RAM 1500 Trim Levels
Shopping for a RAM 1500 in San Luis Obispo, California? The RAM 1500 lineup covers a wide range of uses, from straightforward work trucks to off-road pickups and luxury models with premium interiors and advanced technology.
At Cole Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT , we help truck shoppers throughout San Luis Obispo County and California's Central Coast compare RAM 1500 configurations, engines and equipment. This guide explains the major differences between the RAM 1500 Tradesman, Express, Warlock, Big Horn, Laramie, Rebel, RHO, Limited, Limited Longhorn and Tungsten.
RAM 1500 Trim Levels and Starting Prices
| RAM 1500 Trim | Starting MSRP* | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Tradesman | $42,025 | Work, value and capability |
| Express | $44,150 | Value with sportier styling |
| Big Horn | $47,280 | Comfort, options and everyday versatility |
| Warlock | $52,865 | Off-road-inspired capability and appearance |
| Laramie | $61,480 | Premium comfort and technology |
| Rebel | $65,050 | Dedicated off-road capability |
| RHO | $73,795 | High-performance off-road driving |
| Limited | $76,405 | Luxury, technology and capability |
| Limited Longhorn | $76,900 | Western-inspired premium luxury |
| Tungsten | $88,800 | Flagship RAM 1500 luxury |
The RAM 1500 lineup isn't simply a ladder from basic to expensive. Different trims branch toward different uses. Tradesman emphasizes work, Big Horn balances equipment and versatility, Rebel emphasizes off-road driving, RHO adds high-performance off-road capability, and Tungsten represents the luxury end of the lineup.
You can also browse our current new RAM 1500 inventory while comparing the individual trims below.
RAM 1500 Tradesman
Starting MSRP: $42,025*
The RAM 1500 Tradesman is the work-focused starting point of the RAM 1500 lineup. It prioritizes capability, durability and value without requiring buyers to pay for luxury equipment they may not need.
RAM 1500 Tradesman Highlights
- Work-focused RAM 1500 configuration
- Available 4x2 or 4x4 capability
- Quad Cab and Crew Cab configurations
- Available 5-foot 7-inch and 6-foot 4-inch beds depending on configuration
- Multiple available engine choices
- Automatic transmission
- Available towing and trailering technology
- Practical interior designed for everyday truck use
Who Should Consider a RAM 1500 Tradesman?
Start with Tradesman if you primarily need a truck for work, towing, hauling or business use and want to maximize capability without moving into the more heavily equipped RAM 1500 trims.
RAM 1500 Express
Starting MSRP: $44,150*
The RAM 1500 Express builds on the value-oriented end of the RAM lineup with a more distinctive appearance. It can be an attractive choice for drivers who want a straightforward truck without the basic work-truck appearance.
RAM 1500 Express Highlights
- Value-focused RAM 1500 configuration
- Sportier exterior appearance
- Available 4x4 capability
- Automatic transmission
- Modern RAM infotainment and connectivity
- Available comfort and convenience equipment
RAM 1500 Tradesman vs. Express
Tradesman puts the emphasis on work and utility. Express retains the accessible end of the RAM 1500 lineup while adding a more street-oriented appearance for buyers who also use their truck as a personal vehicle.
RAM 1500 Big Horn
Starting MSRP: $47,280*
The RAM 1500 Big Horn moves the lineup toward additional comfort, appearance and available technology while retaining the versatility expected from a full-size pickup.
For many buyers, Big Horn represents the point where the RAM 1500 transitions from a primarily utility-focused truck into a well-equipped everyday vehicle.
RAM 1500 Big Horn Highlights
- Expanded comfort and convenience equipment
- Available 4x2 and 4x4 configurations
- Quad Cab and Crew Cab availability
- Multiple available powertrains
- Expanded wheel and appearance choices
- Available advanced infotainment technology
- Available towing and driver-assistance features
RAM 1500 Express vs. Big Horn
Express emphasizes value and appearance, while Big Horn gives buyers access to a broader range of comfort, convenience, technology and configuration options. Big Horn is particularly worth comparing if your truck will also serve as your daily driver or family vehicle.
