2019 Ram 1500 Rebel Arrives Looking Strong and Capable

Much the same way the Ram 2500 Power Wagon is quite different from other Ram 2500s, so too is the Rebel different from the rest of the 1500s. Let's look at the changes and upgrades for the new 2019 Rebel that make it unique.

The new Rebel debuting at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit shares all the frame and chassis upgrades, and mechanical upgrades made to the 2019 Ram 1500. But it also gets a few additions. The first is the optional Quad Cab configuration, which will give buyers an option to save a little weight and have a longer bed. Quad-Cab Rebels will only come with the 6-foot 4-inch bed (or RamBox), whereas the crew-cab Rebels get the 5-foot 7-inch regular bed (or RamBox). We're told that could change based on demand, but for now it is only one bed per cab setup.

The Rebel will also be available with a choice between coil and air suspension systems. Customers can choose the taller coil springs (by 1 inch over stock) or the four-corner air suspension option (which was standard on the previous generation). It also has a taller ride height than regular air suspension Rams. This will be one way enthusiasts (who may want an even taller suspension lift to fit bigger tires) can save a little money and complexity when choosing their future off-roader.

Rebel models will continue to offer extra skid plating under the engine, transfer case and fuel tank. Additionally, the 2019 Ram Rebel will benefit from hill descent control and a standard push-button electronic locking rear differential (also available on the new 4x4 Off-Road Package) for extra rear-end traction on nasty trails.

Designers gave the new hood a more dramatic look with new, functional front vents and a large black power cap at the back of the hood where the "1500" and engine choice is displayed. The grille boasts the large Ram lettering and swoop over the lettering as the previous Rebel did; however, the bumper and lower skid plate have been reshaped to provide the tow hooks with more room. The LED headlights and taillights are new as well.

Inside, the Rebel gets a choice between the 8.4-inch or 12-inch Uconnect multimedia display screens, depending on which option package customers select. Seating is once again a highlight in the Rebel, with a new tire-tread design on the seat surfaces and the Rebel name stitched into the shoulder-side bolster.

Under the hood, the Rebel will offer the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 with the eTorque mild-hybrid system as standard with the V-8 Hemi as an option, with or without eTorque. The non-eTorque V-6 will be available later this year (and we're assuming the EcoDiesel will be as well).

The 2019 Ram 1500 will go on sale in the next few months; we'll have pricing closer to the on-sale date and our First Drive later next month. For now, the numbers look pretty good, but we'll need to get behind the wheel before we can tell you more.

Manufacturer images

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