At a Glance: 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn vs Laramie Comparison
The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn and Laramie are two of the most popular trims in the lineup, and they sit far enough apart to serve genuinely different buyers. The Big Horn delivers strong capability and a clean, practical interior at a more accessible position in the range. The Laramie steps up with a more powerful engine, a more refined cabin, and a set of features that matter to drivers who spend real time behind the wheel. For truck buyers in Moncton and across New Brunswick, the choice between these two often comes down to how you use your truck -- and what you want waiting for you at the end of the day.
Both trims are capable, both are backed by Ram's 10-year/160,000-kilometre limited powertrain warranty, and both come standard with 4x4. But the differences between them are meaningful enough to change the driving experience. Here is what separates them.
| Feature | Ram 1500 Big Horn | Ram 1500 Laramie |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 3.6 L Pentastar V-6 eTorque | 3.0 L Hurricane I-6 SO Twin Turbo |
| Horsepower / Torque | 305 hp / 269 lb-ft | 420 hp / 469 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6,480 lbs (2,935 kg) | 8,220 lbs (3,729 kg) |
| Uconnect Display | 8.4-inch touchscreen | 12-inch touchscreen |
| Audio System | 6-speaker | 10-speaker Alpine |
1. Performance and Capability
The engine gap between these two trims is the most important spec difference on this list. The Big Horn runs the 3.6 L Pentastar V-6 with eTorque mild hybrid technology -- 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque -- which gets the job done for everyday driving and light towing around Moncton, out to Riverview, or along the Trans-Canada toward Sussex.
The Laramie comes standard with Ram's 3.0 L Hurricane I-6 Standard Output twin-turbo engine, producing 420 hp and 469 lb-ft of torque. That is 115 additional horsepower and 200 additional lb-ft of torque over the Big Horn, which translates directly into towing confidence. Max towing on the Laramie reaches 8,220 lbs (3,729 kg) compared to 6,480 lbs (2,935 kg) on the Big Horn -- a gap that matters the moment you hook up a larger trailer or a boat headed for the Petitcodiac.
Key Takeaway: The Laramie offers a massive jump in power and towing capacity, while the Big Horn provides a balanced, efficient V-6 for standard duty.
2. Interior and Technology Upgrades
Inside the cabin, the Laramie takes a clear step forward. Dual-zone automatic climate control replaces the Big Horn's manual system -- a genuine quality-of-life upgrade for anyone sharing the cab on long drives through New Brunswick winters. The Laramie's 10-speaker Alpine audio system outperforms the Big Horn's 6-speaker setup, and the 12-in Uconnect touchscreen brings a larger navigation and infotainment interface than the Big Horn's 8.4-in unit.
The Laramie also upgrades the steering wheel to leather wrapping and adds an auto-dimming rearview mirror, body-coloured front and rear bumpers, and 20-in polished wheels in place of the Big Horn's 18-in silver wheels.
Key Takeaway: The Laramie transforms the cabin into a more premium space with superior audio, climate control, and display technology.
3. Reliability and Peace of Mind
Both the Big Horn and Laramie are built to last on New Brunswick roads. They are backed by Canada's best full-size truck limited powertrain warranty -- 10 years or 160,000 kilometres. This provides long-term security whether you are using your truck for the job site or family adventures.
Which Trim Is Right for You?
The Big Horn is the right call for buyers who need a dependable, capable full-size truck without stepping into the luxury segment. It handles everyday hauling, commuting across Greater Moncton, and light towing with the 3.6 L V-6 eTorque -- and it carries all of Ram's core active safety technology as standard.
The Laramie is built for drivers who use their truck hard and want the cabin to reflect that investment. The twin-turbo I-6 adds real towing range, the upgraded interior makes daily driving noticeably more comfortable, and features like dual-zone climate and the larger Uconnect screen close the gap between truck and luxury vehicle.
