Ram 1500 Big Horn Vs F-150 Xlt: Which Full-size Pickup Truck Reigns Supreme?

In the realm of full-size pickup trucks, two titans stand tall: the Ram 1500 Big Horn and the Ford F-150 XLT. These beasts of burden have long been the darlings of the American automotive landscape, captivating truck enthusiasts with their ruggedness, versatility, and sheer brawn. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the depths of the Ram 1500 Big Horn and F-150 XLT, pitting them against each other in a battle of specs, features, performance, and overall value. Get ready for an epic showdown that will determine the ultimate champion of full-size pickup trucks.

Power and Performance: A Tale of Two Engines

Under the hood, the Ram 1500 Big Horn and F-150 XLT offer a range of powertrains to cater to diverse needs and preferences. The Ram 1500 Big Horn comes standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that delivers a respectable 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more muscle, the 5.7-liter V8 engine roars with 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, promising exhilarating acceleration and towing prowess.

The F-150 XLT, on the other hand, boasts a standard 3.3-liter V6 engine that produces 290 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. While slightly less powerful than the Ram’s base engine, the F-150 XLT’s optional 5.0-liter V8 engine cranks out an impressive 400 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, matching the Ram’s V8 output. Both trucks offer a choice of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations, ensuring optimal traction and handling in various conditions.

Towing and Payload: The Heavy-Duty Showdown

When it comes to hauling and towing, the Ram 1500 Big Horn and F-150 XLT are true workhorses. The Ram 1500 Big Horn, armed with its mighty V8 engine, can tow up to a staggering 12,750 pounds and carry a payload of up to 2,300 pounds. The F-150 XLT, with its equally capable V8 engine, matches the Ram’s towing capacity but slightly exceeds its payload capacity, hauling up to 2,500 pounds.

However, the F-150 XLT gains an edge in towing with its available Max Tow Package, which ups the ante to a maximum towing capacity of 13,200 pounds. Both trucks offer a range of towing and payload-enhancing features, such as integrated trailer brake controllers, heavy-duty suspensions, and advanced towing technologies, making them ideal partners for hauling heavy loads and tackling demanding jobs.

Interior and Comfort: A Battle of Amenities

Inside the cabins of the Ram 1500 Big Horn and F-150 XLT, comfort and convenience take center stage. The Ram 1500 Big Horn greets occupants with a spacious and well-appointed interior, featuring supportive seats, a user-friendly infotainment system, and an array of amenities to keep passengers entertained and connected.

The F-150 XLT matches the Ram’s comfort levels with its own spacious cabin, comfortable seating, and a state-of-the-art infotainment system. However, the F-150 XLT pulls ahead with its available features, such as a panoramic sunroof, heated and cooled front seats, and a premium audio system, transforming the truck’s interior into a luxurious oasis.

Safety and Driver Assistance: A Commitment to Protection

In the realm of safety, the Ram 1500 Big Horn and F-150 XLT come armed with an arsenal of advanced driver assistance technologies to ensure occupants’ well-being. Both trucks offer a comprehensive suite of features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, providing drivers with peace of mind and enhanced control.

The F-150 XLT, however, takes the lead in safety with its available Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 system, which adds adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, lane-centering assist, and evasive steering assist, elevating the truck’s safety credentials to new heights.

Fuel Efficiency: The Quest for Efficiency

While full-size pickup trucks are not renowned for their fuel efficiency, the Ram 1500 Big Horn and F-150 XLT make strides in this area. The Ram 1500 Big Horn, equipped with its V6 engine, achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The F-150 XLT, with its V6 engine, delivers similar fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Price and Value: Striking a Balance

When it comes to pricing, the Ram 1500 Big Horn and F-150 XLT offer competitive starting prices, making them accessible to a wide range of buyers. The Ram 1500 Big Horn has a starting MSRP of $36,500, while the F-150 XLT starts at $37,500. However, as you climb up the trim levels and add optional features, the prices of both trucks can escalate quickly, so careful consideration of individual needs and budget is essential.

The Bottom Line: The Verdict – A Matter of Personal Preference

In the epic showdown between the Ram 1500 Big Horn and F-150 XLT, there is no clear-cut winner. Both trucks are exceptional in their own right, offering a compelling blend of power, capability, comfort, and safety. The choice ultimately boils down to personal preferences, budget, and specific needs.

For those seeking a powerful and capable workhorse with a spacious interior and a range of advanced features, the Ram 1500 Big Horn is an excellent choice. If luxury, cutting-edge technology, and a comprehensive suite of safety features are paramount, the F-150 XLT stands out as the superior option.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Which truck has a more powerful engine?

• Both trucks offer powerful engine options, with the Ram 1500 Big Horn’s 5.7-liter V8 producing 395 horsepower and the F-150 XLT’s 5.0-liter V8 generating 400 horsepower.

2. Which truck has a higher towing capacity?

• The Ram 1500 Big Horn and F-150 XLT have identical maximum towing capacities of 12,750 pounds. However, the F-150 XLT’s available Max Tow Package increases its towing capacity to 13,200 pounds.

3. Which truck has a more comfortable interior?

• Both trucks offer comfortable interiors with supportive seats and user-friendly infotainment systems. However, the F-150 XLT’s available features, such as a panoramic sunroof, heated and cooled front seats, and a premium audio system, elevate its interior comfort levels.

4. Which truck has more advanced safety features?

• Both trucks offer a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance technologies. However, the F-150 XLT’s available Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 system adds adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, lane-centering assist, and evasive steering assist, providing enhanced safety features.

5. Which truck has better fuel efficiency?

• The Ram 1500 Big Horn and F-150 XLT have similar fuel economy ratings. The Ram 1500 Big Horn achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, while the F-150 XLT delivers an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.