RAM 1500 Warlock
Starting MSRP: $52,865*
The RAM 1500 Warlock takes the value-oriented side of the RAM lineup in a more rugged direction, combining distinctive styling with equipment aimed at drivers who want additional capability away from pavement.
RAM 1500 Warlock Highlights
- Rugged exterior appearance
- 4x4-focused configuration
- Off-road-oriented equipment
- Distinctive wheels and exterior details
- Automatic transmission
- Available towing technology
- Everyday pickup practicality
Who Should Consider a RAM 1500 Warlock?
Warlock is worth considering if you like the rugged side of the RAM 1500 but don't need the full equipment or performance focus of Rebel or RHO.
RAM 1500 Laramie
Starting MSRP: $61,480*
The RAM 1500 Laramie moves firmly into premium-truck territory. It combines RAM 1500 capability with additional interior comfort, technology and upscale materials.
RAM 1500 Laramie Highlights
- Premium interior appointments
- Expanded infotainment technology
- Additional driver comfort features
- Available advanced driver-assistance technology
- Available 4x4 capability
- Powerful available engine choices
- Premium exterior details
RAM 1500 Big Horn vs. Laramie
Big Horn emphasizes versatility and access to popular options at a lower starting price. Laramie moves toward a more premium driving experience with additional interior materials, comfort equipment and technology.
If your RAM 1500 will spend significant time commuting or traveling, Laramie is an important trim to compare with a heavily optioned Big Horn.
RAM 1500 Rebel
Starting MSRP: $65,050*
The RAM 1500 Rebel is designed for buyers who want substantial factory off-road capability without moving into the high-performance territory of the RHO.
Rebel is offered as a 4x4 Crew Cab with a 5-foot 7-inch box and combines off-road hardware with the comfort and technology expected from a modern RAM 1500.
RAM 1500 Rebel Highlights
- Standard 4x4 configuration
- Crew Cab body
- 5-foot 7-inch bed
- Off-road-focused suspension and equipment
- Aggressive exterior styling
- Off-road tires and protection
- Available powerful engine choices
- Premium interior and technology options
RAM 1500 Warlock vs. Rebel
Both lean toward the rugged side of the RAM 1500 lineup. Warlock provides an accessible combination of off-road-inspired equipment and styling, while Rebel goes further with a more dedicated off-road configuration.
RAM 1500 RHO
Starting MSRP: $73,795*
The RAM 1500 RHO takes the off-road side of the RAM lineup into high-performance territory. Its High-Output 3.0L Hurricane engine produces 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque.
RAM lists a 0–60 mph time of approximately 4.6 seconds, along with specialized suspension, drivetrain and drive-mode technology designed for high-speed off-road driving.
RAM 1500 RHO Highlights
- High-Output 3.0L Hurricane engine
- 540 horsepower
- 521 lb-ft of torque
- Approximately 4.6-second 0–60 mph
- Bilstein® Black Hawk® e2 shock system
- BorgWarner full-time active transfer case
- Dana® 60 rear axle
- Nine available drive modes
- Up to 8,360 pounds of towing capacity
- Up to 1,490 pounds of payload capacity
RAM 1500 Rebel vs. RHO
Rebel is the more traditional off-road RAM 1500, combining trail-oriented hardware with everyday truck usability. RHO is designed around a different mission: substantially more horsepower and specialized equipment for high-performance off-road driving.
RAM 1500 Limited
Starting MSRP: $76,405*
The RAM 1500 Limited combines full-size truck capability with a luxury-oriented cabin and extensive technology.
