Showdown Of The Titans: Ram 3500 Big Horn Vs Tradesman – Which One Reigns Supreme?

The Ram 3500 series, known for its exceptional towing and hauling capabilities, offers two popular trim levels: the Big Horn and the Tradesman. Both trucks cater to different needs and preferences, making it crucial to understand their distinctions. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Ram 3500 Big Horn and Tradesman, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements. Whether you’re a professional contractor, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a durable workhorse, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to choose the ideal Ram 3500 variant for your needs.

Exterior: Bold Presence vs Functional Simplicity

1. Design and Styling:

• Big Horn: The Big Horn trim exudes a bold and aggressive stance with its striking grille, chrome accents, and distinctive badging. It features body-colored bumpers, fog lamps, and 18-inch aluminum wheels, enhancing its overall visual appeal.

• Tradesman: The Tradesman trim prioritizes functionality over aesthetics, featuring a more utilitarian design. Its black grille, steel bumpers, and 17-inch steel wheels emphasize its rugged and no-nonsense character.

2. Convenience Features:

• Big Horn: The Big Horn trim offers convenience features such as power-adjustable and heated side mirrors, a remote keyless entry system, and a spray-in bedliner. These features enhance the overall user experience and practicality of the truck.

• Tradesman: The Tradesman trim focuses on essential features, lacking some of the creature comforts found in the Big Horn. However, it still provides manual side mirrors, a basic keyless entry system, and a durable bedliner.

Interior: Comfort and Refinement vs Practicality

3. Cabin Design and Materials:

• Big Horn: The Big Horn trim boasts a well-appointed cabin with premium materials, including cloth or leather upholstery, soft-touch surfaces, and chrome accents. It offers a comfortable and refined interior environment.

• Tradesman: The Tradesman trim features a more utilitarian cabin with durable materials, such as vinyl upholstery and hard plastic surfaces. Its focus on functionality prioritizes durability and ease of maintenance.

4. Comfort and Convenience Features:

• Big Horn: The Big Horn trim provides a range of comfort and convenience features, including heated and ventilated front seats, a dual-zone climate control system, and a premium audio system. These features enhance the overall driving experience.

• Tradesman: The Tradesman trim offers basic comfort and convenience features, such as manual air conditioning, a basic audio system, and cloth seats. It prioritizes functionality and affordability.

Performance and Capability: Power and Strength

5. Engine and Powertrain:

• Big Horn: The Big Horn trim is powered by a potent 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel engine, delivering 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.

• Tradesman: The Tradesman trim also features the same 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel engine, producing the same impressive power and torque figures. However, it offers a choice between a six-speed manual or automatic transmission and comes standard with rear-wheel drive.

6. Towing and Payload Capacity:

• Big Horn: The Big Horn trim boasts a maximum towing capacity of up to 31,210 lbs and a payload capacity of up to 7,680 lbs. Its impressive capabilities make it ideal for heavy-duty towing and hauling tasks.

• Tradesman: The Tradesman trim matches the Big Horn’s towing and payload capacities, offering the same impressive figures. Both trims excel in handling demanding workloads and challenging terrains.

Safety and Technology: Advanced Features for Peace of Mind

7. Safety Features:

• Big Horn: The Big Horn trim comes equipped with an array of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. These features enhance driver awareness and help prevent potential accidents.

• Tradesman: The Tradesman trim offers a more basic suite of safety features, such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction control. While it lacks some of the advanced features found in the Big Horn, it still provides a reasonable level of safety.

Which Trim is Right for You? Making the Informed Choice

The choice between the Ram 3500 Big Horn and Tradesman ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize comfort, refinement, and a range of convenience features, the Big Horn trim is the ideal choice. However, if you value functionality, durability, and affordability above all else, the Tradesman trim is the more suitable option. Consider your budget, intended usage, and personal preferences to make the informed decision that best aligns with your requirements.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Additional Factors

In addition to the key differences discussed above, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing between the Ram 3500 Big Horn and Tradesman:

• Customization Options: Both trims offer a wide range of customization options, allowing you to tailor the truck to your specific needs and preferences.

• Price Difference: The Big Horn trim typically carries a higher price tag than the Tradesman trim due to its more extensive features and refined interior.

• Availability: The availability of each trim may vary depending on your region and dealership inventory.

• Personal Preference: Ultimately, the choice between the Ram 3500 Big Horn and Tradesman is a matter of personal preference. Test drive both trims to experience their distinct characteristics and determine which one suits your driving style and requirements the best.

What People Want to Know

1. What is the primary difference between the Ram 3500 Big Horn and Tradesman trims?

The primary difference lies in their focus. The Big Horn emphasizes comfort, refinement, and convenience features, while the Tradesman prioritizes functionality, durability, and affordability.

2. Which trim offers a more powerful engine?

Both trims feature the same potent 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel engine, delivering identical power and torque figures.

3. Which trim has a better towing and payload capacity?

Both trims possess impressive towing and payload capacities, with identical figures for both.

4. Which trim comes with more safety features?

The Big Horn trim offers a more comprehensive suite of advanced safety features compared to the Tradesman trim.

5. Which trim is more expensive?

The Big Horn trim typically carries a higher price tag due to its enhanced features and refined interior.