AskTFL: Is a Ram Rebel Actually Better Than a 1500 with the 4×4 Off-Road Package?

This instalment of AskTFL is all about off-roading in the Ram 1500.

The question comes to us from Jeff, who asks: “Would you say the Ram Rebel and a 1500 with the 4×4 package are about the same as well? What are the noticeable differences? If I’m not into all of the badges and stickers, would a Ram 1500 with the 4×4 package be the better way to go?”

Thanks for the question Jeff! To answer it, we must dig into what each package offers.

ALSO SEE: The Ram Rebel Rouser Comes to Life: Can We Build a Better Raptor?

First, lets look at the 4×4 off-road package, listed as the “Off-Road Group” on the Ram configurator, which can be had on any trim of Ram 1500.

Equip the group and truck will get an eLocker electronic locking rear differential, one-inch lift, front extra heavy-duty shock absorbers, front suspension skid plate, fuel tank skid plate, full-size spare tire, hill descent control, and a set of Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires measuring LT275/65R18C.

That is a pretty nice bit of kit, for either $795 in the US or $875 in Canada. So what makes the Rebel so different?

As Jeff points out, one of the biggest differences is just styling, with the Rebel offering unique style thanks to a special grille, badges and interior appointments. Besides looks though, the Rebel does get a few off-road goodies that the 4×4 package doesn’t offer.

Every Rebel comes with a unique front bumper for better approach angle, a steel skid plate at the front of the truck, Bilstein off-road shocks and unique wheels wrapped in Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac tires.

Getting back to the original question, the noticeable changes will definitely be the tires and the added protection up front thanks to the skid plate. Besides that, the differences you’ll get from the Rebel are mostly cosmetic, so the decision has to be based on how much you care about the Rebel styling.

So opting for a Rebel will get you a more capable off-road truck, though you will end up paying for it. The Rebel sells for about $45,000 in the US and just a little under $50,000 in Canada.

Now you have the facts Jeff, you can make a decision. Happy truck buying!