Ram is expanding the reach of its Brazilian-designed and built Rampage dual-cab ute beyond Latin America, with a European launch planned. This move positions the Rampage as a potentially appealing option in a market traditionally dominated by larger, more rugged vehicles. However, the possibility of the Rampage reaching Australian showrooms remains uncertain due to the absence of right-hand drive production.
A Strategic European Launch
Ram will preview the Rampage at Fieracavalli 2025, an Italian horse show taking place November 6-9, 2025. While the timing of the European launch hasn’t been announced, Ram indicated that the ute is intended to cater to the evolving needs of European drivers seeking a blend of daily usability and robust utility.
Filling a Market Niche
The Rampage aims to occupy a unique space within the European market. Ram describes it as positioned “between C-SUVs and midsize pick-ups,” offering a compelling value proposition that could resonate with buyers seeking a versatile and affordable vehicle. It’s intended to provide a more suitable option for European conditions compared to Ram’s larger, full-size pickups, which have enjoyed limited appeal on the continent.
Distinguishing the Rampage
It’s important to differentiate the Rampage from other Ram models. The Rampage is not the same as the recently revealed Ram Dakota Nightfall for Latin America or Ram’s upcoming US-built mid-size, body-on-frame dual-cab ute – which may also adopt the Dakota name. Instead, the Rampage is a lifestyle-focused ute built on a unibody platform shared with the Jeep Compass. Although the first Ram designed and built in Brazil, it’s part of a broader strategy to extend the brand’s reach beyond its traditional markets.
Technical Specifications and Key Features
Launched in Brazil in 2023, the Rampage measures 5028mm long, 1886mm wide, and 1780mm tall, with a 2994mm wheelbase. This makes it notably shorter than popular models like the Ford Ranger, which measures 5370mm long in dual-cab configuration and is slightly wider. The Rampage offers two engine options:
- Turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol: producing 203kW of power and 400Nm of torque.
- 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel: delivering 149kW and 450Nm.
Both engines are paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Payload capacity varies depending on the engine: 1015kg for diesel models and 750kg for petrol models. All variants feature a practical 980-litre lined tub equipped with LED lighting and a power tailgate.
Ram’s History with Unibody Utes
The Rampage isn’t the first time Ram has offered a unibody ute. The brand previously sold versions of the smaller Fiat Strada and Toro in select Latin American markets. However, in Australia, a nation practically synonymous with the ute, this style of car-derived vehicles has largely disappeared, as the market heavily favors the more traditional ladder-frame construction.
The Australian Question Mark
Whether the Rampage will eventually make it to Australian showrooms remains to be seen. The key obstacle is the absence of right-hand drive production. While Australia represents a significant market for utes, the country’s preference for ladder-frame vehicles complicates the picture. For now, Australian drivers will have to wait to see if Ram decides to invest in right-hand drive production to bring the Rampage to their local showrooms.
Ultimately, the European launch marks a significant step for Ram, and the possibility of an Australian introduction hinges on production decisions and market demand.
