The Evolution of TRX Badge in Ram Trucks
The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX marks a significant milestone for the American truck brand, showcasing their dedication to creating high-performance, off-road pickups. However, this is not the first instance of the TRX badge on Ram vehicles. In fact, the legacy dates back to earlier models, illustrating the longstanding tradition of performance in the line-up.
Origins of the TRX Badge
In 2005, when Dodge was still producing its trucks, the TRX moniker was introduced across its truck line. This included the midsize Dakota, the full-size Ram 1500, and the formidable Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty pickups. Notably, these early TRX models were considerably less powerful than the current 702-hp 2021 Ram 1500 TRX and were more akin to off-road packages with performance-focused features.
Dodge Dakota TRX
Launched for the 2006 model year, the Dakota TRX featured trim-specific 16-inch wheels with aggressive off-road tires, painted monotube shock absorbers, a limited-slip differential, and TRX decals. However, it is interesting to note that four-wheel drive was not standard; the Dakota TRX was primarily a rear-wheel-drive vehicle.
Fortunately, the Dakota TRX4 Off-Road was available, which included four-wheel-drive capability along with additional features like a 1.0-inch lift, underbody skid plates, and upgrades from the Heavy-Duty Service package. These enhancements enabled drivers to better tackle challenging terrains.
Ram 1500 TRX
Similar to the Dakota, the Ram 1500 welcomed its TRX variant in 2006. This powerful truck came in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive forms. It was equipped with 17-inch wheels with off-road tires, along with specialized features such as red monotube shocks and a distinctive body-color grille surround. The TRX4 Off-Road variant took capabilities a step further, featuring large tow hooks, enhanced suspension, and skid plates to protect vital components.
Dodge Ram 2500/3500 HD TRX
In 2006, the Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty models embraced the TRX nameplate as well. These robust pickups also offered TRX, TRX4, and TRX4 Off-Road packages, all boasting notable features such as red-painted shocks and all-terrain tires. The TRX4 Off-Road trim was fortified further with substantial tow hooks and skid plates, elevating its off-road prowess.
After a redesign in 2010 that aligned its appearance with the 2009 Ram 1500, the big truck retained the TRX model. However, by 2011, the TRX nameplate was replaced with the Outdoorsman moniker, indicating a shift while maintaining performance-focused characteristics.
Conclusion
In summary, the TRX badge has a rich history within the Ram truck lineage, solidifying its reputation as a powerhouse in both off-road and high-performance categories. As we look to the future, the legacy of vehicles like the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX promises to continue pushing the boundaries of what trucks can achieve.
