It’s my RHO’s 1st birthday…time to say goodbye?

[Mikey Swift]

Not driving a truck? Be careful…

I was going down the SUV path & almost bought one last week. Thankfully, my salesman was off, so things got delayed.

My wife said, “Remember when you used to drive our X5…seemed like every trip with you behind the wheel, you complained about not having a pickup.” There’s just something feminine about most SUVs. Maybe because I see moms behind the wheel of 99% of the SUVs driving down the road.

So, I’m waiting to see what 2 products SRT has coming at Ram (we should know within the next 30 days).

Nothing feminine about a Trackhawk GC...other than having to dry the bussy after every stop light.

 

[RHOfan]

Nothing feminine about a Trackhawk GC...other than having to dry the bussy after every stop light.

Trackhawk is a cool, but old platform. I wasn’t surprised they kinda flopped (low sales) when introduced to the market. It was a bit pricy for a Jeep, at that time.

Our 5.7L Hemi GC had torque steer…can’t imagine the torque steer with a Hellcat under the hood.

 

[RAM1970]

Twelve months ago on this day, I signed the papers. The RHO’s promise of 18 MPG (common disclosure error of the time, which was SST HO in non-RHO trim) with TRX capability & wide body looks, it seemed like a perfect fit. It was going to be my “weekend getaway rig”, a second vehicle that would NOT be a daily driver.

On the ride home from the dealer, with 33 miles on the odometer, the electronic gremlins initially showed their ugly heads. Three service visits, a bunch of misdiagnoses & 4 weeks in the shop later, my truck was fixed. Well, kinda. We’ve had other gremlins show-up at inopportune times, only to have these gremlins inexplicably disappear moments later, so I have never 100% trusted the truck.

Recently, a fun trip to Moab allowed me to use more of the truck’s capabilities. But let’s face it, serious off-roading a truck beats the crap out of it. If you need it to get you a long distance home, you can’t just throw caution to the wind. That is when my wife suggested renting a Jeep or SxS on location for any serious off-roading. Seemed like a good idea, but then why do I own an RHO? To get me to a remote trailhead on a forest road? Heck, a Camry could get me there.

And let’s face it, a truck that’s engineered to do so many amazing things off-road, you are going to have to compromise its street ride & handling. Realistically, 99% of our driving is on pavement, so is a “wanna-be” trophy truck the best option? And, this truck is so complex & historically troublesome, it’s only a matter of time before the next gremlin peeks from beneath the hood.

So, what’s next? A soft roader with great highway chops, maybe? The ‘26 Honda Pilot Trailsport just received a mid-cycle refresh & at least one owner said his ‘25 model easily completed the Shafer Switchbacks in Moab with his entire family onboard. Reliable? Definitely! Great pavement manners? Yes! Comparatively economical with no relevant compromises? A nice perk!

Let the hilarious, but thoughtful, commentary begin…

I have owned my RHO since No ember 11th. Just turned 3,000 miles. Traded in. A 2020 Limited RAM 1500 Midnight edition in Black. Eat truck I have owned so far. No glitches in the software. Heavy on and off road usage. Pulled large boats from Idaho to Ohio to the Florida Keys. The RHO may have some glitches, but it is by far my favorite truck so far. Even with the glitches…….. that Every Vehicle WILL have in some way shape or form. The only comment I will make is why didn’t RAM use the same setup the have been using in the RHO’s? Seems like they were trouble free in the Limited years ago. Granted I did not purchase that trim level in the RHO so they may be in the higher end options.

 

[rpr]

I’ve been driving a 2014 Limited, lifted with 35’s with the 5.7L Hemi, for the past 12 years. I absolutely love that truck and I never intended to sell it because it has a lifetime Chrysler bumper to bumper warranty. But Stellantis has discontinued so many parts, or just changed part numbers, that the value of the warranty just isn’t there anymore.

