2026 Ram RHO vs. Ram TRX Specs
For years, the Ram 1500 TRX was the undisputed apex predator of the truck world. With its supercharged Hellcat V8, it didn't just drive; it roared, drank fuel, and dominated everything in its path. But for 2026, the TRX has been retired, replaced by the all-new Ram 1500 RHO.
The biggest question we get at Champion Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Gulfport is simple: "Can a 6-cylinder really replace the Hellcat?"
On paper, it looks like a downgrade. You lose two cylinders and about 160 horsepower. But when you look at the engineering data, including weight balance, suspension tech, and torque delivery, the RHO isn't just a replacement. In many ways, it’s a better dedicated off-road truck.
Here is the cold, hard data comparing the legend (TRX) against the new challenger (RHO).
Tale of the Tape: RHO vs. TRX Specs
The TRX was a blunt instrument; the RHO is a surgical tool. The new 3.0L Hurricane High-Output (H/O) engine is lighter and more advanced, offering better weight distribution for flying over desert dunes (or Gulfport potholes) without nose-diving.
The Verdict: The TRX has more raw power, but the RHO converts its power to speed more efficiently. Notice the 0-60 time. Despite having 162 fewer horsepower, the RHO is only 0.1 seconds slower to 60 mph.
Why? Weight and Aero. The Hurricane engine sheds massive weight off the front axle, allowing the RHO to launch harder and handle sharper.
Suspension: The "Flying" Advantage
Power means nothing if you can't control it. Both trucks use the legendary Bilstein® Black Hawk® e2 adaptive shock system, but the RHO’s setup has been re-tuned for its lighter weight.
- Active Terrain Dynamics: The shocks monitor throttle, braking, and steering inputs to stiffen or soften automatically.
- Jump Detection: Yes, the truck knows when it's airborne. It automatically stiffens the dampers to prevent "bottoming out" upon landing.
- Travel: You get a massive 13 inches of travel in the front and 14 inches in the rear.
Because the RHO engine is lighter, the front suspension reacts faster to bumps. In high-speed desert running (Baja mode), the RHO feels more agile and less "nose-heavy" than the TRX.
Value: The $20,000 Difference
This is where the RHO wins the war. The final Ram TRX models were pushing well over $96,000 (and often marked up over $100k). The 2026 Ram RHO starts around $69,995.
You are getting 98% of the performance, better towing capacity, and identical suspension tech for nearly $30,000 less. For Gulfport drivers who want a daily drivable beast that can still tow the boat to Biloxi Bay, the RHO is arguably the smarter buy.
Which One Should You Buy?
- Buy the Standard Output (68RFE) If: You tow a modest fifth-wheel (under 18,000 lbs) or a boat. You want a truck that is comfortable to drive daily, shifts smoothly, and saves you money upfront.
- Buy the High Output (Aisin) If: You are a "Hotshot" hauler or haul heavy machinery (excavators, multi-car wedges). You need the 30,000+ lb towing capacity and the reliability of a transmission built for constant abuse.
Champion Tip: If you plan to "tune" or modify your truck, the 68RFE actually has better aftermarket tuning support. The Aisin computer (TCM) is locked down tight by the factory.
