In the heart of truck country, where tough machines get put through the wringer, one brand just keeps proving it's built different. At the 2025 Texas Truck Rodeo, Ram didn't just show up—they flat-out dominated, snagging four big-time awards that highlight everything from raw power to high-end comfort. This event, run by the Texas Auto Writers Association, tests the latest pickups on real roads, trails, and everything in between. It's no fluff; it's about what these trucks can actually handle day in and day out. And this year, Ram's lineup reminded everyone why they're the ones to beat when you're looking for a rig that works as hard as you do.
Let's start with the Ram 1500 Limited Longhorn, the truck that's been holding down the top spot like it's nobody's business. This beast took home the Full-Size Pickup Truck of Texas award for the eighth straight year, and on top of that, it grabbed Luxury Full-Size Pickup Truck of Texas for the tenth year running. That's not luck—that's consistent muscle and smarts under the hood. At its core is the tried-and-true 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine paired with eTorque tech, which mixes old-school V8 grunt with some modern efficiency tweaks to keep things smooth and strong.
Image credit: Ram
What really sets this truck apart, though, is how it feels inside and out. Picture sinking into seats wrapped in top-shelf leather, surrounded by genuine wood accents and all sorts of fine details that make long hauls feel like a breeze. It's not just about looking good; this thing's built for the long game. Journalists at the rodeo pushed it hard on paved roads and dirt paths, and it delivered with rock-solid towing, a ride that's easy on the back, and handling that doesn't quit. For guys who need a truck that hauls gear to the job site one day and takes the family out the next, the Limited Longhorn nails that balance of toughness and class without skipping a beat.
Then there's the newcomer that's already turning heads—the Ram 1500 RHO. This off-road monster charged right in and claimed the Off-Road Pickup Truck of Texas title, showing off what happens when you engineer a half-ton for serious dirt work. Under the hood, it's got the Twin-Turbo 3.0-liter HURRICANE inline-six High-Output engine, cranking out torque that hits hard and fast while still sipping fuel better than you'd expect from something this potent.
But power's only part of the story. The RHO comes with a fresh Direct Connection MagnaFlow exhaust system that gives it a deep, mean rumble— the kind that lets you know it's ready to rumble without being over the top. The setup includes a beefed-up suspension, smart 4x4 systems that adapt on the fly, and shocks tuned just right for bouncing over rough stuff. At Eagles Canyon Raceway, where the rodeo threw all kinds of challenges at it, the RHO handled trails like they were nothing. It's the truck for those weekends when you want to escape the pavement, maybe hit some backcountry spots or tackle a muddy job that lesser rigs would shy away from. Ram's focus here is on real-world smarts, not just flashy specs, and it paid off big.
Image credit: Ram
Not leaving the heavy hitters behind, the Ram 2500 Heavy Duty Warlock stepped up and won Heavy Duty Pickup Truck of Texas, proving that three-quarter-ton trucks can have style and substance without costing an arm and a leg. This one's powered by the 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel, a workhorse engine known for its pulling power that makes towing trailers, boats, or heavy loads feel straightforward and reliable.
Starting at just $57,165 with destination fees included, the Warlock brings a lot to the table for the price. It's got that aggressive look with blacked-out trim all around, a higher ride height for better ground clearance, and sturdy skid plates to protect the underbelly when things get rough. This trim's all about blending serious capability with a bit of attitude—perfect for the guy who's got a ranch to run, construction sites to conquer, or just needs a dependable partner for big jobs. During the rodeo's tests, it stood out for its no-fuss performance, whether hooking up to a heavy load or navigating off-road sections that demand more from a truck.
The Texas Truck Rodeo itself is a big deal in the automotive world, especially down in the Lone Star State where trucks aren't just vehicles—they're a way of life. Every year, the Texas Auto Writers Association gathers pros to evaluate the newest models head-to-head. They don't hold back: trucks get judged on handling that keeps you in control, tech that actually helps without getting in the way, comfort for those long drives, towing setups that inspire confidence, and off-road chops that prove they can handle Texas-sized challenges. From smooth highways to bumpy tracks at places like Eagles Canyon Raceway, it's all about separating the real deals from the pretenders.
What makes Ram's wins this year so impressive is how they cover the whole spectrum. You've got the luxury side with the Limited Longhorn, the off-road edge with the RHO, and the heavy-duty reliability with the Warlock—all under one brand that's clearly listening to what drivers need. It's not about chasing trends; it's about building trucks that last, perform, and make sense for everyday use. Whether you're clocking miles on the interstate, pulling a fifth-wheel camper, or venturing off the beaten path, these rigs show Ram's commitment to innovation that doesn't sacrifice the basics.
Looking back, Ram's track record at events like this isn't new, but this year's haul—four major titles—really drives home their edge. The 1500 series keeps evolving while staying true to what works, blending that classic HEMI power with updates that keep it fresh. The RHO brings high-performance vibes to the half-ton class, making off-roading more accessible without dialing back the thrill. And the Warlock? It's a smart entry into heavy-duty territory, offering premium features at a price that won't empty the wallet.
For anyone in the market for a new truck, these awards are a solid signpost. They come from folks who know trucks inside out, testing them in conditions that mimic real life. Ram's success here isn't hype—it's earned through engineering that prioritizes capability, comfort, and that intangible feel of a truck that's got your back. As the industry keeps pushing boundaries, Ram's showing they're not just keeping up; they're setting the pace.
In the end, the 2025 Texas Truck Rodeo wasn't just another competition—it was a showcase of what makes Ram stand tall. From the refined touches in the Limited Longhorn to the raw energy of the RHO and the practical punch of the Warlock, these trucks embody the spirit of getting things done right. If you're eyeing a pickup that combines power with polish, Ram's latest lineup is worth a serious look. It's proof that when it comes to trucks, experience and grit still win the day.
