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Ram has added yet another new model to its pick-up range, with the second-generation 700 best described as bite-sized.
In fact, if the 700 looks familiar, that’s because it’s essentially a second-generation Fiat Strada with Ram badges and a unique grille insert. Its reveal comes six months after that of its base monocoque model.
The Brazilian-built 700 sits below the 1000 (based on the Fiat Toro), 1500, 2500 and 3500 in the Ram’s line-up, meaning it is well and truly the baby in the family – in more ways than one.
Lifestyle-focused, the 700 is up to about 4500mm long, making it nearly a metre shorter than most models in Australia’s popular mid-size segment, including the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux and Mitsubishi Triton.
Single- and dual-cab pick-up body-styles are available for the 700, which has a maximum payload of up to 1143L and 750kg (1000kg is the standard here), while its braked towing capacity is up to 400kg (3500kg is the local benchmark), so it’s definitely not a workhorse.
Speaking of which, the 700 is powered by either a 63kW/118Nm 1.4-litre naturally aspirated engine or a 73kW/128Nm 1.3-litre turbocharged unit, with both options running on petrol. Needless to say, with either one under the bonnet, it’s certainly not a powerhouse either.
And if it wasn’t already obvious, the 700 isn’t a highly capable off-roader, with front-wheel drive standard and no all-wheel-drive option available, although an electronic locking differential is.
A five-speed manual is the only transmission on offer in the 700, with an automatic nowhere to be seen.
And for what it’s worth, the 700’s rough and ready cabin is highlighted by a 7.0-inch touchscreen multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.
The bad news? The 700 is set to be only available in the South American and Mexican markets, just like the Strada. Either way, it has all the makings of a rival for North America’s upcoming Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick.
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