The 2026 Ram 1500 Pickup Big Horn/Lone Star 4x4 Crew Cab 5'7" represents the better purchase decision over the 2027 model, offering an identical 305 horsepower 3.6L V6 eTorque powertrain, 6,370 lbs towing capacity, and 21 combined MPG at a starting MSRP of $53,430—saving buyers $350 compared to the 2027 model's $53,780 MSRP without sacrificing a single feature, dimension, or capability.
Table of Contents
- How Do the 2026 and 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Big Horn and Lone Star Trims Compare in Price and Features?
- What Cabin and Cargo Space Do the 2026 and 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Pickups Provide Weekend Adventures?
- How Does Performance and Driving Feel Differ Between the 2026 and 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Pickups?
- Which Ram Ram 1500 Model Offers Better Fuel Economy and Range for Daily Commutes?
- How User-Friendly Are the Technology and Safety Systems in the 2026 and 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Pickups for Local Professionals?
- What Warranty and Maintenance Options Support Long-Term Ownership of the Ram Ram 1500?
- Frequently Asked Questions: Comparing the 2026 and 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Pickups for Buyers
Table of Contents
Which 2026 and 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Pickup Trim Offers the Best Value for Anderson, SC Drivers?
Comparing starting prices across model years reveals that the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn/Lone Star Crew Cab 5'7" RWD delivers the most accessible entry point at $50,030 MSRP, while the 2026 4x4 Crew Cab 5'7" starts at $53,430 MSRP. For the 2027 model year, pricing increases slightly to $50,380 MSRP for the RWD configuration and $53,780 MSRP for the 4x4 model. Both model years carry a standard $2,795 delivery charge, bringing MSRP including destination to $52,825 for the 2026 RWD, $56,225 for the 2026 4x4, $53,175 for the 2027 RWD, and $56,575 for the 2027 4x4.
Because the mechanical specifications, standard equipment, and package options remain completely unchanged between 2026 and 2027, the 2026 model year represents a direct $350 savings for buyers who want identical full-size truck capability. Choosing the RWD model saves an additional $3,400 up front for drivers who prioritize daily highway fuel economy and higher payload capacity over all-wheel traction. However, the 4x4 model's additional cost is easily justified for local boat owners frequenting the ramps at Lake Hartwell, where four-wheel traction simplifies pulling heavy vessels out of the water.
When evaluating your purchase options, our team can help you sell us your current vehicle to apply its trade-in value toward your down payment. You can also explore current new vehicle special offers to reduce initial costs or compare these full-size trucks against our selection of pre-owned trucks and SUVs.
Pricing
Manufacturer-listed pricing per trim, across compared vehicles.
| 2026 Ram Ram 1500 Pickup Trim | MSRP | 2026 Ram Ram 1500 Pickup Trim | MSRP | 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Pickup Trim | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Horn/Lone Star Crew Cab 5'7" | $50,030 | Big Horn/Lone Star Crew Cab 5'7" | $50,030 | Big Horn/Lone Star Crew Cab 5'7" | $50,380 |
| Big Horn/Lone Star 4x4 Crew Cab 5'7" | $53,430 | Big Horn/Lone Star 4x4 Crew Cab 5'7" | $53,430 | Big Horn/Lone Star 4x4 Crew Cab 5'7" | $53,780 |
How Do the 2026 and 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Big Horn and Lone Star Trims Compare in Price and Features?
Standard feature content across the 2026 and 2027 Big Horn and Lone Star trims is identical, giving shoppers the exact same exterior styling, interior comfort, and functional hardware regardless of model year. Standard exterior equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels fitted with 8-inch width rims, chrome front and rear bumpers, LED low-beam and high-beam headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED front fog lights, dusk-sensing automatic headlight control, auto high-beam control, and power-adjustable heated black side mirrors with wide-angle glass.
Interior luxury and utility can be expanded through optional equipment groups. The Big Horn Level 1 Equipment Group (code A62) adds 5-way electric driver seat adjustment with power height, lumbar, reach, tilt, and recline, heated front seats, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, auto-dimming driver side mirror with integrated LED indicator lights, electrically foldable side mirrors, an electric rear sliding window with defogger, illuminated driver and passenger vanity mirrors, a 115V main power supply, and a universal garage door opener.
