up rocky trails where the Power Wagon’s softer suspension allowed for a smoother, more controlled ascent. You could feel it gliding over the terrain, effortlessly absorbing the bumps and jolts that would have sent the Rebel jarring. That plushness made a real difference when navigating through rugged landscapes, reassuring drivers that they could trust the Power Wagon to handle whatever nature threw at it.
On the other hand, the Rebel HD roared ahead, brimming with fortitude and determination. With its firmer suspension tuned for more aggressive off-roading—this truck is built to work hard, which is evident in its towing capacities and payload limits. If you’re the kind of person who hauls heavy loads with your truck daily, the Rebel HD meets that need with impressive strength. However, the trade-off comes in ride comfort—the bumps and thumps hit harder inside, reminding you that this machine is more of a workhorse than a leisure vehicle.
The competition, particularly with options like the Chevy Silverado HD ZR2 and the Ford Super Duty Tremor, serves as a formidable reminder that Ram needs to step up its game. By refreshing the Rebel and Power Wagon for 2025, Ram isn’t merely adapting; it’s showcasing a commitment to a segment it pioneered. Enthusiasts—those of us who clutch the steering wheel and feel the thrill of off-road adventures—are taking notice.
One of the significant changes is that Ram has shifted gears with the Rebel HD’s turbodiesel engine, a move likely made with the true laborer in mind. Let’s be real: if you’re working your truck harder than a dog in the sun, you want an engine that delivers power and reliability without faltering. The re-engineered Cummins inline-six offers a robust 1,075 lb-ft of torque, making it a tempting consideration when choosing between the Rebel and the Power Wagon. Sure, the Power Wagon may boast plush riding comfort and unparalleled off-road capability, but when it comes down to hefty hauling, the Rebel’s strength keeps drivers intrigued.
Even with its core advantages, the Power Wagon stays true to its off-road roots instead of competing directly with these heavy-duty contenders. While it shines brightly in the off-road arena, the truth is that its lower towing capacity positions it differently—from a conventional work truck to an adventurous off-roading companion. Those soft Bilstein shocks truly shine on every rocky path, cradling the driver and passengers alike with a comfortable ride that holds onto the spirit of leisure while defying ruggedness.
Ram’s executive team remains aware that potential enhancements, particularly the ongoing discussion about adding a turbodiesel option for the Power Wagon, hinge on customer demands and engineering possibilities. The clamor from Power Wagon fans reflects a desire for power, performance, and versatility that the current model offers but not in the diesel version. So, while a future with a Power Wagon turbodiesel may still hold its mysteries, the openness to explore new possibilities speaks volumes about Ram’s dedication to its loyal customer base.
For many of us, choosing a truck isn’t just about specifications—it’s about lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous escape into the great outdoors with your family or prioritizing power and capacity for work, Rams’ offering always beckons. As we navigate this competitive landscape together, knowing that the Power Wagon and Rebel HD are continually evolving only enhances our appreciation for their legacy in the off-road world. With each turn, bump, and climb, there’s an unmistakable character in these trucks that resonates, reminding us why we love this rugged lifestyle.As I maneuvered through a rugged mountain trail, I could feel the bumps and undulations jarring the truck. The Ram 2500 Rebel may have been equipped for off-road adventure, but without the electronic disconnecting front sway bar and front locker that the Power Wagon boasts, it struggled a bit more in these challenging conditions. At one point, I noticed a wheel was airborne, a sure sign of struggle as it fought for traction. Meanwhile, the Power Wagon seemed to glide effortlessly, keeping its front tires steadfastly on the ground and effortlessly adhering to the rocky surface—a reminder of how confidence can make all the difference in a tough spot.
Switching gears to traverse a few miles of broken gravel roads, I found the Power Wagon’s softer suspension to be a game-changer. I was zipping along at a speed that would’ve made a dentist cringe (sorry, fillings!). The Rebel, on the other hand, was less forgiving on the driver’s spine. It’s a might bit harder to maintain that carefree spirit when every bump has you gripping the wheel a little tighter. It’s a visual of two very different off-road philosophies—one that dances with the terrain and another that’s, well… bracing for impact.
