New Dodge Ram Power Wagon and SRT-10 Quad Cab Coming in 2005

The upgrades brakes feature heavy-duty Ram components plus exclusive four-pot opposed-piston calipers, new for 2005. The

New for 2005, the SRT-10's brakes, framed in 22-inch alloy rims, feature heavy-duty Ram components plus exclusive four-pot opposed-piston calipers (see gallery for larger photo). (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

calipers are now painted red, gripping down on 38 centimeter (15 inch) front and 36 cm (14 inch) rear rotors, optimized by a 3-channel ABS system. Air ducts integrated into the front fascia cool the front binders.

That front fascia sports design elements derived from the domestic nameplate's NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series entry, particularly the sculpted sides and wind splitter. The ridged hood features a functional air intake for additional cooling. Covering the box, a body-color aluminum tonneau also aids in aerodynamics, finished off with a racy, removable spoiler.

A red dash-mounted starter button needs to be pressed to ignite the engine, while driver and passengers are held in place by

While designed for different tasks, the SRT-10 and Power Wagon will surely thrill all truck enthusiasts (see gallery for larger photo). (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

ultimately bolstered leather sport seats featuring alcantara inserts for added grip. The leather-wrapped, carbon fiber-patterned steering wheel is thick and purposeful, while brushed metal trim gives the cabin an upscale appearance.

While prices have yet to be announced for the new 2005 Ram SRT-10 Quad Cab, the 2-seat model is competitive at under $60,000. That's $10,000 less than Chevy's SSR, a $69,995 retro-style "sport" truck that, from a performance perspective, is outclassed by Chrysler's PT Cruiser GT at half the price, let alone the SRT-10.

While the Ram SRT-10 Quad Cab and Ram Power Wagon have very different agendas, both are at the front of their respective classes. The new Dodge performance pickups will go on sale this fall.