The 2016 Ram 1500 lineup boasts an impressive eleven trim levels, but none capture attention and spark debate quite like the Ram Rebel. This truck takes the inherently bold design of the Ram 1500 and amplifies it, creating a machine that exudes aggression and off-road prowess. While the Rebel’s exterior screams adventure, it shares its engine and transmission options with the broader Ram family, and its suspension receives only subtle modifications. To truly understand the 2016 Ram Rebel’s capabilities and identify its ideal role, we took this striking pickup to the trails for a thorough evaluation.
Maximum Ram Design: Bold and Unapologetic
The 2016 Ram Rebel makes a statement with its blacked-out front grille, functional hood scoops, and flared fenders. Its aesthetic is undeniably designed to project enhanced performance, rugged capability, and a strong, assertive presence. Whether onlookers admire or critique the styling, the Rebel’s design is undeniably impactful. From smoked 17-inch wheels wrapped in 33-inch Toyo all-terrain tires to prominent RAM logos front and rear, subtlety is not in the Rebel’s vocabulary. The overall design leans towards the dramatic, yet it perfectly suits an American performance pickup that clearly understands its target demographic. In an era of increasingly large trucks, expecting restraint from a vehicle named “Rebel” seems almost comical.
Factory-Built for the Aftermarket Enthusiast
A key motivation behind the Ram Rebel was to deliver a truck straight from the factory equipped with the upgrades many owners typically seek in the aftermarket. The enhanced wheels and tires are obvious improvements, and Ram further elevates the Rebel with an air suspension system that increases ground clearance by an inch, reaching a total of 9.4 inches. Performance-tuned Bilstein monotube shocks are fitted at both the front and rear. The front axle is a robust ZF 215mm with upper and lower A-arms, while the rear utilizes a 5-link Chrysler 235mm axle—both are equipped with a stabilizer bar for enhanced control. For those seeking maximum traction, Ram offers an optional anti-slip differential (at a reasonable $350) for the 2016 Rebel. A 3.21 rear axle ratio comes standard, with a more aggressive 3.92 ratio available for enhanced low-end grunt.
Off-Road Prowess with a Focus on Fun
These upgrades undeniably bolster the 2016 Ram Rebel’s off-road credentials, and the truck feels remarkably composed when venturing off the pavement. The rack-and-pinion steering is responsive and direct, providing good feedback on varied terrain. The air suspension effectively absorbs bumps and rocks, delivering a surprisingly smooth ride even on rough trails. Hill descent control simplifies navigating steep declines by automatically managing speed via the throttle. However, it’s important to recognize that the Rebel is not a rock crawler like a Jeep Wrangler, nor is it a purpose-built desert racer like the Ford Raptor. The Rebel is designed to excel in off-road environments where it can stretch its legs, rather than meticulously crawling over obstacles. In fact, a significant number of buyers opted for rear-wheel drive models, envisioning the Rebel primarily for high-speed runs across sand dunes, kicking up impressive rooster tails. This type of terrain arguably represents the Rebel’s ideal playground.
The Thrilling Hemi V8 Experience
While the efficient 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine is available in 4×4 versions of the Ram Rebel, resisting the allure of the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 is a challenge. With a robust 395 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft of torque at your disposal, the Hemi transforms the Rebel into a truly exciting machine. Mated to a refined 8-speed automatic transmission, the 2016 Rebel practically begs to have the throttle floored. While our test trail was somewhat confined, limiting opportunities for full-throttle acceleration, even brief bursts of speed and some playful dirt donuts were enough to satisfy the Rebel’s performance cravings. Multiple levels of traction control are readily available to intervene when needed, and the thought of unleashing the Hemi’s full potential on open dunes or grassy fields is genuinely enticing.
Surprisingly Fuel-Efficient and Comfortable
Despite its rugged persona and powder-coated steel front bumper, the 2016 Ram Rebel maintains a surprising degree of civility. Remarkably, the Rebel achieves up to 23 MPG on the highway when equipped with the Pentastar V6 engine. Even the more powerful Hemi V8 delivers respectable figures of 15 MPG city, 21 MPG highway, and 17 MPG combined. Electric power steering, the air suspension, and the smooth-shifting 8-speed transmission work in harmony to create a genuinely comfortable on-road driving experience. The Rebel would be an excellent companion for long highway journeys, whether hauling dirt bikes in the bed or towing a boat for a lakeside vacation. And once you reach your destination and unload, the trails beckon, promising off-road fun.
Interior Comfort Without Compromise
The 2016 Ram Rebel offers comfortable seating for five, highlighted by distinctive cloth bucket seats embossed with the actual tire tread pattern of the Toyo tires. While potentially gimmicky, this design element is well-executed and adds a unique, off-road themed touch to the interior, serving as both a reminder of the truck’s capabilities and a conversation starter. The rest of the Rebel’s interior follows a similar theme – interesting yet welcoming and functional. Red accents punctuate black surfaces throughout the cabin, including the center console, instrument cluster, and infotainment system. A heated leather steering wheel and Uconnect 5.0 technology come standard, rounding out an interior that feels more refined than many of its off-road competitors.
Premium LED Lighting
Further distinguishing the 2016 Ram Rebel from its more basic off-road rivals are standard black projector headlamps. These not only provide excellent visibility but also add a touch of sophistication to the bold front grille. The projector headlamps contribute to the Rebel’s image as a modern marvel rather than a retro throwback. Similarly, LED fog lamps positioned below enhance the Rebel’s aggressive stance, while side-view mirror courtesy lamps and LED bed lighting add practical convenience at night. Sport taillamps at the rear illuminate the truck’s departure, a view you might frequently see if attempting to keep pace with a Rebel on the dunes.
Utility That Works as Hard as You Do
Amidst all the discussion of off-road adventures, it’s crucial to remember that the 2016 Ram Rebel remains a highly capable truck in practical terms. At its peak, the Rebel boasts a payload capacity of 1,378 lbs and a towing capacity of 10,150 lbs. Cargo management is also thoughtfully addressed. The abundance of cupholders in the cabin is immediately noticeable. The innovative RamBox bed storage system is available as a $1,295 option, providing lockable, drainable storage within the bed rails. The Rebel also inherits the clever rear seat folding design from other Ram 1500 models. The rear seats conveniently fold up to reveal a flat load floor with integrated storage compartments and, predictably, even more cupholders.
Reasonably Priced for Its Impressive Package
Considering its comprehensive features and capabilities, the 2016 Ram Rebel presents a compelling value proposition. The 4×4 Rebel model we tested had a starting price of $45,100, excluding destination charges. Adding options like the Luxury Group, Protection Group (including skid plates), Rear Camera and Park Assist, the 5.7-liter Hemi V8, and Uconnect 8.4 navigation brought the total to a still reasonable $51,835 plus destination. Given the Rebel’s inherent performance, refinement, and capability, all backed by a 5-year or 60,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, it’s easy to argue for the Ram Rebel over competing pickups from Ford, Chevy, or Toyota.
A Future Cult Classic in the Making?
While it may cater to a niche demographic, the 2016 Ram Rebel effectively fulfills its mission. It will be intriguing to observe how the Rebel is perceived in the automotive landscape a decade or two from now. Its sales volume won’t be massive, and despite its attention-grabbing front grille and prominent RAM branding, the Rebel might even fly under the radar among industry observers and even pickup truck enthusiasts. Could we be witnessing the emergence of a future classic? It wouldn’t be surprising to see owners using the 2016 Ram Rebel as a solid foundation for their personalized off-road dream builds. Whatever the future holds for the Rebel, it’s sure to bring a smile to your face along the way.
