2026 Ram 1500 RHO vs. 2027 TRX: What Are the Main Differences?

Ram's off-road truck lineup offers two distinct paths to extreme capability. The Ram 1500 RHO delivers advanced twin-turbo power and sophisticated suspension technology, while the 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX returns with legendary supercharged V-8 performance. Both trucks push the boundaries of the performance pickup segment, yet each appeals to different priorities.

Understanding the core differences between these two flagship models helps drivers across New Brunswick choose the right tool for their adventures. Whether prioritizing modern efficiency or raw horsepower, Ram's performance trucks set benchmarks that competitors struggle to match.

Powertrain Philosophy: Twin-Turbo vs. Supercharged

The Ram 1500 RHO harnesses Ram's innovative 3.0-litre Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six engine, delivering 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque. This advanced powerplant features direct injection, dual independent valve timing, and twin turbochargers that provide immediate throttle response across the rev range.

The 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX will resurrect the legendary 6.2-litre supercharged HEMI V-8, producing a segment-shattering 777 horsepower and 680 lb-ft of torque. This marks a 10% increase over previous TRX variants, making it the most powerful production street-legal gas half-ton pickup ever built. The twin-screw supercharger feeds massive airflow through a dual-path induction system, combining hood scoop and grille-mounted intakes.

Both engines pair with eight-speed automatic transmissions. The TRX employs the high-torque-capacity TorqueFlite 8HP95 specifically engineered for extreme power delivery. The RHO uses the TorqueFlite 8HP75, optimized for the Hurricane's torque characteristics.

Key Performance Figures:

Transfer Case and Drive Modes

The Ram 1500 RHO features a BorgWarner 48-13 full-time transfer case with variable torque distribution. Drive modes include 4WD Auto (40/60 front/rear split), 4WD High Locked (45/55 split in wet/snow, tow modes), Baja mode (25/75 split), and 4WD Low Locked (50/50 split). The 2.64:1 low-range ratio provides precise crawling capability.

The 2027 TRX will use the same BorgWarner 48-13 system with identical low-range gearing. However, TRX offers more drive modes than any competitor: Auto, Tow, Mud/Sand, Rock, Snow, Sport, Baja, Custom, and Valet mode. Each mode reconfigures powertrain response, stability control intervention, and suspension damping to match terrain demands.

TRX adds Launch Control, activated via a dedicated steering column button. This closed-course feature optimizes acceleration across various surfaces, enabling the truck's 3.5-second 0-96 km/h sprint capability.

Suspension Architecture and Ground Clearance

Both trucks share fundamental suspension DNA but with critical differences. The RHO rides on an independent front suspension with forged aluminum upper and lower control arms, providing 330 millimetres of front travel. The rear features Ram's five-link coil system with 356 millimetres of travel.

The 2027 TRX employs the same control arm design and travel figures, maintaining the proven architecture that defined the original TRX generation. Both trucks utilize second-generation Bilstein Black Hawk e2 adaptive performance shocks with precision-machined aluminum casings, directional cooling fins, and dual Electronic Proportional Valves connected to nitrogen-charged remote reservoirs.

Ground clearance matches at 300 millimetres (11.8 inches) for both models, positioning them 51 millimetres higher than the Ram 1500 Rebel. This elevation, combined with composite fender flares that add 203 millimetres of overall width, creates the aggressive stance these trucks demand.

Ram's proprietary Active Terrain Dynamics suspension management system operates on both platforms, continuously adjusting damping forces and predicting mid-air conditions to prepare the shocks for landing. This technology separates Ram's performance trucks from competitors still using passive suspension systems.

Technology and Driver Assistance

Both trucks feature Ram's Atlantis electrical architecture, enabling the 14.5-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen - the largest in the class. Response times reach as quick as 0.05 seconds, operating five times faster than previous-generation systems. The 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster displays over two dozen menus, including performance metrics and driver-assist information.

The RHO and TRX share standard Hands-free Active Driving Assist with L2+ automated driving capability, making them the only premium high-performance gas off-road pickups offering this functionality. The system provides hands-off driving and lane centering on approved roadways, with infrared driver attention monitoring.

A configurable Head-up Display with 10-inch field of view projects critical information including digital tachometer, current speed, current gear, adaptive cruise control status, and turn-by-turn navigation. Class-exclusive dual wireless charging pads ensure devices stay powered during extended trail runs.

The TRX will elevate interior luxury with leather-wrapped airbag cover, full suede headliner, suede-wrapped visors, and genuine carbon-fibre trim throughout. Red contrast stitching flows across hand-wrapped surfaces, complemented by red embroidered TRX seatback logos and Ruby Red seat belts. The RHO maintains premium appointments but with more subdued performance-oriented aesthetics.

Audio and Comfort Features

The 2027 TRX will include a 900-watt premium Harman Kardon audio system with 19 speakers and 10-inch subwoofer - more speakers than any competitor in its class. Front door tweeters feature subtle red perforations for visual impact.

Both trucks offer 12-way power front seats with memory function, massage, heating, and ventilation. The TRX will provide class-exclusive reclining, heated, and ventilated rear seats, extending luxury to second-row passengers. Seating surfaces in the TRX feature black premium Natura Plus leather with perforated suede inserts and bold red bolster accents.

Exterior Design Language

The RHO presents a purposeful off-road aesthetic with functional hood scoop, aggressive bumper design, and standard 18-inch wheels wrapped in 35-inch tires. Ground clearance and approach angles prioritize capability over styling excess.

The 2027 TRX will amplify visual drama with blacked-out bi-functional projector LED headlamps, Flame Red flow-through R-A-M grille badge, and SRT badging. The functional sport performance hood hints at the supercharged power beneath. Standard 18-inch Satin Black wheels shroud the largest brake rotors in the class, with optional beadlock-capable wheels finished in Satin Black with Satin Titanium beadlock rings.

TRX customers will be able to select the Bloodshot Night Edition, featuring a bespoke hand-painted Blacktop exterior upper with custom Flame Red centre hood stripe, unique bodyside splash graphics, red-outline interior badging, glass-encased centre console badge, and carbon fibre with red anodized thread integrated into the weave pattern.

Fuel Capacity and Range

The Ram 1500 RHO comes standard with a 125-litre fuel tank, providing extended range for remote trail adventures. Given the TRX's higher power output and supercharged engine architecture, fuel consumption will be greater than the RHO's twin-turbo configuration, though specific fuel economy figures await official release.

Which Performance Truck Fits Your Mission?

The Ram 1500 RHO offers modern performance engineering - advanced twin-turbo technology delivering immediate response, sophisticated suspension management, and strong capability with relative efficiency. This truck suits drivers who want advanced technology and strong performance without sacrificing everyday drivability.

The 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX embraces traditional American muscle philosophy - a supercharged V-8 producing segment-leading power, theatrical exhaust note, and uncompromising performance credentials. This truck appeals to enthusiasts who prioritize maximum horsepower, iconic powertrain heritage, and the most extreme acceleration figures in the half-ton segment.

Both trucks share Ram's class-exclusive five-link coil rear suspension, second-generation Bilstein Black Hawk e2 adaptive shocks, and Hands-free Active Driving Assist. Both provide 300 millimetres of ground clearance and 35-inch tires. Both feature best-in-class interior technology and premium appointments.

The decision centres on powertrain preference: modern twin-turbo efficiency versus legendary supercharged performance.

Experience Ram's Performance Lineup

The 2026 Ram 1500 RHO is available now at Summit Dodge. The 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX arrives in the second half of 2026 - contact our team to stay informed about ordering timelines and reserve your spot for this highly anticipated return.