Stepping up to the Big Horn Level 2 Equipment Group (code A63) builds upon Level 1 features by incorporating a 12-inch dashboard center touchscreen with 3D voice-activated navigation, a 7-inch TFT color instrument cluster display, a 10-speaker audio system with a subwoofer, a wireless smartphone charging pad, dual-zone automatic climate control, anti-theft protection, and a remote trunk/hatch release.
For buyers needing specialized capabilities, the Night Edition (code ASH) adds painted bumpers and black exhaust tips, while the Sport Appearance Package (code AEF) provides body-color front and rear bumpers. Off-road enthusiasts can select the Off-Road Group (code AWL), which equips the truck with Selec-Speed Control, heavy-duty suspension, drive crawl control, hill descent control, front tow recovery hooks, all-terrain tires, and a full-size spare tire on a steel wheel. If your towing requirements demand heavy-duty frame strength beyond half-ton limits, you can also browse our heavy-duty truck inventory.
Dimensions & Capacity
Capacity and dimensions by trim
| Specification | 2026 Ram Ram 1500 Pickup | 2026 Ram Ram 1500 Pickup | 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Pickup |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 53.8 cu ft | 53.8 cu ft | 53.8 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 5,166 lbs | 5,166 lbs | 5,166 lbs |
| Towing | 6,370 lbs | 6,370 lbs | 6,370 lbs |
| Payload | 1,734 lbs | 1,734 lbs | 1,734 lbs |
What Cabin and Cargo Space Do the 2026 and 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Pickups Provide Weekend Adventures?
Both the 2026 and 2027 Ram 1500 Crew Cab models provide an identical about 54 cu ft cargo bed volume alongside a spacious 5-passenger interior that yields 3,734.99 liters of total passenger volume. Front row occupants benefit from 40.9 inches of headroom, 40.9 inches of legroom, 63.4 inches of hip room, and 66 inches of shoulder room. Rear seat passengers receive 39.9 inches of headroom, 44.8 inches of legroom, 63.4 inches of hip room, and 65.7 inches of shoulder room across a 60/40 split-folding bench seat base.
Exterior dimensions remain uniform across all models, measuring 232.4 inches in overall length, 81.2 inches in overall width including mirrors, and 144.6 inches in wheelbase. Overall height sits at 77.6 inches for 4x4 models and 77.4 inches for RWD models. Unladen ground clearance measures 8.6 inches on 4x4 trims with an 18.8-degree approach angle and a 20.6-degree departure angle, whereas RWD trims provide 8.3 inches of ground clearance with a 17.9-degree approach angle and a 20.7-degree departure angle. Curb to curb turning circle is 554.5 inches across both drivetrains.
Pickup bed dimensions are designed for max utility, featuring a cargo bed length of 67.4 inches, a bed width of 66.4 inches, a width between wheelhouses of 51 inches, and a bed wall height of 21.4 inches. Loading floor height measures 34.7 inches on 4x4 models and 34.8 inches on RWD models.
Weight and capacity figures vary strictly by drivetrain:
- 2026 & 2027 Ram 1500 4x4 Crew Cab 5'7": Curb weight of 5,166 lbs, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 6,900 lbs (6,901 lbs published), maximum payload capacity of 1,734 lbs, and a maximum braked towing capacity of 6,370 lbs (2,000 lbs unbraked).
- 2026 & 2027 Ram 1500 RWD Crew Cab 5'7": Curb weight of 4,982 lbs, GVWR of 6,900 lbs (6,901 lbs published), maximum payload capacity of 1,918 lbs, and a maximum braked towing capacity of 6,550 lbs (2,000 lbs unbraked).
Bed functionality can be expanded with optional features like the Rambox Cargo Management System (code XB9) with integrated 115V power outlet, the Multi-Function Tailgate (code MWK) featuring 60/40 split swing-away doors, a manual Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover (code CS7), and the Bed Utility Group (code ANT), which adds a manual retractable cargo box step, sliding load restraint anchorage points, and heavy-duty bed tie-down hooks.
