The two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon is legendary, whispered in hushed tones around campfires and revered by those who understand true off-road capability. It’s a name synonymous with tackling the toughest terrain, a truck engineered from the ground up to conquer obstacles that would leave lesser vehicles stranded. With its distinctive look, impressive specifications, and a heritage rooted in hardcore off-roading, the Power Wagon commands respect. But in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape, does the two thousand seventeen model still reign supreme?
This article aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon, delving into its strengths, weaknesses, and overall value proposition. We’ll explore every facet, from its formidable off-road hardware to its interior comforts and daily usability, ultimately assigning a grade that reflects its position in the modern truck market. While showing its age in some areas, the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon remains a highly capable and unique off-road truck, earning a “B+” based on its exceptional off-road performance and distinctive character, but facing challenges in areas like fuel economy and interior technology.
Off-Road Capability: Untouchable in its Domain
The heart and soul of the Power Wagon is its unparalleled off-road capability. It’s not just a truck; it’s an off-road weapon, meticulously crafted to navigate the most challenging landscapes. This starts with its foundation: solid axles.
The Indomitable Solid Axle
Unlike independent front suspensions found in many modern trucks, the Power Wagon utilizes solid front and rear axles. These axles, while potentially compromising on-road comfort slightly, offer significantly greater strength and durability when the going gets rough. The robust construction is far less susceptible to damage from rocks and impacts, providing unmatched reliability in demanding situations. Solid axles also contribute to increased suspension travel, allowing the Power Wagon to articulate over uneven terrain with ease.
Traction Masters: Locking Differentials
One of the Power Wagon’s most significant advantages is its electronically locking front and rear differentials. These differentials allow the driver to force both wheels on an axle to spin at the same rate, ensuring maximum traction even when one wheel is lifted off the ground or loses grip on a slippery surface. This feature is invaluable for navigating obstacles like deep mud, loose sand, and rocky climbs. It’s the key to crawling through the most challenging terrains without losing momentum.
Flexibility Unleashed: Electronic Disconnecting Sway Bar
To further enhance articulation, the Power Wagon is equipped with an electronic disconnecting sway bar. By disconnecting the sway bar, the suspension is allowed to flex more freely, allowing each wheel to maintain contact with the ground even on extremely uneven surfaces. This maximizes traction and stability, enabling the Power Wagon to confidently navigate obstacles that would otherwise cause wheel lift and loss of control.
Winch Ready: Pulling Power to the Rescue
The Power Wagon comes standard with a powerful Warn winch integrated into the front bumper. This winch provides the ability to self-recover from difficult situations or assist other vehicles in need. With a generous amount of pulling power, the winch offers a significant advantage in remote areas where recovery services are unavailable. It’s not just a feature; it’s peace of mind.
Lifted and Ready: Suspension for Success
The Power Wagon boasts a factory lift and specifically tuned suspension designed to maximize off-road performance. This lift provides ample ground clearance, allowing the truck to clear obstacles without scraping its undercarriage. The suspension is engineered to absorb impacts and maintain stability on rough terrain, providing a comfortable and controlled ride even in the most challenging conditions.
Grip Where it Matters: Tire Selection
The tire selection on the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon is well-suited for off-road adventures. The tires feature an aggressive tread pattern that provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, including mud, rocks, and sand. The sidewall strength is also crucial for resisting punctures and tears when navigating sharp rocks and other hazards.
Conquering Trails: Real-World Prowess
The true testament to the Power Wagon’s capability lies in its real-world performance. From navigating steep, rocky trails in Moab to conquering muddy backroads in the Southeast, the Power Wagon consistently proves its mettle. Its combination of robust hardware, intelligent technology, and well-tuned suspension makes it a formidable force in any off-road environment.
Given its exceptional and focused engineering for off-road performance, the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon earns an A+ in this category.
Engine and Performance: A Reliable Workhorse, But Thirsty
Under the hood of the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon resides a stalwart six-point-four-liter Hemi V-eight engine. While not the most cutting-edge powerplant on the market, it delivers ample power and torque for both on-road and off-road duties.
Hemi Heart: Power and Torque
The six-point-four-liter Hemi V-eight produces a respectable amount of horsepower and torque. This grunt is essential for overcoming obstacles on the trail, hauling heavy loads, and maintaining comfortable cruising speeds on the highway. The engine’s smooth power delivery makes it predictable and easy to control, even in challenging situations.
The Price of Power: Fuel Economy Woes
One of the Power Wagon’s most significant drawbacks is its poor fuel economy. The combination of a large displacement engine, heavy-duty components, and aggressive tires results in significantly lower fuel efficiency compared to other trucks. This can be a substantial expense for those who use the Power Wagon as a daily driver or for long-distance travel.
Capable, Not Class-Leading: Towing Considerations
While the Power Wagon is certainly capable of towing, its towing capacity is not as high as some other trucks in its class. This is due in part to its focus on off-road performance, which necessitates compromises in other areas. However, it can still handle a reasonable amount of weight, making it suitable for towing trailers, boats, and other recreational equipment.
Capable, Not Nimble: On-Road Manners
The Power Wagon’s on-road handling is adequate but not exceptional. The solid axles and off-road-tuned suspension can result in a somewhat bumpy ride on paved surfaces. Steering can feel a bit vague, and body roll is noticeable during cornering. However, the truck is still manageable and comfortable enough for everyday driving.
