New Armada, Power Wagon debut at Chicago Auto Show
Arriving in the fourth quarter, Ram's monster pickup starts out as a 2500 heavy-duty 4x4 crew cab but is treated to a Frankenstein list of factory modifications, including a 2.3-inch lift.
If that rock-crawling attitude isn't enough, a new, model-specific tailgate, hood, retro vertical stripe and blacked-out grille shout that onlookers are in the presence of a Power Wagon, a truck whose roots go back to Dodge military vehicles used in World War II.
The drivetrain is also exclusive, starting with the engine calibration for the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 (410 hp and 429 lb.-ft. of torque), standard locking front and rear differentials and beefed up axles and shafts.
The Tradesman drops the interior and exterior design elements, but includes the same Power Wagon off-road running gear, including the winch, locking differentials, up-sized tires, disconnecting sway bar, suspension and under-body shielding.
The off-road package is available in crew cab and mega cab, gas and diesel powertrains and short- and long-wheelbase models and all trim levels.
The BruanAbility MXV is based on Ford's 2016 Explorer and features a sliding door, removable driver and passenger seats, and a power in-floor ramp that's 28.5 inches wide.
Ford and BruanAbility donated an MXV to Life Rolls On, a nonprofit group dedicated to improving the lives of those with spinal cord injuries through activities such as adaptive surfing and skating.