So I’m about to pull the trigger on a 2026 RHO and I test drove one today. TBH, I was somewhat disappointed and now I’m a bit torn. I do not agree with any characterizations of it being agile. It’s no where near as agile as my Limited. I’m sure the wider overall width and wheel base is great for desert running, but that doesn’t correlate to agility, that compromises agility. Then I have to consider the narrow lanes on the highways in my area, the narrow switchback roads to get to my cabin in the mountains with semis sometimes careening around blind curves, etc. Plus there’s the Turbo lag which doesn’t exist in the Hemi. And it sounds like an Audi, not a truck. The HK19 audio system also has to go and that’s not an easy job. But in fairness that’s the case with most if not all OEM stereo systems.

Most importantly, I was just underwhelmed with the power. Yes I know the impressive performance specs, but I’m so accustomed to the Hemi I just didn’t love the feel of it. Downshifts were not sharp. I think it’s the same 8 speed tranny that’s in my 2014 Limited and that’s been a nightmare (1st year the released it). I’m on my 4th tranny with only 78K miles on the truck. Maybe I needed to change the drive mode but I did try the turbo launch and again, I expected more. In my opinion the truck was designed for top end, everything else was secondary. But how many people do high speed desert running? And why didn’t they go with a 4 wheel independent suspension?

But…the interior is unmatched, it’s extremely well equipped, the seats are amazingly comfortable so I don’t see my back locking up on long drives, the tech is outstanding (assuming it all works), and it is without a doubt the best looking truck out there in my mind.

I’m think I’m still a buyer, but I expected more. I’m looking into maybe adding the Magnaflow Exhaust option but I don’t want to wait for a custom build so that would have to be done at the dealer and it won’t be cheap. I missed the grunt more than I expected, much more.

I do appreciate this thread, very helpful to hear candid opinions.

 

[INTIMD8R]

I’ve been driving a 2014 Limited, lifted with 35’s with the 5.7L Hemi, for the past 12 years. I absolutely love that truck and I never intended to sell it because it has a lifetime Chrysler bumper to bumper warranty. But Stellantis has discontinued so many parts, or just changed part numbers, that the value of the warranty just isn’t there anymore.

So I’m about to pull the trigger on a 2026 RHO and I test drove one today. TBH, I was somewhat disappointed and now I’m a bit torn. I do not agree with any characterizations of it being agile. It’s no where near as agile as my Limited. I’m sure the wider overall width and wheel base is great for desert running, but that doesn’t correlate to agility, that compromises agility. Then I have to consider the narrow lanes on the highways in my area, the narrow switchback roads to get to my cabin in the mountains with semis sometimes careening around blind curves, etc. Plus there’s the Turbo lag which doesn’t exist in the Hemi. And it sounds like an Audi, not a truck. The HK19 audio system also has to go and that’s not an easy job. But in fairness that’s the case with most if not all OEM stereo systems.

Most importantly, I was just underwhelmed with the power. Yes I know the impressive performance specs, but I’m so accustomed to the Hemi I just didn’t love the feel of it. Downshifts were not sharp. I think it’s the same 8 speed tranny that’s in my 2014 Limited and that’s been a nightmare (1st year the released it). I’m on my 4th tranny with only 78K miles on the truck. Maybe I needed to change the drive mode but I did try the turbo launch and again, I expected more. In my opinion the truck was designed for top end, everything else was secondary. But how many people do high speed desert running? And why didn’t they go with a 4 wheel independent suspension?

But…the interior is unmatched, it’s extremely well equipped, the seats are amazingly comfortable so I don’t see my back locking up on long drives, the tech is outstanding (assuming it all works), and it is without a doubt the best looking truck out there in my mind.

I’m think I’m still a buyer, but I expected more. I’m looking into maybe adding the Magnaflow Exhaust option but I don’t want to wait for a custom build so that would have to be done at the dealer and it won’t be cheap. I missed the grunt more than I expected, much more.

I do appreciate this thread, very helpful to hear candid opinions.

You bash the the truck but like it but hate it, but still a buyer???
Why are you here.

