Ram CEO Hints at Desire for a Mid-Size Truck

Ram is the last major U.S. truck brand without a mid-size pickup, but CEO Tim Kuniskis has made it clear that he wants to change that. Speaking at the 2025 Detroit Auto Show, Kuniskis expressed his enthusiasm for introducing a mid-size Ram to compete with established models like the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, and Chevrolet Colorado.

Why Ram Needs a Mid-Size Truck

Kuniskis emphasized the growing demand for more affordable alternatives as vehicle prices continue to rise. “Everything is more expensive. Trucks are way more expensive,” he explained. He also highlighted the gap left by the discontinuation of the Ram Classic, which once served as a budget-friendly option in Ram’s lineup.

“We need an awesome, capable mid-size truck to fill that gap,” Kuniskis added, hinting at his personal passion for the project.

Past Rumors and Potential Options

Rumors about a Ram mid-size pickup have circulated for years:

• 2023 UAW Statements: Union Vice President Rich Boyer claimed that a mid-size truck would be built at the former Jeep Cherokee plant in Belvidere, Illinois. However, Ram did not confirm this, and reports suggest the plant may not reopen until 2028, with no official plans announced for its production.
• Existing Stellantis Models:
  • The Ram 1200, a rebadged Fiat Titano, is sold in global markets. While it features a body-on-frame design, its styling may not align with U.S. consumer preferences.
  • The Ram Rampage, another contender, is more in line with compact trucks like the Ford Maverick and may not meet the needs of traditional mid-size buyers.

Ram’s Vision for a Mid-Size Entry

While Kuniskis did not share specifics about an upcoming model, his comments suggest that Ram aims to create a competitive, purpose-built mid-size truck tailored to the U.S. market.

“We’ve got a lot of room to grow with the right product,” Kuniskis said, adding that he hopes to provide a capable and appealing truck for customers priced out of full-size options.

Competition Heats Up

The mid-size truck segment has grown increasingly competitive, with recent updates to stalwarts like the Tacoma and the debut of new models such as the GMC Canyon AT4X. For Ram to succeed, its mid-size entry will need to stand out with a blend of capability, design, and affordability.

Kuniskis’s enthusiasm suggests Ram is serious about the endeavor, and fans of the brand may not have to wait too long before an official announcement.