Going off-road? Check out the 2026 Ram 1500 Backcountry

If you're looking for a truck that can handle New Brunswick's backcountry trails without the premium price tag of a Rebel, the 2026 Ram 1500 BackCountry deserves a closer look. Ram built this package for buyers who want factory-tuned off-road capability - the kind that works on logging roads, cottage trails, and rough terrain between Moncton and the Fundy coast - without starting from scratch with aftermarket parts.

The BackCountry slots between the Warlock and Rebel in Ram's off-road lineup. It builds on the Big Horn 4x4 Crew Cab with a 1-inch suspension lift, heavy-duty shocks, underbody skid plates, 32-inch off-road tires, rear electronic locking differential, front tow hooks, and Selec-Speed off-road cruise control. Outside, it features body-colour accents with blacked-out lower panels and Satin Black 18-inch wheels. Inside, black vinyl bucket seats with mesh inserts, MOLLE panel seatback storage, and all-weather rubber floor mats provide durability.

What Makes the BackCountry Different

The BackCountry is a purpose-built package starting with the Ram 1500 Big Horn 4x4 Crew Cab. The 1-inch suspension lift with heavy-duty shocks increases ground clearance to 206 mm with skid plates installed (219 mm without), helping navigate ruts, rocks, and uneven forest roads while smoothing out rough trails.

Skid plates protect the front underbody, power steering rack, transfer case, and fuel tank from rocks and stumps. The rear electronic locking differential (ELocker) improves traction when one wheel loses grip, functioning as an anti-spin differential when disengaged, then locking both rear wheels together for maximum traction. Paired with 32-inch off-road tires, the BackCountry handles loose gravel, mud, and steep inclines.

Selec-Speed off-road cruise control maintains steady speed on technical terrain, handling throttle and braking while you steer - useful on steep descents or when crawling over obstacles. Frame-mounted front tow hooks provide recovery points if you get stuck.

Powertrain Options

The BackCountry offers two engines: the 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 eTorque or the 3.0-litre S.O. Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six.

The HEMI V-8 produces 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. Its eTorque hybrid technology uses a 48-volt belt-driven motor generator providing up to 130 lb-ft of torque on initial throttle tip-in, helping with low-speed acceleration and towing. Variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation (Fuel Saver Technology) improve efficiency when not hauling or towing.

The 3.0-litre Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six delivers strong torque across a wide RPM range, balancing power and efficiency.

Both engines pair with Ram's five-link solid rear axle, improving ride quality and handling over traditional leaf-spring setups. The BackCountry includes configurable drive modes with Off-Road Info Pages when equipped with the Level 2 Equipment Group.

Interior and Technology

The BackCountry's cabin features durable black vinyl bucket seats with alloy printed mesh inserts that withstand dirt, mud, and wet gear. The MOLLE panel seatback storage system allows direct attachment of pouches and bags to front seats. All-weather rubber floor mats come standard front and rear.

Satin Black BackCountry emblems appear on the tailgate and passenger-side instrument panel. Exterior styling includes body-colour grille surround and accents, with lower body and bumpers in Diamond Black Crystal Pearl-Coat. Contrast black fender flares add trail protection.

The Level 1 Equipment Group adds heated front seats, heated leather steering wheel, power-adjustable pedals, second-row in-floor storage bins, automatic dimming side mirrors with power fold and heat, LED courtesy lamps, and a rear power-sliding window with defrost.

The Level 2 Equipment Group upgrades to a 7-inch instrument cluster display, 12-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen, configurable drive modes with Off-Road Info Pages, 10-way power driver seat with lumbar support, dual wireless charging pads, dual-zone climate control, power tailgate release, and nine-speaker amplified audio.

The BackCountry Is Built for Real Use

The 2026 Ram 1500 BackCountry delivers functional off-road upgrades without the Rebel's premium price. The suspension lift, skid plates, ELocker, and off-road tires provide hardware for trails, logging roads, and rough terrain. The durable interior and MOLLE storage system make it practical for work and recreation.

Visit Moncton Chrysler Jeep Dodge in Moncton to explore the 2026 Ram 1500 BackCountry and see how it compares to the rest of the Ram off-road lineup.