 

[rpr]

It’s called honest dialogue, every vehicle has pros and cons. I didn’t mean to come across as if I was bashing it, nor am I the only one in this thread who’s posted some critiques.

I’m here for honest feedback from RHO owners and I saw quite a bit of that here. The RHO appears to be the best truck out there right now but it’s not perfect. There are some dislikes but as of now it’s still at the top of my list and it’ll likely be my next vehicle.

 

[RHOfan]

You bash the the truck but like it but hate it, but still a buyer???
Why are you here.

I think I understand why he is here. Wide body RHO looks kick-ass & RHO interior is on another level. So, how much do you want the RHO looks/interior vs. a V8 street tuned pickup?

 

[rpr]

Well said RHOFan, with the RHO having significantly more HP than the 5.7L Hemi I just did not expect to miss the grunt of the V8 much, but I did.

I’ll need to reprogram my brain after 12 years of driving the Hemi.

I didn’t mean to hijack the thread buddy, it sounded like you were torn post purchase and I’m torn pre-purchase.

 

[INTIMD8R]

Well said RHOFan, with the RHO having significantly more HP than the 5.7L Hemi I just did not expect to miss the grunt of the V8 much, but I did.

I’ll need to reprogram my brain after 12 years of driving the Hemi.

I didn’t mean to hijack the thread buddy, it sounded like you were torn post purchase and I’m torn pre-purchase.

I get it, I owned a 2004 Ram SRT10 and nothing compared to the sound of that. But I've also owned hemi's for over 25 years and I get it. Last one had Borla Atak exhaust and it was awesomely loud, and with that I never heard the RHO until the day I picked it up.
Honestly yes it doesn't sound like a big bad ass truck that it is. But what is awesome is knowing that it is bad ass and it will pretty kick most every other truck out there (of course not TRX or Raptor R).
But back to the sound, it actually doesn't bother me as much as I thought it would, (like it does you) and I would like it a bit louder. Only because today I had to move my truck to get something out of the garage, got back in and I turned it off because I thought I was starting it.
So come spring I look into something probably.

 

[rpr]

The aFe kit sounds pretty impressive so that might be in my future.

I’ve got lots of research to do…

 

[INTIMD8R]

The aFe kit sounds pretty impressive so that might be in my future.

I’ve got lots of research to do…

I honestly have listened to the the brands over and over and they sound similar in a way. So go with what you like, because that is all that matters.

 

[RHOfan]

The aFe kit sounds pretty impressive so that might be in my future.

I’ve got lots of research to do…

Well, you might be aware the “big wigs” at Ram/Stellantis have said there are 2 SRT Ram models that will be announced soon. One is likely the return of TRX. The other is a mystery.

ChatGPT said it will most likely be a Hemi RHO…basically an “entry level” RHO. I don’t expect that, as it makes little sense as an SRT product.

Automotive News said they are betting on a V8 powered street tuned pickup. Given Ram’s recent concepts (The Dude & 650 Hemi), TK is leaning toward a street truck. Makes sense if TRX is returning & RHO/Rebel exist, why do they need another off-road rig?

Do I want another SRT10 (more likely SRT8)? If it uses the RHO wide body, typical nice Ram interior & an SRT392 or Hellcat, I’d be inclined to purchase. How about you?

 

[rpr]

That sounds pretty awesome to me. An SRT392 would certainly do the job and require less brain rewiring. And it would be tough to say no to a Hellcat, even though that would be overkill for my purposes. What a truck that would be! I agree a Hemi RHO is unlikely but who knows.

I’m guilty of being a repeat early adopter and I usually pay the price for it, but I try not to wait on rumored releases.

It’ll be interesting to watch and see what they release. And hopefully the interest will not turn to buyers remorse for any of us when they do ultimately release it.

 

[RHOfan]

The Hellcat is an amazing power plant, but that supercharger generates crazy heat. In hot climates, like where I live, supercharging can be a detriment.

