The 2017 Power Wagon wasn’t the only new pickup Ram had on display at this week’s 2016 Chicago Auto Show. The Fiat Chrysler Automobiles [NYSE:FCAU] brand also rolled out this off-roader based on the 2500 Heavy Duty. It’s called the 2500 Off-Road and according to Ram it’s ideal for customers who need an off-road truck with three-quarter-ton pushing, pulling and hauling capability.
ALSO SEE: 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Debuts At 2016 Chicago Auto Show: Live Photos
Compared to the regular 2500 Heavy Duty, the 2500 Off-Road comes with a four-wheel-drive system complete with an anti-spin differential at the rear. This turns the rear wheels in tandem when increased torque is applied. The design automatically unlocks the differential for normal on-road driving, allowing the wheels to spin independently, for example when cornering.
The suspension includes Bilstein monotube shock absorbers tuned specifically for the weight of the truck and the standard five-link coil rear suspension system. There are also larger fender flares, underbody protection, and large front tow hooks. The wheels are shod in Firestone LT 275/70R 18E OWL (some models feature 285/60R 20E OWL) on/off-road tires.
CHECK OUT: 2017 Nissan Armada Returns As Rebadged Patrol: Live Photos And Video
The 2500 Off-Road also includes standard Hill-Decent Control, borrowed from the Power Wagon. This enables the truck to crawl down steep inclines with the speed adjusted via buttons on the column shifter as opposed to the gas and brake pedals.
The 2017 Ram 2500 Off-Road will be available in the third quarter of 2016. Customers will be able to order it with most of the 2500’s configurations including Crew Cab and Mega Cab, gas and diesel powertrains and short- and long-wheelbase chassis. It will also be offered with all of Ram’s trim levels, including Tradesman, SLT, Big Horn/Lone Star, Outdoorsman, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn and Limited.
For more from the Chicago Auto Show, head to our dedicated hub.
