2026 Ram 1500 Trim Guide: Tradesman, Big Horn, and Laramie Compared

The 2026 Ram 1500 lineup offers three distinct trim levels that cater to different priorities - from work-focused capability to refined comfort. Tradesman, Big Horn, and Laramie each deliver the same powertrain and towing performance, but with varying levels of equipment and features.

The return of the 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 engine with eTorque hybrid technology gives all three trims access to 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain includes variable camshaft timing and cylinder deactivation, delivering a maximum towing capacity of 4,613 kg (10,170 lb). All three trims are available in Crew Cab 4x4 configuration with a 5-foot, 7-inch bed, and each comes with a performance-tuned exhaust system as standard equipment.

Tradesman: Work-Ready Foundation

The Tradesman trim serves as the foundation of the Ram 1500 lineup, prioritizing function and durability. This configuration delivers the same powertrain and towing capability as higher trims while maintaining a straightforward equipment list focused on essential features.

Key features include:

• 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 with eTorque (395 horsepower, 410 lb-ft)
• 4x4 drivetrain
• Crew Cab with 5-foot, 7-inch bed
• Maximum towing capacity: 4,613 kg (10,170 lb)
• Performance-tuned exhaust system
• Cylinder deactivation for improved efficiency

The Tradesman is designed for buyers who prioritize capability and value over luxury features. Its straightforward approach makes it suitable for commercial use, fleet applications, or personal buyers who prefer a no-frills work truck.

Big Horn: Balanced Capability and Comfort

Big Horn adds comfort and convenience features to the Tradesman's capability foundation. This mid-level trim introduces technology and interior refinements that make daily driving more comfortable without sacrificing the truck's work-focused nature.

Notable additions include:

• Head-up display
• Digital rearview mirror with tow mode
• Enhanced interior materials
• Additional convenience features
• Same 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 powertrain
• Identical towing capacity: 4,613 kg (10,170 lb)

The Big Horn strikes a balance between work capability and everyday comfort. It suits buyers who use their truck for both professional tasks and personal transportation, offering enhanced features without moving into luxury territory.

Laramie: Premium Comfort and Technology

Laramie offers the premium end of the core Ram 1500 lineup, adding significant comfort and technology features. This trim maintains full capability while delivering a more refined ownership experience through upgraded materials and advanced features.

Laramie distinguishes itself with:

• Automatic air conditioning with dual-zone climate control
• Premium interior materials and finishes
• Advanced comfort features
• Full overhead console storage
• Same maximum towing: 4,613 kg (10,170 lb)

The Laramie targets buyers who want their truck to serve dual purposes: capable work vehicle and comfortable daily driver. Its enhanced features make long drives more comfortable while preserving the truck's fundamental capabilities.

Powertrain Performance Across All Trims

All three trims share the same 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 engine with eTorque hybrid technology. This powertrain delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, providing consistent performance regardless of trim level. The eTorque system enhances efficiency without compromising the HEMI's characteristic power delivery.

The engine features variable camshaft timing and cylinder deactivation, technologies that optimize fuel efficiency during lighter loads while maintaining full power when needed. The performance-tuned exhaust system comes standard across all three trims, contributing to both the engine's sound character and its power output.

Maximum towing capacity reaches 4,613 kg (10,170 lb) across Tradesman, Big Horn, and Laramie configurations, ensuring buyers don't sacrifice capability when choosing higher trim levels.

Choosing the Right Trim

Selecting between these three trims depends on how the truck will be used and which features matter most. Tradesman suits buyers focused primarily on capability and value, particularly those using the truck for commercial purposes or who prefer minimal features. Big Horn serves buyers who want enhanced comfort and technology without luxury pricing, making it suitable for those who split time between work and personal use. Laramie appeals to buyers who want their truck to deliver both full capability and premium comfort, particularly those who spend significant time behind the wheel.

All three trims deliver the same fundamental capability, including identical powertrain performance and towing capacity. The differences lie in comfort, convenience, and technology features rather than mechanical capability. This allows buyers to choose based on preferred feature content while maintaining confidence in the truck's work capability.

Experience the 2026 Ram 1500 at Brandon Chrysler

The 2026 Ram 1500 lineup offers capability-focused options across multiple trim levels. Our team at Brandon Chrysler can help you evaluate which configuration best matches your requirements and provide detailed information about available features and specifications.