If you’re looking to buy a new truck and know you’ll demand more from your vehicle than the Average Joe when it comes to getting off the pavement, a standard 4x4 package may not be enough. That’s exactly why more manufacturers are offering specialty trucks that boast improved off-road performance that won’t immediately send the buyer searching for aftermarket parts.

For this head-to-head shootout we are pitting the Ram 1500 Rebel against the Toyota Tundra TRD Pro, as these are the only two next-level off-road half-tons available in 2016. Call them off-road-plus packages or next-level off-roaders, whatever name you use these trucks provide off-road performance above and beyond the standard off-road package thanks to upgraded suspension, larger tires and unique appearances and styling cues. The trucks are fitted with upgraded parts that are tested, tuned and installed by the manufacturer, and best of all they are backed with a warranty (provided you don’t become a YouTube sensation by stupidly launching it off a Supercross-style jump).

Rebel vs. TRD Pro
There are quite a few things the Ram 1500 Rebel and Toyota Tundra TRD Pro share in common. Both trucks provide an additional two inches of lift over their standard counterpart, both are fitted with 5.7L V8s, both feature unique styling to set them apart from their respective lineups, and both are even fitted with dual exhausts… the list goes on.

But with all they share in common, both trucks are still unique. The biggest difference between the Ram Rebel and Tundra TRD Pro is their upgraded suspension, with the Rebel relying on an air suspension system while the TRD Pro utilizes large remote-reservoir coilover shocks to improve its performance and raise the truck. When it comes to the interior and exterior of each truck, both have their own set of styling cues and features, but we’ll get into more of that later.

For more breakdown on the specifications, check out the pages below on the 2016 Ram 1500 Rebel and 2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro:

Shootout Specifications: 2016 Ram 1500 Rebel 4x4

Shootout Specifications: 2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro

As is the case with all of our shootouts, we put these trucks through the ringer in both on- and off-road testing, we monitor fuel economy, tow with each truck, and much more. The winner of our shootouts is the best all-around vehicle, but along the way we hope to provide enough information so buyers can find the truck that best fits their needs – which is, without a doubt, the most important factor with any purchase.

With contributing editor Jaime Hernandez along for the ride, we hit the road to test these trucks. So without further ado, let’s get to it.

Next-Level Off-Road Half-Ton Truck Shootout
Jump to: Engine Performance, Speed

Jump to: Suspension, Handling, Towing

Jump to: Styling, Ergonomics, Features

Jump to: Scorecard, Results

Next Page... Next-Level Off-Road Half-Ton Shootout