By: Krish Persaud
June 22, 2025
When Ram dropped the TRX from the lineup, it left a space at the top of the 1500 range. It was a gap meant for something fast, capable, and attention grabbing. The 2025 Ram 1500 RHO Crew Cab 4×4 fills that gap. It replaces the outgoing supercharged V8 with a new twin-turbo inline-six, while retaining the wide stance, off-road hardware, and presence that helped make the TRX a favourite among performance truck buyers.
You won’t miss it on the road. Our Flame Red tester came with beadlock-capable wheels, Mopar graphics, and rock rails. Its flared arches, functional hood vents, and tall ride height give it the look of a Baja pre-runner more than a traditional work truck. The RHO drew attention wherever it went. Whether parked or passing, it caught the eye of even those who don’t typically care about trucks.
Power comes from a 3.0-litre Hurricane High Output twin-turbo inline-six producing 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft. of torque. It runs through an eight-speed automatic and a full-time four-wheel drive system. Throttle response is quick, with strong low-end torque that makes it easy to build speed. The truck is fast and covers ground quicker than expected, though the driving character is quite different from the TRX. The inline-six is smoother and quieter, lacking the raw V8 rumble that many TRX fans appreciated. It still pulls hard, but with a more refined feel overall.
In daily use, the RHO delivers mixed results. The ride is firm, especially over rougher pavement or highway expansion joints, but it stops short of being harsh. Steering is accurate and well-weighted, though slower than what most crossovers offer. The truck’s width becomes more noticeable in tight parking situations. On the plus side, features like the surround-view camera, parking sensors, and digital rearview mirror help reduce the stress in tight spots.
At highway speeds, the RHO feels composed. It tracks straight and manages wind and road noise well, considering the aggressive tires and lifted suspension. The eight-speed automatic shifts smoothly and responds quickly, though it does not have the rapid-fire feel of a dual-clutch setup.
The suspension setup deserves credit. The RHO rides on Bilstein Blackhawk e2 adaptive performance shocks tuned for both high-speed off-road driving and day-to-day usability. Body roll is well controlled for something this tall, and the rebound is well damped. Over uneven pavement, it remains stable without the floaty or bouncy feel that some trucks struggle with.
Ride quality on broken pavement is firm but composed. There is no excessive rebound or wallowing, and the cabin remains settled even over uneven surfaces. The drivetrain includes a full-time four-wheel drive system with an active transfer case. An electronic locking rear differential is available when extra grip is needed. Off-road modes adjust the throttle response, transmission, suspension, and traction control to match surface conditions.
Brake performance is solid. Pedal feel is progressive, and the brakes inspire confidence even under repeated heavy stops.
We had the chance to explore some gravel roads and light trails. The RHO felt confident in this setting. The suspension soaked up uneven terrain with ease, and throttle calibration made low-speed work feel natural. We did not push the truck to its limits, but the initial impression suggests the capability is more than just cosmetic.
Inside, the RHO offers a mix of rugged functionality and upscale features. The leather and suede-trimmed seats are supportive on longer drives and include massage functions for both front occupants. The new 14.4-inch touchscreen is crisp and quick to respond, though it requires a few extra taps to access functions like climate settings. A passenger-side display has been added, and the 19-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system delivers clear, punchy audio.
Rear seat space is generous, with heated and ventilated seats and plenty of legroom. Interior storage is smartly laid out, with several small compartments that make everyday use easier.
In the bed, a spray-in liner and deployable step improve usability. The Mopar tri-fold tonneau cover kept our cargo secure, and adjustable tie-downs made it easy to manage larger loads. The bed is deep, wide, and practical.
Pricing for the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO Crew Cab 4×4 starts at $113,945 in Canada. Our test vehicle included the Level 1 Equipment Group, Bed Utility Group, beadlock-capable wheels, Mopar exterior graphics, and several other options. The total price came to $131,928 before fees and taxes.
Natural Resources Canada rates the RHO at 15.7 litres/100km in the city, 11.5 litres/100km on the highway, and 13.8 litres/100km combined. Over a week of mixed driving, which included city errands, highway cruising, and some light off-road use, we averaged 14.6 litres/100km. Premium fuel is required.
The 2025 Ram 1500 RHO Crew Cab 4×4 brings much of the TRX’s personality into a more refined and livable form. It still offers aggressive styling, strong performance, and legitimate off-road hardware. The new engine changes the tone. Some buyers will miss the old V8’s drama, while others may appreciate the Hurricane’s smoother power delivery and improved efficiency. With a HEMI V8 returning elsewhere in the Ram lineup, some may hold out for that option. Those who want a bold, fast, and capable full-size truck right now will find a lot to like here. This is still a big, purpose-built machine. That is exactly the point.
