2023 Ram 3500 Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

In terms of towing capabilities, the 3500 is Ram’s top pickup truck. It’s specifically engineered to confidently transport weighty cargo. Not only is the 2023 Ram 3500 a heavy-duty workhorse, but it also offers one of the most relaxing drives in the class. A luxury-like cabin and impressive ride quality enable passengers to experience excellent comfort. Furthermore, several stress-reducing safety technologies are now available.

Ram offers the new 3500 in five trim grades: Tradesman, Big Horn, Limited Longhorn, Laramie, and Limited. Here’s a breakdown of how the available trims compare to each other.

Compare the Tradesman vs Big Horn Trims. What is the difference?

Folks in need of a highly capable work truck will favor the less costly base model. While this is the lineup’s least eye-catching trim, sturdy 18-inch steel wheels and black bumpers make it ideal for job sites. Drivers can also take advantage of this bruiser's new telescoping tow mirrors. Both regular cab and crew cab body styles are available.

Like all versions of the Ram 3500, the Tradesman trim has three available powertrains.Its standard Hemi gasoline V8 engine is rated to churn out 410 horsepower and nearly 430 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic gearbox handles the shifting duties.

Drivers who need maximum muscle will want the Cummings turbo-diesel engine. While the standard version pushes out 370 horses and 850 pound-feet of torque, Ram tunes the high-output variant to develop 420 horsepower and a massive 1,075 pound-feet of torque. Both of the diesel powertrains feature a robost, six-speed automatic transmission that is specifically made for heavy-duty applications.

Rear-wheel drive comes standard on the Ram 3500. However, this truck can be upgraded with an optional 4X4 system.

Don’t expect the Ram 3500 Tradesman’s cabin to be extravagant. Its work-grade interior is built for the everyday grind. Tough vinyl floors and seats come standard. Non-powered windows and door locks are also found on the Tradesman trim.

Fortunately, the buyer won’t have to pay extra for air conditioning. A front bench seat is standard. Last year, Ram updated the Tradesman trim with a new air filtration system. It supposedly removes up to 95% of airborne contaminants.

A basic 5.0-inch touchscreen comes equipped on the Ram 3500 Tradesman. Despite not offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, this interface does feature Bluetooth and voice-command technology. While the truck’s four-speaker stereo system may not have a powerful sound, it will help entertain passengers while on the road. Two USB ports enable drivers to plug in their phones and other electronic devices.

On the list of options is a Tradesman Level 1 Group package, which adds a greater number of modem amenities. Highlights include power windows, heated tow mirrors, remote keyless entry, and an overhead storage compartment. Ram also offers a Level 2 Group package that adds cloth upholstery and a sliding rear window.

Luckily, Ram does offer the basic-looking Tradesman trim with an optional Chrome Appearance Group package. It adds bright bumpers and a chrome grille-surround. Chrome-clad wheels are included as well.

Folks who prefer a more upscale pickup truck should consider the Ram 3500’s Big Horn trim. There’s definitely no overlooking the Big Horn trim’s more attractive appearance. More appealing alloy wheels and upgraded bumpers boost its curb appeal.

When graduating to the Big Horn trim, the base Tradesman trim’s optional Level 1 Group package becomes standard equipment. However, Ram goes a step further by also including some great towing features. The pickup’s trailer brake controller and trailer light check system will certainly come in handy. Another perk is the Big Horn trim’s auto-dimming rearview mirror.

An optional Level 1 Group package makes the Ram 3500 Big Horn into an especially appealing daily-driver. Premium cloth seating surfaces give the cabin a nicer feel. Power telescopic mirrors and a leather-covered steering wheel are included as well.

An even bigger upgrade is the package’s Uconnect 5 infotainment system. It brings an 8.4-inch touch display with the latest smartphone integration features. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Android Auto are all built into the system.

Another option is the Big Horn trim’s Level 2 package. It adds popular cold-weather amenities, such as a heated steering wheel and heated front seats. Meanwhile, blind-spot warning and parking sensors help drivers to steer clear of danger. Other perks include remote start, LED taillights, and a 7.0-inch digital driver display.

In contrast to the Tradesman trim, the Ram 3500 Big Horn is offered in a Mega Cab body style. This ultra-roomy configuration gives passengers the most space to stretch out. Up to six people can climb aboard.

Keep in mind that the Big Horn trim is eligible for a couple of head-turning appearance packages. The Night Edition package gives the pickup a blacked-out look. Aside from adding black exterior accents, this package also features black alloy wheels.

The available Sport package is just as cool. It adds body-colored bumpers and door handles. A matching grille gives the pickup an extra wow factor. Black interior accents also come with the Sport package.

Drivers who desire more security on the road should check off the Big Horn trim’s optional Safety Group package. It equips the truck with several valuable safety technologies. The automatic emergency braking system works at city and highway speeds. Other confidence boosters include lane-keep assist, smart cruise control, adaptive steering system, and a digital rearview mirror.

