American-Style Ridgeline - Dodge Rampage

ANDREW LUU AutoWeek Published 08/01/06, 9:03 am et - - The Dodge Rampage is a truck for nontraditional truck buyers, an idea already taken advantage of by the Honda Ridgeline. Though Rampage is a styling and parts exercise at this point, if the Honda ever becomes the truck of the masses, at least Dodge will have some precedent.

The Dakota-sized Rampage features a Chevrolet Avalanche-style midgate with flat-folding passenger and rear benchseats, plus a cargo bed that not only extends, but acts as a ramp as well.Dodge says the shapes and fabrics of the Rampage’s spacious interior are influenced by dirt bikes and athletic gear. It’s possible Rampage’s shifter-less push-button gearbox and floating center stack will see application in other future products. The stack pulls out and pivots left and right for easy access to the navigation and audio features.

A 5.7-liter Hemi V8 powers Rampage’s front wheels. Yes, front wheels. But remember: Rampage is aimed at the nontraditional truck buyer. Should the truck ever hit the market, Dodge says it will offer all-wheel drive.