Pickups have evolved so far beyond their utilitarian roots, it's tough to remember how bare-bones they used to be. Sure, you can you find a cloth-seat, single-cab stripper with AM/FM? It'll be akin to finding a 10th-grader who drive stick: They're out there, but awfully rare.
On that note, Ram Truck has announced pricing on its tricked-out 1500 Rebel and 1500 Laramie Limited models.
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With its rugged exterior—17-inch alloy wheels, Toyo Open Country A/Ts, robust fender flares, imposing black grille—the 1500 Rebel looks like a Raptor challenger, even if the mechanical upgrades are modest. 4x2 models packing the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 start at $43,985, while opting for the 4x4 drivetrain will raise the opening bid to $47,965. Models sporting the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6—only available in 4x4—begin at $45,915.
1500 Laramie Limited models trade the Rebel's burly interior accents—the tread pattern on its seat inserts match the truck's actual rubber—for the traditional wood and leather route, and cabin's highlighted with pinstriping and stitched accents. Ram says the cabin reflects the model's "black tie" placement in its lineup, though given the target market, we think "bolo tie" fits better.
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The V-6 isn't available on Laramie Limited models, but buyers can select the Ram's 3.0-liter EcoDiesel. Laramie Limited 4x2 models with the diesel start at $54,990, and 4x4 trucks at $58,495. Those who can't resist being able to say "yup, it's got a HEMI," will fork over $51,890 for 4x2 versions, and $55,375 to get the 4x4. All prices include the destination charge.
Of course, any flavor Ram would be perfect for the red carpet at the Grand Ole' Opry—even if the prices are climbing into registers the singers might have trouble hitting.
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