Compare Big Horn vs Laramie Trim Levels. What is the Difference?

The Ram 2500 Laramie is a more premium trim. It is not offered as a single cab. Buyers can choose between crew cab and Mega Cab body styles.

Upon stepping inside the cabin, passengers will notice the leather seating surfaces. Power-adjustable heated front seats further upgrade the level of comfort. Navigation is added to the truck’s 8.4-inch touchscreen. Bi-zone automatic temperature control is yet another standard convenience.

Many people will enjoy the enhanced audio quality of the Laramie trim’s Alpine stereo system. It features a total of nine premium speakers, thus enabling music listeners to hear a more pleasing soundtrack.

The Ram 3500 Laramie comes standard with body-colored exterior treatments and a different grille. Unique wheels also help distinguish the Laramie trim. Premium LED headlights and taillights give the Ram 3500 Laramie another advantage over the lower trim levels. Keep in mind that the previously mentioned Sport and Night Edition appearance packages are also available.

To experience more luxury, opt for this trim’s Level 1 package. While the package’s ventilated front seats help enhance comfort on muggy days, automatic high-beam headlights help prevent drivers from blinding oncoming motorists. Crew-cab models add rear in-floor storage boxes. Other Level 1 package upgrades consist of a power-release tailgate, blind-spot warning, power-adjustable pedals, and a memory-function for the driver’s seat.

The Laramie trim’s optional Level 2 package brings even more high-end features. Experts consider the package’s high-performance audio system with 17 speakers to be among the best found on any pickup truck. Meanwhile, heating modes for the rear seats boost passenger comfort during the winter. Navigation, additional USB ports, and a wireless phone charger are also part of the package.

Compare Laramie vs Limited Longhorn. What is the Difference?

The Western-themed Limited Longhorn trim has a special look. It comes equipped with a different set of 18-inch aluminum wheels and body-color fender flares. A chrome billet grille gives the front fascia a more striking look.

Ram also dresses up this upscale trim with chrome running boards. LED projector fog lights and LED headlamps further differentiate the Ram 3500 Limited Longhorn. Two-tone paint is optional.

On the inside, exclusive leather seating surfaces add an elegant touch. Chrome and genuine wood interior accents magnify the degree of luxuriousness. The Limited Longhorn trim also upgrades comfort by adding cooled front seats and heated rear seats.

Additional tech features are found on the Ram 3500 Limited Longhorn. Ram’s 12.0-inch digital gauge cluster makes it easier for drivers to view key information while on the road. Parking sensors are also added to the truck’s list of standard equipment.

Buyers who’re willing to spend more money may want the Limited Longhorn trim’s available Level 1 Equipment Group package. It brings a stunning 12.0-inch touch display, which can show two different screens at once. Navigation and a Wi-Fi hotspot are integrated into the system. This unit can also simultaneously connect to two phones at once.

Along with the package also comes power-deploying running boards, which make this truck feel like a true high-end model. LED bed lights improve visibility at night when loading cargo. Other upgrades include the lineup's most powerful premium audio system with HD radio, wireless phone charging, and blind-spot warning.

Compare Limited Longhorn vs Limited Trim. What is the Difference?

Few heavy-duty truck models are as lush as the fancy Ram 3500 Limited. A unique appearance package gives its exterior a bolder appearance. Chrome 20-inch wheels and power running boards come standard. Premium interior features, such as a 12.0-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment screen and blind-spot warning, also come standard on the Limited trim. Top-notch interior materials are found throughout the cabin.

A RamBox cargo management system, which is optional on the lower trim grades, comes standard on the top-of-the-line Limited trim. Two lockable storage bins are incorporated into the walls of the truck’s beds. Not only does the RamBox system double as an ice chest, but it also features a built-in power outlet.

Final Thoughts

Ram 3500 buyers who desire a highly capable pickup truck without any extra luxuries will want the base Tradesman model. Although the Ram 3500 Tradesman is essentially a work truck, it still offers enough amenities to ensure a comfortable drive. Remember, all trims offer an identical degree of performance.

The Big Horn trim is a more modern option. It comes loaded with plenty of desirable amenties including power accessories and remote keyless entry. Many people will appreciate the optional Safety Group package. Furthermore, don’t forget about the cool-looking appearance packages.

Another solid pick is the Ram 3500 Laramie. Just a few of its niceties include an 8.4-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, heated seats, and a better-sounding Alpine audio system.

Folks who are interested in the Limited Longhorn trim should prepare to spend significantly more money. However, it definitely gets high marks in the luxury departments. Although the show-stopping Limited trim is an extremely plush pickup truck, don’t expect it to be a huge upgrade over the Limited Longhorn trim.

Previous Year Trim Configurations:

• 2022 Ram 3500 Trim Levels