- The RAM 1500 Direct Connect was introduced by Roush as a new off-road model.
- Powered by a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 producing 395 horsepower.
- Pricing for the package starts at $78,960.
The Ram RHO is an impressive off-road truck, but some enthusiasts criticized it for abandoning the supercharged V8 in favor of a turbocharged inline-six. So what do you do if you just want a regular V8, but don’t want a full-on TRX? The answer comes from an unexpected place.
Last month, Ram teased a new performance truck built in collaboration with Roush. Yes, the same Roush that is famous for tuning the Ford Mustang. The 2027 RAM 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4×4 by Roush is built on the RAM 1500 Direct Connection 5.7-Liter Hemi. This means it should make 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, as no power upgrades are specifically mentioned.
While the RHO is more powerful with its Hurricane high output inline-six, the Roush sounds better with its performance active cat-back exhaust. The truck also features selectable exhaust settings, letting drivers choose a quieter ride on the highway.
Roush gave the RAM 1500 a unique look that differs from the RHO and TRX. It gets a Sport Performance hood, hood vents, fender flares, paint-matched bumpers, red tow hooks, Night Edition package, TRX running boards, rear wheel liners, 18-inch performance wheels, 33-inch General Tire Grabber A/TX tires, and black exhaust tips.
Buyers can choose from one of five colors: Bright White, Diamond Black Crystal Pearl-Coat, Forged Blue Metallic, Granite Crystal Metallic, and Molten Red Pearl-Coat.
In terms of suspension upgrades, this truck is equipped with a Roush Performance 2.0 coil-over suspension system with custom-tuned twin-tube hydraulic dampers. With the 3.92 rear axle and E-Locker, the Roush should go sideways on dirt. The Trailer Tow II package ensures it still functions well as a truck.
The interior sees some special enhancements, including branded floor mats, center console and glovebox badging, and Mopar leather seats. The price for this package is $15,995, making the total package $78,960. For reference, the 2026 Ram RHO is priced at $76,590 with destination.
Motor1’s Opinion: The Ram 1500 Direct Connect by Roush fills the need for a V8-powered off-road performance truck that isn’t a TRX, and it’s priced under $100,000. It has a name that people will recognize and it should prove popular.