RAM 1500 Limited Highlights
- Luxury-focused interior
- Premium seating and materials
- Advanced infotainment technology
- Available passenger-side display technology
- Advanced driver-assistance features
- Available premium audio
- Powerful Hurricane engine availability
- Available 4x4 capability
Who Should Consider a RAM 1500 Limited?
Limited is aimed at buyers who need the capability of a pickup but want their truck to provide the comfort, technology and refinement associated with a premium vehicle.
RAM 1500 Limited Longhorn
Starting MSRP: $76,900*
The RAM 1500 Limited Longhorn combines premium RAM 1500 equipment with distinctive Western-inspired design details.
RAM 1500 Limited Longhorn Highlights
- Premium leather-trimmed interior
- Distinctive Western-inspired design
- Premium interior materials
- Advanced infotainment technology
- Available premium audio
- Advanced driver-assistance technology
- Available 4x4 capability
- Powerful available engine choices
RAM 1500 Limited vs. Limited Longhorn
Limited and Limited Longhorn occupy similar premium territory but have different personalities. Limited has a more contemporary luxury presentation, while Limited Longhorn uses distinctive Western-inspired materials and design details.
For shoppers comparing these two trims, the decision often comes down to interior and exterior design preference rather than a simple hierarchy.
RAM 1500 Tungsten
Starting MSRP: $88,800*
The RAM 1500 Tungsten is the flagship luxury trim of the RAM 1500 lineup. It combines premium materials, extensive technology and high-output performance in a full-size pickup.
RAM 1500 Tungsten Highlights
- Flagship RAM 1500 interior
- Premium leather seating and upscale materials
- Extensive digital display technology
- Advanced infotainment and connectivity
- Premium audio technology
- Advanced driver-assistance features
- High-Output Hurricane performance
- Premium exterior detailing
RAM 1500 Limited vs. Tungsten
Limited already provides a luxury-oriented RAM 1500 experience. Tungsten takes that concept further with flagship materials, technology and presentation.
If you're deciding between them, Limited provides much of the premium RAM experience at a lower starting price, while Tungsten represents the top luxury expression of the RAM 1500.
RAM 1500 Engine Options
The current RAM 1500 lineup offers four gasoline powertrains, ranging from the 3.6-liter Pentastar® V6 to the 540-horsepower High-Output Hurricane. The 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 is also available again on select RAM 1500 models.
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Maximum Towing* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar® V6 with eTorque | 305 hp | 269 lb-ft | Up to 8,130 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI® V8 with eTorque | 395 hp | 410 lb-ft | Up to 11,320 lbs |
| 3.0L Hurricane Twin-Turbo I6 | 420 hp | 469 lb-ft | Up to 11,610 lbs |
| High-Output 3.0L Hurricane Twin-Turbo I6 | 540 hp | 521 lb-ft | Up to 10,000 lbs |
All four powertrains pair with an automatic transmission. Engine availability varies by trim, cab, drivetrain and configuration.
RAM 1500 HEMI V8 vs. Hurricane
The available 5.7L HEMI® V8 produces 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque and appeals to buyers who prefer the character and sound of a naturally aspirated V8.
The standard-output 3.0L Hurricane increases output to 420 horsepower and 469 lb-ft of torque while providing the RAM 1500's highest available maximum towing rating of 11,610 pounds in the proper configuration.
The High-Output Hurricane shifts the emphasis toward performance with 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque.
How Much Can a RAM 1500 Tow?
Maximum RAM 1500 towing capacity depends on the engine, drivetrain, cab, bed, axle ratio and other equipment.
| Powertrain | Maximum Available Towing* | Maximum Available Payload* |
|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar® V6 | 8,130 lbs | 2,360 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI® V8 | 11,320 lbs | 1,650 lbs |
| 3.0L Hurricane | 11,610 lbs | 1,930 lbs |
| High-Output 3.0L Hurricane | 10,000 lbs | 1,490 lbs |
If towing is one of your main reasons for buying a truck, don't choose based on trim name alone. Two RAM 1500 trucks within the same trim can have different towing ratings because of their drivetrain, cab, bed, engine and equipment.
