A few days ago one of our readers spotted a prototype of the RAM 1200 pickup out in the open, and now our spy photographers caught two very similar and heavily camouflaged test vehicles during winter testing. The prototypes retain the cardboard-style camouflage which is literally covering every inch of the bodywork, but here’s what we know so far on what is hiding underneath.
The 2024 RAM 1200 – codenamed 291 – is an upcoming pickup model destined for Latin America, and designed to go against the Toyota HiLux and the Ford Ranger in the midsize pickup segment. RAM’s upcoming pickup truck will slot above the RAM 1000, which is a rebadged Fiat Toro available in some South American markets.
Read: RAM Wants To Show Dealers A New Dakota Mid-Size Pickup Concept In March To ‘Gauge Their Interest’
The prototype has a double-cab pickup bodystyle with a rather long wheelbase, although the extra patches of camo above the rear bed try to disguise its shape as an SUV. The round headlights, the Fiat Toro-sourced taillights, and the vertical reflectors underneath are provisional units, all will be replaced in the final production model. The only exposed parts to be carried over are expected to be the windshield and side windows. We can also see the honeycomb pattern of the grille through holes in the camouflage.
Reports from local media suggest that the RAM 1200 will be based on the Small Wide 4×4 LWB architecture that is also underpinning the Jeep Commander. The latter is available with either a turbocharged 1.3-liter bi-fuel motor or a 2.0-liter turbodiesel which sounds like a great fit for the pickup although nothing has been confirmed yet. Just like the mechanically-related Jeep model, the RAM-badged pickup will allegedly be manufactured at the Polo Automotivo de Goiana plant in Brazil.
We expect to learn more about the RAM 1200 as we move closer to its debut. Hopefully, Stellantis will replace the bulky camouflage with a thinner wrap in future prototypes so we can get a better idea of the exterior design.