Ram introduces limited-run 2500 Code Black

RAM has introduced a special-edition version of its hulking 2500 pick-up, dubbed the Code Black, which adds a number of visual highlights to the already-imposing American truck and is priced from $149,500 plus on-roads.

Asking $10,000 more than its regular 2500 Laramie sibling, the Code Black is distinguished by a matte black grille, large black wheelarch flares, and 20-inch black alloy wheels fitted with 275/65 Nitto Terra Grappler all-terrain tyres, which Ram says blend off-road capability with on-road comfort and quietness.

It also gains black highlights on the front and rear bumpers, badging and side door mirrors.

No changes have been made to the 2500’s 6.7-litre turbo-diesel inline six cylinder engine, which continues with outputs of 276kW of power and an earth-moving 1084Nm of torque, ensuring a massive braked towing capacity of up to 6942kg depending on the towing arrangement used.

Power is sent to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission, while its off-road credibility is enhanced with a low-range transfer case and anti-spin rear differential.

Payload is rated at 913kg for its 3.27 square metre tray, supported by five-link coil rear suspension.

When the Ram range was updated in May, it also began offering an optional RamBox – lockable, weatherproof storage compartments built into the sides of the tray that can store 243 litres each.

The 2500 offers a number of interior features not always found on pick-ups, such as heated leather front seats with ten-way electric adjustment for the driver, heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, sunroof, 240V auxiliary power outlet and seating for six occupants.

All Austrlaian Rams are imported and converted to right-hand drive by American Special Vehicles and are offered with a three-year/100,000km warranty.

In the first half of 2017, Ram has seen an uptick in sales, moving 170 units to the end of June.

That figure is up 14.9 per cent from the 146 sold over the same time last year.