The Ram 1500 TRX burst onto the scene as a formidable challenger to the Ford F-150 Raptor, injecting high-octane performance into the off-road truck segment. While its supercharged V8 and Baja-ready suspension grab headlines, a crucial aspect for any truck owner is its utility – specifically, towing capacity. Does the TRX live up to the expectations when it comes to hauling? Let’s delve into the towing capabilities of the Ram TRX, exploring its specs, real-world towing experiences, and how it balances brute force with practical functionality.
Unleashing the Power: Ram TRX Engine and Towing Specs
At the heart of the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX lies a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine, borrowed from the legendary Hellcat family. While officially not branded a “Hellcat truck” (that badge is reserved for Dodge), the powertrain delivers a staggering 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. This immense power isn’t just for blistering off-road speeds; it’s fundamental to the TRX’s towing prowess.
Ram officially states the 2021 TRX towing capacity at 8,100 pounds. Complementing this is a payload capacity of 1,310 pounds. These figures slightly surpass the Ford Raptor, positioning the TRX as not just a performance off-roader but also a capable workhorse. The TRX utilizes a strengthened eight-speed automatic transmission and a robust four-wheel-drive system to manage this power, ensuring confident towing in various conditions.
Alt text: Powerful supercharged V8 engine of the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX, highlighting its role in achieving impressive towing capacity.
Real-World Towing with the Ram TRX: Performance and Practicality
To assess the real-world towing performance of the Ram TRX, tests often involve hooking up trailers and experiencing how the truck handles different loads. One such test involved towing a classic 1971 Dodge Challenger on a 22-foot aluminum open trailer. The combined weight of the trailer and car was approximately 5,500 pounds, well within the TRX’s stated towing capacity.
The TRX handled this load with ease. Chassis squat was minimal, indicating a well-matched suspension for towing. Stability remained excellent on both back roads and highways, inspiring confidence at speed. The sheer power of the engine meant towing performance was never a concern; in fact, the added load seemed to amplify the supercharger’s distinctive whine, adding to the driving experience. The “Tow” drive mode further optimizes the truck for hauling by adjusting suspension stiffness and other parameters.
Alt text: Side profile of the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX showcasing its aggressive stance and robust build, essential for its towing and off-road capabilities.
Payload Considerations: Matching Towing Needs to Truck Configuration
While the Ram TRX boasts a respectable towing capacity, payload is another critical factor, especially when considering heavier towing scenarios. The tested TRX, equipped with a bed-mounted spare tire, had a reduced payload capacity of just 1,000 pounds, according to the door sticker, lower than the standard 1,310 pounds.
This reduction highlights the importance of understanding your specific truck’s configuration and its impact on payload. For individuals planning to tow heavier loads or enclosed trailers, carefully considering options and payload ratings is crucial. Choosing a TRX configuration without the bed-mounted spare tire would regain the higher payload capacity, making it a more practical choice for frequent towing tasks, especially when tongue weight is a concern.
Alt text: Bed-mounted spare tire on the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX, illustrating a feature that can impact payload capacity and towing considerations.
Braking Performance Under Tow Load
One area noted for potential improvement in the Ram TRX is braking feel, particularly when unloaded. The brake pedal was described as soft with minimal initial bite, requiring adjustment and potentially leading to less smooth stops.
Interestingly, adding a trailer and increasing the weight seemed to alter the brake feel somewhat, providing more confidence during stops. However, even while towing, the overall pedal feel was considered less than ideal. While the TRX’s braking system is undoubtedly capable, refinement in pedal feel could enhance the towing experience, especially in situations requiring precise braking control while hauling.
Alt text: The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX effortlessly towing a classic car on an open trailer, demonstrating its towing capability and stability on the road.
Towing and Beyond: Versatility of the Ram TRX
The Ram TRX is clearly capable of handling typical towing tasks, such as hauling cars, boats, or smaller trailers within its capacity. For larger, heavier enclosed trailers exceeding 20 feet, or for consistently towing at the upper end of its limit, standard Ram 1500 models or heavier-duty trucks in the Ram lineup might be more suitable and practical choices.
However, the TRX offers a unique blend of towing capability with exceptional off-road performance. Its strengthened chassis, advanced suspension, and Baja mode make it a true all-terrain vehicle that can confidently tow your gear to remote locations and then tackle challenging landscapes once unhitched. This versatility sets it apart from conventional trucks, appealing to those who demand both performance and utility.
Alt text: Rear view of the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX in towing action, emphasizing its robust hitch and confident stance while hauling a trailer.
Conclusion: Ram TRX – A Towing Truck with a Wild Side
The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX delivers on its promise of robust towing capacity, comfortably handling loads up to its rated 8,100 pounds. While payload considerations and brake pedal feel are aspects to be mindful of, the TRX proves to be a competent towing vehicle, especially for those who prioritize performance and off-road capability alongside hauling practicality.
For buyers seeking a truck that can not only tow their toys but also conquer challenging terrains with exhilarating speed, the Ram TRX presents a compelling package. It’s a unique offering that blends the utility of a pickup with the heart of a performance machine, making it a standout choice in the truck market for those who want a towing vehicle that’s anything but ordinary.
