2014 Ram Power Wagon is bigger and badder than ever!

More, more, more. That's the philosophy behind the latest Ram Power Wagon. The extra-brawny, Ram 2500-based pickup is back for 2014, and naturally, it's even more extreme than its predecessor.

Like the rest of the Ram 2500 range, for 2014, the Power Wagon adopts the tweaked version of the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 found in SRT's eight-cylinder offerings. A healthy 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque best the old 5.7-liter Hemi's 383 hp and 400 lb-ft, while standard cylinder deactivation should help fuel economy. A six-speed automatic is the standard and sole transmission.

Those that know the Power Wagon, though, know there's more to this truck than its engine. Ram has increased the size of the American Axle-built rear axle from 10.5 to 11.5 inches with 4.10 gearing. Each axle sports an electronically locking differential. Finally, a manually engaged Borg-Warner transfer case is standard, in order to properly distribute power.

Ram's smaller 1500 is arguably the best-riding pickup on sale, thanks to its modern chassis tuning (and optional air suspension), which does away with old-fashioned leaf springs. Ram has taken a similar path with its bigger offerings, fitting a three-link front and five-link coil rear suspension. Ram is promising a more composed ride regardless of load, thanks to Bilstein monotube shocks at all four corners. That said, Ram hasn't forgotten where the Power Wagon made its name: off road.

The rear suspension setup provides a greater degree of articulation, while the new Articulink system on the front suspension, which includes a front-sway-bar disconnect, should also help with off-road prowess. Fitted with 33-inch Goodyear tires, the Power Wagon benefits from 14.5 inches of ground clearance. It can also handle up to 30 inches of standing water.

But remember: this is first and foremost a work truck, and it's outfitted as such. An electric Warn winch can handle 12,800 pounds, while a class five trailer hitch has been fitted, allowing the Power Wagon to tow up to 10,810 pounds. Off road, the big Ram's suspension work grants it a 34-degree approach angle and a 23.5-degree departure angle, while the breakover angle is 25.5 degrees.

Pricing for the Power Wagon starts at $45,690. That'll net you the base Tradesman version. Move up to the $50,340 SLT trim, and you'll get the red grille inserts, shown above (depending on the exterior color). SLT buyers will also get the look-at-me graphics, LED taillights and LED turn signals. The top-end Laramie starts at $56,015, and adds a chrome grille, a monotone paint scheme with painted wheel arches and polished wheels. The Laramie also offers some significant cabin upgrades, including leather seats. Basically, if you want everyone to know what sort of truck you're driving, buy an SLT. If you want to go under the radar (or as under the radar as a Power Wagon can get), go with the Laramie. Each price includes a $1,195 destination charge.

You can keep an eye open for the Ram Power Wagon during our coverage of the 2014 New York Auto Show, where it'll make its world debut. There's much, much more on the Ram Power Wagon in the big, official press release from Ram below, just after the video on the Power Wagon. Take a look, and let us know what you think of Chrysler's newest, most hardcore pickup.

As read on: http://www.autoblog.com/2014/04/09/2014-ram-power-wagon-truck-new-york-official/?ncid=edlinkusauto00000016