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Experience Off-Road Excellence with Elevated Comfort

The Return of a Coveted Off-Road Package

Ram has announced the revival of its highly sought-after Rebel X package for the 2026 1500 series, adding a suite of desirable enhancements to the already capable Rebel model. This strategic move aims to bridge the gap between the core off-road Rebel and the more extreme RHO and TRX versions, providing a compelling option for a broader range of customers.

Exclusive Features and Unique Aesthetics

Setting itself apart from the regular Rebel, the Rebel X is exclusively powered by the 420-hp Hurricane turbocharged inline-six engine, foregoing the optional Hemi V-8. A standout innovation is the "Rough Road Cruise Control," a system that intelligently adjusts steering and throttle input to maintain a steady pace on challenging terrains at speeds up to 20 mph. Visually, the Rebel X distinguishes itself with unique "X-branded" bedside graphics and is the first half-ton Ram to showcase the new military-inspired "Tank" paint color, which will eventually be available across other 1500 models.

Luxurious Interior and Pricing Details

Inside, the 2026 Ram 1500 Rebel X elevates the driving experience with premium amenities. A distinctive glass-encased plaque on the center console proudly signifies its special edition status. It integrates all the advanced features from the Rebel's Level 2 package, including a 14.5-inch Uconnect5 touchscreen, a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, a front passenger touchscreen, dual wireless charging pads, and heated rear seats. Further interior upgrades include leather-trimmed heated and ventilated front seats with striking red stitching, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, a console-mounted shifter, and a panoramic sunroof, enhancing both luxury and functionality. The Rebel X is now available for order, with a starting price of $71,930, offering a competitive edge against the standard Rebel ($67,645), the RHO ($76,685), and the 2027 TRX ($102,590).

Gorden Wagener, the recently retired head of Mercedes-Benz design, has unveiled a previously unseen concept car, a contemporary homage to the legendary “Red Pig.” This muscular sedan draws inspiration from the iconic 300 SEL racing variant developed by AMG in the early 1970s, celebrated for its distinctive red hue and imposing size. The newly revealed concept showcases a bold chrome grille, striking circular LED headlamps, and a powerful, sculpted body, bringing a classic racing legacy into the modern era of automotive design.

A Modern Reimagining of a Racing Legend

In the dynamic world of automotive design, many innovative concepts never progress beyond the drawing board or the digital realm. However, former Mercedes-Benz Chief Design Officer Gorden Wagener, who recently concluded his tenure, brought to light one such compelling creation on Instagram. This impressive sedan concept is a direct tribute to the historic “Red Pig.”

The original Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3 AMG, affectionately known as the “Red Pig,” emerged during AMG's nascent years, long before its integration as Mercedes-Benz's official high-performance division. This unlikely race car achieved a remarkable second-place finish at the 1971 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, a feat that propelled AMG onto the global stage. Its vibrant paint scheme and formidable dimensions solidified its iconic status and earned it the enduring nickname, meaning “Red Sow” in German.

While Mercedes-Benz typically focuses on futuristic aesthetics, Wagener has previously explored modernizing the brand's heritage through various concept vehicles, including the vintage-inspired Vision Iconic and the C111-influenced Vision One-Eleven. This “Red Pig” homage seamlessly fits into this lineage, presenting a design that combines expansive, muscular bodywork with a broad, assertive stance.

The vehicle's front fascia is dominated by a square, chrome grille, reminiscent of the illuminated grille found on the new GLC EV. It is flanked by yellow LED lights that subtly evoke the Mercedes-Benz star emblem. Additionally, prominent circular auxiliary lights extend from the front, and the concept proudly sports a refined version of the original “Red Pig” livery. Although this visionary concept by Wagener will not enter production, its public unveiling, also featured in his book Iconic Design, offers a fascinating glimpse into the blend of history and innovation within automotive design.

Reflecting on Automotive Heritage and Future Visions

This unveiling of the modern "Red Pig" concept is more than just a design exercise; it's a profound statement about the enduring power of heritage in an industry constantly pushing boundaries. It reminds us that even as we strive for innovation, the stories and triumphs of the past continue to inspire. Wagener's concept not only honors a legendary race car but also challenges us to consider how iconic designs can be reinterpreted for a new generation. It highlights the delicate balance between reverence for history and the courage to envision a bold future, ultimately enriching the automotive landscape with both nostalgia and forward-thinking creativity.