Can you fall in love with a truck?

When it’s a RAM 1500 Rebel equipped with a host of off-road specialty equipment and a load, throaty exhaust, the answer – at least, for me – is a resounding YES.

The Ram 1500 was fully redesigned for model year 2019, and it’s more of the same. And when I say more of the same, I mean more of the same innovation and attention to detail. First, the brand reduced the weight of the 1500 by more than 200 pounds, and at the same time increased the payload and towing capacity. On top of that, a mild hybrid power system (called eTorque) made its debut.

Available in seven trim levels (Tradesman, HFE, Big Horn, Rebel, Laramie, Longhorn and Limited), the 1500 is in its fifth generation and is competitive. The Tradesman is spare and designed to work hard, the Big Horn is right in the middle with comfort touches and durable exterior, and the Limited is a luxury car in truck form. Standard on all trims is a 3.6L V6 (305 hp, 269 lb-ft of torque). The optional upgrade (not available on the HFE) is a 5.7L V8 generating 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque.

Mopar accessories on tap

The RAM 1500 is one of the most-accessorized vehicles with over 200 options available. The vehicle I tested this time around was a Mopar Rebel, which has all of the thrills and chills of off-roading ruggedness and a smattering of accessories that contribute to the look and feel of this truck. This truck was made for mud and off-pavement adventures, and we put it to the test.

Add-ons included:

Off-road running boards
Off-road wheel flares
RAM bar with five-inch LED lights
Door sill guards
Mopar cat-back exhaust

What the %^& is a cat-back exhaust?

According to Auto Anything, a cat-back exhaust system is a simple power modification that frees up your exhaust gas flow and produces a fierce engine note. The term “cat-back exhaust” can be defined as the section of an exhaust system that attaches after the last catalytic converter in the system. Aftermarket exhaust systems are designed to be freer flowing than a stock exhaust, which means the engine can release more horsepower and torque. What you can’t see, you can hear: the roar is definitely noticeable. In the best ways, of course.

Get DECKED

In the bed of this RAM 1500 Rebel, a DECKED system had been installed, sporting two full bed-length drawers. For an additional $1,150 for a 5’7” bed length, the DECKED system is made from 100% recycled HDPE (high density polyethylene, commonly known as plastic) co-molded to a galvanized recycled steel subframe. The drawers can hold 200 pounds each, and they’re weatherproof, including rain, snow, extreme UV light, and severe temperatures.

What I liked about the DECKED system is that it requires no drilling or alteration of the truck whatsoever. The oversized handles are designed for use with gloves and made for work, but it’s just as capable and useful for a drawer full of groceries, tailgating supplies, camping gear, or sports equipment. What you might consider, if you like the idea of the DECKED system, is that it does not work with the RamBox Cargo Management system. Nor is it compatible with any in-bed towing packages like 5th Wheel and Gooseneck packages.