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2021 Ram 2500 Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

2021 Ram 2500 Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: Tradesman vs Bighorn vs Power Wagon, Laramie, Longhorn & Limited
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

What 2021 Ram 2500 Trim Level Should you Buy? What is the Difference Between Trims?

Big, powerful, and full of life, the 2021 Ram 2500 is the vision of hard work and determination. As a truck that comes from a long line of reputable pickup models and unique design configurations, the 2021 Ram 2500 seeks to continue this tradition of excellence and reliability. Ram trucks are renowned for their grit and durability, and the 2021 Ram 2500 is no different. Staying true to its namesake, this pickup truck has immense towing capacity and ample power to complete even the biggest jobs. Differing greatly from its Ram 3500 relative, the 2500 has its own characteristics that are unique to this specific model.

Enhanced with six different trim level options, you can find almost anything you are looking for in this pickup truck model. From basic features to upscale interior quality to workhorse tendencies, each 2021 Ram 2500 trim is special in its own way. In fact, this truck boasts three different cab configurations, two varying bed size selections, dual powertrain options, and two different drivetrain setup selections. To say that this truck does not meet the needs of consumer customization expectations would be an inaccurate statement.

With so many options to choose from, navigating through the various 2021 Ram 2500 trim levels can be difficult. Feel free to use the guide below to sort through the highlights or each trim level to see which 2021 Ram 2500 might be the right fit for you.

Compare the 2021 Ram 2500 Tradesman vs Big Horn Trim. What is the difference?

Coming in as the most economical option with the most basic features, the 2021 Ram 2500 Tradesman is a great place to start. Gaining access to all the heavy-duty features this model is known for, the Tradesman makes this truck available to those consumers on a budget. A standard 6.4-liter V8 engine accompanies both the Tradesman and Big Horn trim levels allowing them both to produce up to 410 horsepower. They are both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive options. Optional upgrades for both models also consist of a six-speed automatic transmission and a 6.7-liter V6 engine.

As we begin to look further into the appearance and layout of the 2021 Ram 2500 Tradesman and Big Horn models, a few differences become apparent. While the Tradesman trim level features regular cab and crew cab layouts, the Big Horn takes it a step further an adds in a mega cab configuration. This allows the 2021 Ram 2500 to go from seating just three passengers in its Tradesman regular cab to five or six passengers in its Big Horn mega cab layout. The addition of a bench front seat allows for more passengers. For those with larger families or big work crews that require transportation, the ability to seat more passengers is always a welcome improvement.

Compare the 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn vs Power Wagon. What is the difference?

For buyers who prefer a bit more chrome on their traditional work truck, the 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn is a great option. Yet, if you are one who prefers an off-road feel in your pickup truck, the Power Wagon is a better fit. Everything that is different between these two trim levels is focused on the various uses of each. For example, the 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn features multiple cab configurations, bed sizes, and a Sport Appearance Package. However, the Power Wagon takes it to the next level with a single crew cab configuration and 6.25-foot bed. Equipped with 17-inch tires that make off-roading a breeze and Tru-Lok differentials, the Power Wagon was made to balance work and play.

Using the same 6.4-liter V8 HEMI as the Big Horn, the Power Wagon can get great traction and power through various terrain elements. The 2021 Ram 2500 Power Wagon also boasts an exterior appearance that stays true to its sporty aesthetic. A bold front grille is accompanied by namesake wallpaper on the bed and an optional RamBox for extra storage. Though the Big Horn offers powerful clearance headlights and strong fog lights, buyers can tell this model is geared more toward the working class.

Compare the 2021 Ram 2500 Power Wagon vs Laramie Trim Level. What is the difference?

Despite its confident exterior, the 2021 Ram 2500 Power Wagon still relies on cloth seats on the inside. A shifter than is mounted on the floor is used to interject four-wheel drive, but it also gives buyers a feel of the older style Ram trucks. While the Power Wagon seeks to manage the balance between old and new, the Laramie forges full speed ahead into the future. Its leather seats, parking assistance features, and premium Alpine stereo set the stage for what we can expect from the 2021 Ram 2500 Laramie.

What was once a top trim in the Ram lineup has now manifested itself in the middle of the 2021 Ram 2500 offerings. The Laramie has been reduced to a more practical pickup option that is equipped with accommodating amenities and good-looking exterior appeal. Like the Big Horn, the 2021 Ram 2500 Laramie also offers crew cab and mega cab options that improve passenger space and seating capacity. Yet, the Laramie also implements several tow cameras that enhance both its functionality and tech appeal to buyers. Additional techy amenities include heated seats in the second row, running boards that are power deployable, and adaptive steering capability.