Now, here’s where we need to dive deeper into why the Rebel exists in the first place. It’s a known fact that the Rebel had some compelling reasons for its launch. The Power Wagon, while a formidable off-roader, couldn’t quite keep up in the towing and hauling department when placed side by side with its competitors like the Ford Super Duty Tremor and the Silverado HD ZR2. The Tremor dominates with a staggering towing capacity of up to 18,200 pounds with a conventional hitch and an impressive 23,000 pounds with a gooseneck. And that’s not even factoring in its payload capacity of 4,384 pounds. The Silverado HD ZR2 gives it a run for its money, managing to tow 18,500 pounds and haul 3,397 pounds of payload. What’s more, it achieves that level of utility with cutting-edge technology, thanks to the Multimatic DSSV dampers—some of the most advanced shocks you can find in a production HD pickup.
Diving deeper into the Power Wagon and Rebel, they stand out in the market with their distinctive features like the standard front and rear electronic locking differentials and a robust winch standard on the Power Wagon. No competitor can boast a front locker or a sway bar that disconnects electronically, which gives the Power Wagon an edge in off-road capabilities.
Let’s talk aesthetics. The 2025 lineup has seen a makeover that adds a bit more character to the trucks. The front end has been refreshed with sleek headlights and grilles that give them a bolder presence. Sure, the headlights don’t really add any height, but the revised, stacked look gives off an impression of strength (even if it doesn’t fully translate in photos). The changes to the grilles, with both horizontal and vertical bars, contribute to this imposing stance—it’s almost a face-off with the terrain.
However, the rear of the trucks is a different story. It’s all about streamlining, almost as if the back end is saying, “Let’s get down to business.” The new taillights are simpler and ditch the quirky sideways turn signal design. They’ve adopted a clean, aligned look, reminiscent of the updates seen on the 2025 Ram 1500.
When it comes to wheels, the Power Wagon maintains its stronghold with 18-inch wheels wrapped in 33-inch all-terrain tires, while the Rebel sits on larger 20-inch wheels. Some might wonder, who really needs 20s for off-roading, right? Still, Ram’s insistence on those larger wheels is curious, particularly since 35- or 37-inch tires won’t clear the fenders without rubbing. Ford’s Super Duty Tremor is equipped with 35s right out of the gate.
Stepping inside the cabins of the 2025 Power Wagon and Rebel, there’s a sense of familiarity. Not much changes, which is a good thing—these trucks sport the nicest interiors in their segment, hands down. The centerpiece is the 12.0-inch touchscreen, which now has the option for an even larger 14.5-inch screen that incorporates digital buttons for controls. While some might find this change less than groundbreaking, it adds a layer of modernity without sacrificing usability.
One of the more noteworthy changes for 2025 is the introduction of a column-mounted electronic gear selector across the entire Ram HD range. Moving away from the previously used dash-mounted rotary shift knob after customer feedback is a win for many fans who had been voicing their opinions on the matter.
But let’s get down to the crux of the issue: the value proposition of these trucks. The 2025 Ram Power Wagon starts at $74,235, which is a hefty price tag—especially given it’s a little pricier than its predecessor. The Rebel HD isn’t far behind at $70,740 for the gas engine, which is also a rise from the previous model year. When pitted against the Ford Super Duty Tremor, which can tow almost as much and is equipped with a more modern gas engine at $61,880, the price disparity becomes a glaring concern. Even when you factor in the high-output turbodiesel, the Ford remains compellingly priced.
While both the Power Wagon and Rebel offer equipped hardware that outmatches competitors in some respects, there’s no denying that Ram has some ground to cover in terms of value. Off-road prowess is in their DNA, and it’s still a tale of two trucks. The Power Wagon stands strong with exceptional capability, while the Rebel has room to grow—perhaps a softer suspension, smaller wheels, and larger tire options could better meet the demands of the everyman off-roader.
It’s worth mentioning that this review is rooted in firsthand experience, thanks to the generous support from Ram during a memorable trip where tacos fueled our journey through the desert. Let’s just say, driving these trucks was an unforgettable part of our adventure in the great outdoors.
Image Source: Shane Lee Photography / Shutterstock