Our team at Cole RAM can help you check the specific towing and payload ratings of an in-stock truck before you buy.
Which RAM 1500 Trim Is Right for Me?
| If Your Priority Is... | Start By Comparing... |
|---|---|
| Work and value | Tradesman |
| Affordable truck with sportier styling | Express |
| Everyday comfort and versatility | Big Horn |
| Rugged styling and capability | Warlock |
| Premium daily driving | Laramie |
| Dedicated off-road capability | Rebel |
| High-performance off-road driving | RHO |
| Contemporary luxury | Limited |
| Western-inspired luxury | Limited Longhorn |
| Flagship luxury and technology | Tungsten |
Shop RAM 1500 Trucks in San Luis Obispo, CA
If you're shopping for aRAM 1500 for sale in San Luis Obispo , visit Cole Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT. We serve truck shoppers throughout San Luis Obispo County and California's Central Coast, includingSan Luis Obispo, Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, Grover Beach, Morro Bay, Atascadero and Paso Robles .
Compare available RAM 1500 trims, engines, cab configurations, bed lengths and option packages in person. If you don't see the exact combination you want, our team can also help you custom order a new RAM 1500 with the equipment and configuration that fits your needs.
Find Your RAM 1500 at Cole RAM
Compare our current RAM 1500 inventory, get a trade value, explore financing or contact our San Luis Obispo team to arrange a test drive.
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Frequently Asked Questions About RAM 1500 Trim Levels
What are the RAM 1500 trim levels?
The current RAM 1500 lineup includes Tradesman, Express, Warlock, Big Horn, Laramie, Rebel, RHO, Limited, Limited Longhorn and Tungsten.
What is the least expensive RAM 1500 trim?
Tradesman has the lowest starting MSRP in the current RAM 1500 lineup at $42,025.
What is the difference between RAM 1500 Tradesman and Big Horn?
Tradesman emphasizes work, utility and value. Big Horn adds access to more comfort, appearance and technology equipment, making it especially attractive for buyers who also use their truck as an everyday vehicle.
What is the difference between RAM 1500 Big Horn and Laramie?
Big Horn provides a broad selection of popular comfort and convenience options at a lower starting price. Laramie moves further into premium-truck territory with additional interior materials, comfort features and technology.
What is the difference between RAM 1500 Warlock and Rebel?
Both emphasize rugged capability and appearance. Warlock provides an accessible off-road-oriented configuration, while Rebel adds more specialized factory equipment for drivers who plan to spend more time off pavement.
What is the difference between RAM 1500 Rebel and RHO?
Rebel is an off-road-focused RAM 1500 designed for trail capability. RHO adds a 540-horsepower High-Output Hurricane engine and specialized high-performance suspension and drivetrain equipment.
Which RAM 1500 has the most horsepower?
RAM 1500 models equipped with the High-Output 3.0L Hurricane engine can produce up to 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque.
Can you get a RAM 1500 with a HEMI V8?
Yes. The 5.7L HEMI® V8 with eTorque is available on select current RAM 1500 configurations. It produces 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque.
How much can a RAM 1500 tow?
Maximum towing capacity depends on configuration. A properly equipped RAM 1500 can tow up to 11,610 pounds.
How much payload can a RAM 1500 carry?
A properly equipped RAM 1500 can provide up to 2,360 pounds of maximum available payload capacity. Actual payload varies based on engine, drivetrain, cab, bed and installed equipment.
What is the most luxurious RAM 1500 trim?
Tungsten is the flagship luxury trim in the current RAM 1500 lineup, combining premium interior materials, extensive technology and high-output performance.
Where can I buy a RAM 1500 in San Luis Obispo?
Cole Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT in San Luis Obispo offers new RAM 1500 trucks and serves customers throughout San Luis Obispo County and California's Central Coast. Shop available RAM 1500 inventory.