Thaco, the new distributor for Jeep and Ram in Vietnam, has launched the 2026 Ram 1500 full-size pickup, bringing a significant price adjustment and new versions to the market. The Ram 1500 Rebel starts at 3.749 billion dong, a reduction of nearly 1.64 billion dong compared to the previous generation. The high-performance RHO variant is available for 5.499 billion dong. This strategic move aims to invigorate the American brand's presence in Vietnam, following a rigorous testing event for a fleet of American-style vehicles on rally roads in Phan Thiet.

Ram 1500 Rebel off-roading in a sandy area in Lam Dong. *Photo: Thanh Nhan*

The more accessible pricing for the 2026 Ram 1500 is partly due to a new business strategy and a revised engine. The new model features a smaller 3-liter engine, down from the previous 5.7-liter unit. This change also helps meet stricter emission standards in the US market. The previous high-performance TRX, with a 6.2-liter V8 supercharged engine, was priced at 7.9 billion dong. This marks a new chapter for Ram in Vietnam after several years with a former distributor who had less experience and financial capacity in automotive business.

The 2026 Ram 1500 is a mid-cycle refresh (MCA), incorporating equipment and engine adjustments. While retaining its overall shape, the exterior and interior receive refinements. The new model features a redesigned grille with integrated Ram lettering and more compact LED headlights. The rear taillights are also refreshed, adopting a more angular design.

Ram 1500 RHO at the brand launch event on 30/5 in TP HCM. *Photo: Thanh Nhan*

Large-size segment.

Aggressive grille.

LED headlights redesigned compared to the old version.

Power-adjustable tonneau cover.

RHO badges scattered around the vehicle.

Tires with 18-inch rims.

High-performance shocks on the RHO version.

As a large-size pickup, the Ram 1500 measures nearly 6 meters in overall length, significantly larger than smaller pickups like the Ford Ranger or Toyota Hilux, which are approximately 5.3 meters. Both Rebel and RHO versions come with 18-inch tires. The RHO, however, features a wider tire tread at 325 mm, compared to the Rebel's 275 mm. While both are all-terrain tires, the RHO variant uses a high-performance type.

Mechanical distinctions between the Rebel and RHO extend to their suspension systems. Both utilize double wishbone and coil springs at the rear, supplied by Bilstein. The RHO version, however, boasts an electronically controlled system, offering quick responsiveness across various road conditions at both low and high speeds. The Ford F-150 Raptor, a direct competitor, features its own Fox shocks.

The Ram 1500's interior provides a spacious environment for both rows, offering comfort levels similar to an urban SUV. The 2026 model introduces an upgraded central infotainment screen, expanding from 12 inches to 14.5 inches. A secondary 10.25-inch screen for the front passenger is also a new addition. Second-row seats now offer power adjustment and recline an additional 10 degrees, a feature previously unavailable. Standard equipment includes a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and power-adjustable, heated, cooled, and memory front seats.

Interior on the Rebel version.

Paddle shifters behind the steering wheel.

Rotary shifter on the Rebel version. *Photo: Thaco*

14.5-inch screen on the pickup.

10.25-inch front passenger screen.

Spacious second row.

Traditional lever shifter on the RHO version.

The RHO version enhances comfort and utility with front seats featuring a massage function, a panoramic sunroof, and Rambox cargo bins integrated into both sides of the truck bed. These bins offer a capacity of 207 liters and include a 15 V/400 W power outlet. The Rambox system is available as a 50 million dong option on the Rebel.

Under the hood, the Ram 1500 Rebel is powered by a 3-liter twin-turbo 6-cylinder engine, generating 420 horsepower and 636 Nm of torque. The RHO version utilizes a similar engine, tuned for higher performance, delivering 540 horsepower and 706 Nm of torque. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and part-time four-wheel drive.

A notable operational difference lies in the shifter. The Rebel version features an electronic rotary knob located behind the steering wheel. In contrast, the RHO employs a traditional lever shifter, designed for easier and quicker operation during off-road driving.

The Ram 1500 is the first Ram model to launch in Vietnam under Thaco's distribution. It currently occupies a unique position in the large-size pickup segment, with no direct competitors from major players like Ford or Toyota yet available. However, Ford does offer the high-performance Ranger Raptor, priced at 1.448 billion dong, in a smaller pickup segment.

Thaco's strategy involves selling Ram and Jeep vehicles alongside Peugeot under a new showroom model called SHB (Stellantis Brand House). All three brands are part of the Stellantis group. The SHB model, integrating multiple brands within a single space, is a first for Stellantis in Vietnam and the ASEAN region. Currently, four such showrooms are operational: three in TP HCM and one in Ha Noi. This expands significantly from the previous single showroom in TP HCM under the former distributor, JVA.

Thanh Nhan