Dodge Ramcharger

The Dodge Ramcharger is a large sport utility vehicle built by Dodge from 1974 to 1994 (and from at least 1986 until 2001 in Mexico) based on the shortened wheelbase of the Dodge D Series/Ram pickup truck chassis. A Plymouth version, named the Trailduster was offered from 1974 to 1981, the brand's only SUV.

First generation

During development, it was known as the "Rhino".

The Ramcharger and Trailduster were built using a nine-inch (228.6 mm) shortened pickup Chrysler AD platform that was introduced for 1972. First available in four-wheel drive with a rear-wheel drive only version available starting in 1975.

The 1974 through 1980 models came without a roof, with a dealer-installed fabric top, or an optional removable steel roof with a flip up rear tailgate window. The 1974 year model differs from the others in that its door pillars are attached to the removable roof. Marketed as a basic utility vehicle, only the driver's seat was standard equipment with the passenger seat optional up to 1976. Also available was an insulated center console for keeping items cool when filled with ice.