Compare the 2021 Ram 2500 Laramie vs Laramie Longhorn Trim. What is the difference?

Similar in name, yet not so similar in style, the 2021 Ram 2500 Laramie and Laramie Longhorn are different in many aspects. While the Laramie is bit more of an advanced pickup truck, the Laramie Longhorn maintains these features but merges them with a more western look. Complete with wood finishes and leather that has a saddle soap aroma, the Laramie Longhorn has a rustic appeal. Even the logo of this pickup truck is branded into the interior storage compartment with an actual branding iron. It simply does not get more rugged than that.

With everything from the powertrain options to the available cab configurations begin identical to the Laramie trim, the Laramie Longhorn incorporates more interior luxury elements that set this trim level apart from its relative. Features like specialized color schemes, heated front and rear seats, and an infotainment screen that is larger than life gives the interior of the Laramie Longhorn a look that is completely unique and upscale. Visually-pleasing exterior elements are also at play in this model. In fact, the 2021 Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn offers off-road tires as an upgrade, as well completely painted side steps.

Compare the 2021 Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn vs Limited Trim.  What is the difference?

As we reach the top of the lineup for the 2021 Ram 2500, you can expect to see the variety and complexity of both interior and exterior features advance. Though both the 2021 Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn and Limited feature their fair share of luxury features and a powerful stance, the Limited goes above and beyond what it takes to be memorable. Sleek and sophisticated, the Limited elicits a different feel than the rugged and western Laramie Longhorn. Ready for a night out on the town, the Limited boasts chrome 20-inch wheels a standard RamBox, and a plethora of driver-assistive safety features. Complete with greyscale colors, the exterior colors of the Limited are only available by special order on the Laramie Longhorn.

Despite the innate differences of the Laramie Longhorn and the Limited on the outside, these two pickup trucks are nearly identical in their interior facets. A huge infotainment screen and variety of control switches adorn the dash of both models giving them a rather prestigious feel. Equipped with serious style and power, buyers can get the best of both worlds in either the 2021 Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn or Limited.

Which Trim to Choose?

Deciding on the purchase of a 2021 Ram 2500 is the first step to investing in a pickup truck that will last if you need it to. Both rugged and upscale, the 2021 Ram 2500 does a good job of balancing the attributes that buyers find the most substantial in a pickup truck model. Consisting of six trim level options, the 2021 Ram 2500 varies from basic and economical to upscale and spirited. There is something for every buyer in the 2021 Ram 2500 lineup, and this automaker set out to prove it in their most recent Ram truck release.

With so many options to choose from, narrowing down the trim levels to your preferred 2021 Ram 2500 can take a while. Yet, by utilizing this guide we hope to answer some of the most frequent questions consumers have about 2021 Ram 2500 models. While most of the 2021 Ram 2500 models are straightforward, each trim level has its own unique features to add to the lineup. It would be rare for a consumer to not be able to access a model that suited them well. In fact, the 2021 Ram 2500 is one of the most versatile, heavy-duty trucks currently available on the market.

For those looking for a basic work truck or weekend pickup, the base Tradesman model is an excellent option. Even in this entry-level truck model, the Tradesman sports many more upscale attributes than the competition. Giving the base model a bit more amenities and feature upgrades is the Big Horn trim. Also available at a great price for the feature it includes, the 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn is one of the most popular models for this pickup truck.

Outdoor enthusiasts and off-road thrill-seekers will find everything they need for a good time in the 2021 Ram 2500 Power Wagon. While this truck's name may draw attention to its bold engine, this truck is so much more than horsepower and torque. While these are good attributes to have, the Power Wagon also has an exterior appeal for those with all-terrain navigation on their minds. Complete with many durable amenities and an attitude to match, the 2021 Ram 2500 Power Wagon is a popular off-road truck model.

Moving into the top tier models of the 2021 Ram 2500, the Laramie, Laramie Longhorn, and Limited are all rather upscale. With the Limited being the most distinguished and equipped, the Laramie and Laramie Longhorn are close contenders in their own way. For a polished feel for real life, the Laramie begins to pile on tech elements. The Laramie Longhorn fits those who are more rugged and western in a unique way, while the Limited is a better option for the city-slicker type. Though each of these models has their own unique niche to fill, the customization options for the 2021 Ram 2500 make alterations of any trim level easily attainable.

Used 2021 Ram 2500:
2021 Ram Trim Levels:
2021 Ram 1500 Trims
2021 Ram 2500 Trims
2021 Ram 3500 Trims
Previous Ram 2500 Trim Configurations:

Compare the 2020 Ram 2500 Trim Levels