of mounting a horse. The stance of the truck, tall albeit firmly planted, radiates a position of power. Once inside and peering over the leather and carbon-fiber flat-bottom steering wheel, an emboldening occurs. Add in four-corner active level air suspension with adaptive damping, which aids in leveling any rear loads

while bolstering off-road capability. The mountains are calling, on repeat. Growling to a start, TRX is best experienced with four seats filled. Fold down the vast center console, and occupants may be jostling to enjoy the best-in-class reclining rear seats (with heating and cooling functionality). If it’s gear instead of people in the back row, the flat-load floor, with in-floor and under-seat storage, is thoughtful and convenient. Incorporate the 8,100-lb towing capacity and this high-performance truck flexes into a respectable hauler. Should the sounds of nature not suffice, the 900-watt, 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system can drown out exterior interruptions, including the gurgles and belches of TRX. A gentle reminder to its owners: Despite the 12-inch touchscreen, dual-pane panoramic sunroof and digital rearview mirror, it’s still a truck. RAM 1500 TRX Crew Cab from $96,585, ramtrucks.com

Thestance of the truck, tall albeit fi rmly planted, radiatesa position of power