2016 Ram 1500 Rebel boasts more attitude and off-roading ability (pictures)

In place of the Ram's traditional cross-hair grille, the Rebel wears a special blacked-out one with a contrasting silver "RAM" badge.

The blacked-out theme continues on the tailgate with the stamped "RAM" letters painted black.

Helping to improved the Rebel's off-road capabilities, the air suspension gives its a 1-inch higher ride height, special Bilstein shocks, different steering calibration, softer rear antiroll bar and 33-inch Toyo Open Country A/T all-terrain tires.

A 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is standard on Rebel 4x4 models offering 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque that features an EPA fuel economy rating of 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.

Upgrading to the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine costs $1,650, but gives the Rebel 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque to play with.

The RamBox side rail cargo compartments are a $1,295 option on the Ram 1500 Rebel.

On washboard dirt roads, the Ram 1500 Rebel's air suspension easily absorbed impacts from ruts and dips to provide a smooth ride.

With four-wheel-drive and an optional anti-spin rear differential, the Ram 1500 Rebel should boast fairly respectable off-road abilities.

The Ram 1500 Rebel is also available as a 4x2, but the only engine option with that configuration is the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine.

Inside the cabin, the most notable Rebel-exclusive item are the red and black seats with center inserts that have the tread from the Toyo tires embossed in them, and Rebel nameplate embroidered in the top of the bolsters. Other small touches include red and gray accent stitching, and trim pieces throughout.