2016 Ram 1500: Which Trim Level is Best for You?
Posted on January 22, 2020
When shoppers look at the Ram 1500 lineup at their Ram dealership, they might be confused about which model to choose. After all, there are several versions of the truck. Each one has its own set of attributes that make it appealing for different types of people.
Not everyone in the market for a pickup needs or wants the same set of capabilities, technologies and comforts. That's why Ram makes a wide variety of models, plus offers some engine choices. To make better sense of it all, reference the following overview.
Your Choice of Engines for the Ram 1500
There are three engine choices for the Ram 1500. Each one provides a certain level of ruggedness, power and efficiency.
The 3.0-litre EcoDiesel V-6 is small and wonderfully efficient, achieving about 1,225 km per tank of fuel. At the same time, the engine is powerful, producing up to 240 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque. In fact, the engine is so good it won the 2014 and 2016 Canadian Truck King Challenge.
Of course, the 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 is impressive, having won many awards. Fuel economy is impressive, as is the peak 305 horsepower and 269 lb.-ft. of torque. This is the engine for anyone who wants a balance of practicality and capability.
For those who need monumental power, the 5.7-litre Hemi V-8 is the perfect solution. It pushes out 395 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque, helping the Ram 1500 take on some big jobs. Thanks to the FuelSaver Technology, half of the cylinders shut down when the truck is cruising, helping to conserve fuel.
ST Trim
The most budget-friendly version of the Ram 1500, the ST model, can be outfitted with any of the three engines. It is available in Regular Cab, Quad Cab or Crew Cab configurations. This is the ideal solution for anyone looking to save some money, without compromising on ability.
Among the exterior equipment are 17-inch lightweight steel wheels, quad-lens halogen headlights and a cargo lamp.
There are still a number of conveniences and comforts included on the truck. Among them is air conditioning, cruise control, power locks/front windows, a 3.5-inch Electronic Vehicle Information Centre and heavy-duty vinyl upholstery.
SXT Trim
For those who want a more comfortable truck, the SXT comes with everything on the ST and more. Carpeting is added, along with cloth upholstery for the front seats and SiriusXM satellite radio.
Chrome bumpers and grille treatment, plus 17-inch aluminum wheels dress up the look of the Ram 1500.
SLT Trim
A number of conveniences and onboard technologies are added to the SLT. The Media Centre offers Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls and steaming audio. A compass and outside temperature display, plus traveler and mini trip computer are nice additions. Quad Cab and Crew Cab models come with a power-sliding rear window.
Exterior enhancements include nice chrome door handles and a body-colour upper fascia.
Ram 1500 Outdoorsman
The Outdoorsman only comes as a Quad Cab or Crew Cab, making it ideal for shoppers who need to transport multiple people regularly. It's also equipped for more rugged conditions, such as driving on trails. Front suspension and transfer case skid plates come standard, along with an antispin differential rear axle, larger fuel tank, extra-heavy-duty rear shock absorbers, tow hooks and a Class IV hitch receiver.
Rubber floor mats are standard as well, perfect for time spent in the outdoors.
Ram 1500 Big Horn
Truck shoppers who need serious capability and a functional cab should look at the Big Horn. It can only be outfitted with the 5.7-litre Hemi V-8 or 3.0-litre EcoDiesel. Fog lamps, pickup box lighting and chrome tubular side steps help with tackling jobs in a variety of conditions. The chrome power-folding side mirrors are another nice addition.
Drivers enjoy an upgraded 7-inch full-colour display in the gauge cluster, plus an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Ram 1500 Laramie
Shoppers who want capability and comfort should look at the Laramie. It comes with the Hemi or EcoDiesel engine, plus 20-inch chrome wheels and a rearview camera. Interior amenities include dual-zone automatic temperature control, heated/ventilated front seats and a power-adjustable front passenger seat.
Ram 1500 Sport
As a more performance-oriented and streamlined truck, the Sport only comes with the 5.7-litre Hemi V-8. The rear seat cushions can fold up, leaving a flat load floor. LED interior lights, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat and an 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen add some nice conveniences.
Among the exterior additions are bi-functional halogen projector headlights, LED taillights and auto-dimming side mirrors.
Ram 1500 Rebel
If you want to be prepared for some rough weather, the Rebel is a good choice. The 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 and 5.7-litre Hemi V-8 are both available. To help endure cold temperatures, the truck features a heated steering wheel and front seats.
An air suspension, heavy-duty Bilstein front and rear brakes and an electronic shift-on-the-fly part-time transfer case are great for rugged conditions. 33-inch Toyo all-terrain tires and a full-size spare round out the offering.
Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn
Like the Laramie, the Laramie Longhorn is capable and comfortable. It adds to the list of amenities with heated second-row seats, premium floor mats, leather upholstery, wood accents and navigation. A spray-in bedliner and remote engine start are also included.
Ram 1500 Laramie Limited
The most luxurious version of the Ram 1500, many exclusive features are included on the Laramie Limited. The all-black interior features; leather-wrapped grab handles, Berber floor mats and real wood accents on the steering wheel. Rain-sensing windshield wipers, a rear window defroster and automatic high beams are also included. Now that you know which Ram 1500 is best for your lifestyle, schedule a test drive at our Ram dealership today!