Dated Technology: Transmission Lag
The six-speed automatic transmission, while reliable, is starting to show its age. Shift speeds are slower than more modern transmissions, and it can sometimes struggle to find the right gear in certain situations. This can impact both performance and fuel economy.
Considering the engine’s reliability and power delivery but acknowledging its fuel consumption and the transmission’s age, the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon receives a B in this category.
Interior and Technology: Functionality Over Frills
The interior of the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon prioritizes functionality and durability over luxurious appointments. While comfortable and spacious, it lacks the refined materials and advanced technology found in some newer trucks.
Spacious and Functional: Cabin Comfort
The Power Wagon’s cabin is spacious and provides ample room for both front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The layout is straightforward and easy to navigate, with controls that are logically placed and simple to use.
Durability Focused: Material Quality
The material quality inside the Power Wagon is decent, but it’s clear that durability was a primary concern. Hard plastics are prevalent, and the overall feel is more utilitarian than luxurious. While this may not appeal to everyone, it’s a practical choice for a truck that’s designed to withstand rugged use.
User-Friendly, Not Cutting Edge: Infotainment
The Uconnect infotainment system in the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon is relatively easy to use, but it lacks some of the advanced features found in newer systems. The touchscreen is responsive, and the menus are intuitive to navigate. However, the graphics are somewhat dated, and it doesn’t offer the same level of customization as some competing systems.
Basic Features, Nothing Extravagant: Technology
The technology features in the Power Wagon are fairly basic. It offers essential features like Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and available navigation. However, it lacks some of the more advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
Stuck in Time: Age and Design
Compared to newer trucks, the interior of the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon feels dated. The design is somewhat bland, and the materials lack the premium feel found in more modern vehicles. While still functional and comfortable, it’s clear that it’s due for an update.
Considering the comfortable cabin but acknowledging the dated design and limited technology, the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon earns a C+ in this area.
Practicality and Daily Use: A Trade-Off for Capability
The Power Wagon’s focus on off-road capability comes at the expense of some practicality and daily usability. Its large size, poor fuel economy, and somewhat rough ride make it less than ideal for everyday driving.
Standard Configuration: Bed Size
The bed of the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon offers standard functionality and sufficient space for work or recreational tasks.
Ample Space: Storage Capacity
The storage space inside the cabin is adequate, with plenty of room for small items in the center console, door pockets, and glove compartment.
Bulky and Inconvenient: Maneuverability
The Power Wagon’s large size makes it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces, such as city streets and parking lots. Its long wheelbase and wide turning radius can make it difficult to navigate narrow roads and parking garages.
Rigid Ride: Daily Driving Discomfort
The ride quality during normal driving conditions is somewhat rough, especially on uneven roads. The solid axles and off-road-tuned suspension transmit bumps and vibrations directly into the cabin.
Costly Commute: Fuel Consumption
As mentioned earlier, the Power Wagon’s poor fuel economy can make it expensive to operate, especially for daily commuting. Frequent trips to the gas station can quickly add up, especially with rising fuel prices.
Considering the practical limitations imposed by its off-road focus, the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon gets a B- in this category.
Value and Competition: A Unique Proposition
The two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon occupies a unique niche in the truck market. While not the most affordable or practical option, it offers unparalleled off-road capability that few other trucks can match.
Original Price Point: MSRP Consideration
The original Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon placed it in the upper echelon of the truck market.
Depreciation Factor: Current Market Assessment
Used models can be found at varying price points, depending on mileage, condition, and location.
Raptor Rivalry: Competition Landscape
The Power Wagon’s primary competitor is the Ford Raptor, which offers a similar blend of off-road capability and performance. Other potential competitors include the Chevrolet Colorado ZRtwo, and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, although these trucks are smaller and less capable than the Power Wagon.
A Class of Its Own: Unique Selling Proposition
The Power Wagon’s unique selling proposition is its combination of solid axles, locking differentials, winch, and factory lift. These features make it a formidable off-road machine that’s ready to tackle the toughest trails right out of the box.
A Solid Investment: Value Considerations
Whether the Power Wagon is worth the price depends on individual needs and priorities. If off-road capability is a top priority, then it’s a worthwhile investment. However, if fuel economy, on-road comfort, and modern technology are more important, then there may be better options available.
Given its unique capabilities but considering its price and compromises, the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon scores a B in this section.
Overall Grade and Conclusion
The two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon is a truck of contrasts. It excels in off-road capability, offering unparalleled performance and a unique set of features that few other trucks can match. However, it also suffers from poor fuel economy, a dated interior, and limited practicality for daily use.
Its strengths lie in its solid axles, locking differentials, winch, factory lift, and overall ruggedness. Its weaknesses include its poor fuel economy, dated interior design, and limited technology features.
Overall, the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon earns a B+. It remains a top choice for serious off-road enthusiasts who prioritize capability and durability above all else. Its robust hardware and unique features make it a standout in the truck market, even as newer and more technologically advanced models emerge. While it may not be the perfect truck for everyone, the two thousand seventeen Ram Power Wagon is a true icon that continues to inspire awe and admiration in the off-road community. It’s a testament to the power of engineering and the enduring appeal of a truck that’s built to conquer any terrain.