Fingers crossed for an SRT392, even if it won’t make Hurricane HO numbers. The sound and feel of a V8 in a pickup is just right, IMHO.

 

[RHOfan]

That sounds pretty awesome to me. An SRT392 would certainly do the job and require less brain rewiring. And it would be tough to say no to a Hellcat, even though that would be overkill for my purposes. What a truck that would be! I agree a Hemi RHO is unlikely but who knows.

I’m guilty of being a repeat early adopter and I usually pay the price for it, but I try not to wait on rumored releases.

It’ll be interesting to watch and see what they release. And hopefully the interest will not turn to buyers remorse for any of us when they do ultimately release it.

No remorse. Other than the computer “glitches”, I’ve enjoyed the RHO. A great learning experience, imho.

 

[rpr]

Good point on the heat considerations with the supercharger. That probably makes the SRT392 a more likely candidate since the RHO is primarily marketed as a desert runner.

 

[rpr]

Amusing aside, the nice young lady who arranged the test drive for me at the local dealership said the RHO was really an urban truck made for the city.

 

[natew51]

Man, adter reading this entire thread, I am not sure what to think or do. Loved my TRX and never thought I would give it up. I sold it this past spring and figured the RHO would be a solid replacement, but I don't want to be back here 6 months later miserable with the experience.

Are the other trims levels experiencing the same related issues or is this specific to the RHO? My '19 Limited was moderately modified and I loved that truck but also had electrical gremlins, my '21 Limited has been solid, but old electrics platform. Maybe I should stick w what I've got?!?

NOTE: My RHO is ordered but I know the dealer won't have an issue keeping it I decide to pivot..

 

[eltaco]

Human perception is pretty fascinating, especially when two people are presented with the exact same situation, and have vastly different personal experiences.

A lot of us around here came from a Hemi. Some perceive the RHO better, others regret the change. I’m one who would never go back to a 5.7 Hemi in its current form. For me, the RHO is smoother in power delivery, faster gearbox, and simply much more exciting to drive. It was immediately clear to me how much more performance this setup has than my 2020 Laramie with Hemi, maybe because I had TRX takeoff wheels and tires on my truck and could compare apples to apples.

The exhaust note is certainly different. I’ll liken it to comparing a cruiser to a sport bike. I was always more interested in sport bikes during my riding years… loved the sound, and loved the performance. I feel similar about the RHO. It sounds amazing when into the throttle, but I’ll be the first to admit the cold start high idle isn’t my favorite aspect. The Hemi sounded great, for sure, but overall it had more growl than bite. I also do not miss the Hemi tick or exhaust leak. I’m only 14k miles in on my RHO, but given the option, I’d choose it over a Hemi every time.

 

[natew51]

Human perception is pretty fascinating, especially when two people are presented with the exact same situation, and have vastly different personal experiences.

A lot of us around here came from a Hemi. Some perceive the RHO better, others regret the change. I’m one who would never go back to a 5.7 Hemi in its current form. For me, the RHO is smoother in power delivery, faster gearbox, and simply much more exciting to drive. It was immediately clear to me how much more performance this setup has than my 2020 Laramie with Hemi, maybe because I had TRX takeoff wheels and tires on my truck and could compare apples to apples.

The exhaust note is certainly different. I’ll liken it to comparing a cruiser to a sport bike. I was always more interested in sport bikes during my riding years… loved the sound, and loved the performance. I feel similar about the RHO. It sounds amazing when into the throttle, but I’ll be the first to admit the cold start high idle isn’t my favorite aspect. The Hemi sounded great, for sure, but overall it had more grown than bite. I also do not miss the Hemi tick or exhaust leak. I’m only 14k miles in on my RHO, but given the option, I’d choose it over a Hemi every time.

Love the sport bike comparison. I just traded my power cruiser to go back to a sport naked....yes, the crusier was powerful and had certain pros, but a cruiser nonetheless. As soon as I threw a leg over the sport naked, I knew I was home.