Engine & Performance
Powertrain specs by trim
| Specification | 2026 Ram Ram 1500 Pickup | 2026 Ram Ram 1500 Pickup | 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Pickup |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.6L | 3.6L | 3.6L |
| Horsepower | 305 hp | 305 hp | 305 hp |
| Torque | 271 lb-ft | 271 lb-ft | 271 lb-ft |
| Transmission | automatic 8-speed | automatic 8-speed | automatic 8-speed |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
How Does Performance and Driving Feel Differ Between the 2026 and 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Pickups?
Powertrain output and driving dynamics are identical across the 2026 and 2027 model years because both rely on the standard 3.6L V6 eTorque mild-hybrid engine. Engine code ERG features a 3.6-liter displacement (3,604 cc) in a 60-degree V6 configuration with dual overhead cams, direct gasoline injection, and auto start/stop functionality. It generates 305 horsepower (227 kW) at 6,500 rpm and 271 lb-ft of torque at 4,900 rpm.
The standard eTorque system incorporates a 48-volt belt-integrated starter generator (BISG) motor located on the engine, powered by a 0.43 kWh nickel manganese cobalt lithium-ion battery. The electric motor adds up to 12.1 hp (9 kW) and 90 lb-ft of supplemental launch torque during initial acceleration and energy recuperation during deceleration. Power is routed through a TorqueFlite 850RE 8-speed automatic transmission (code 850RE) featuring a rotary shift dial on the dashboard and manual gear selection controls.
Commuters traveling along I-85 or driving to the BMW Manufacturing Plant in Greer will experience a smooth, quiet ride supported by an advanced chassis structure. Front suspension consists of an independent double wishbone layout with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. The rear suspension utilizes a rigid beam axle design with coil springs, five control arms, and a stabilizer bar. Electric power steering provides precise directional tracking with minimal driver effort.
For buyers seeking higher power thresholds or specialized axle hardware, several factory options are available on both model years:
- 3.0L I6 Hurricane SO Twin Turbo Engine (code EFH): Inline-6 cylinder engine with dual turbochargers generating 420 hp (313 kW) at 5,200 rpm and 469 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm, paired with the heavy-duty TorqueFlite 8HP75 8-speed automatic transmission.
- 5.7L V8 HEMI eTorque Engine (code EZL): 5.7-liter V8 engine producing 395 hp (295 kW) and 410 lb-ft of torque with mild-hybrid assistance.
- Axle & Suspension Options: 3.55 Axle Ratio (code DMD), 3.92 Axle Ratio (code DMH), Anti-Spin Differential Rear Axle (code DSA), E-Locker Rear Axle (code DSH), and 4-Corner Air Suspension (code SER) with automatic front and rear load leveling.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy and range by trim
| Specification | 2026 Ram Ram 1500 Pickup | 2026 Ram Ram 1500 Pickup | 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Pickup |
|---|---|---|---|
| MPG | 19 city / 24 hwy / 21 combined | 19 city / 24 hwy / 21 combined | 19 city / 24 hwy / 21 combined |
Which Ram Ram 1500 Model Offers Better Fuel Economy and Range for Daily Commutes?
Fuel economy figures show that RWD versions of the 2026 and 2027 Ram 1500 offer higher efficiency ratings than 4x4 models. According to EPA estimates, RWD Big Horn Crew Cab 5'7" models achieve 20 MPG city, 25 MPG highway, and 22 MPG combined. Four-wheel-drive (4x4) versions achieve 19 MPG city, 24 MPG highway, and 21 MPG combined. Annual CO2 emissions are calculated at 6.7 tons per year (407 g/mile) for RWD models and 6.9 tons per year (417 g/mile) for 4x4 models.
Driving range is governed by drivetrain choice and fuel tank capacity. Both model years come standard with a 26-gallon main fuel tank that runs on standard 87-octane unleaded petrol. On a full tank, the 4x4 model delivers an EPA-calculated range of 546 miles, while the RWD model extends calculated range to 572 miles. For long-distance haulers, an optional 33 Gallon Fuel Tank (code NFF) expands total fuel capacity significantly, pushing total cruising range past 700 miles on highway drives.
If you are evaluating fuel costs for daily commutes, you can browse our current new Ram 1500 truck inventory to locate models configured with the 33-gallon tank or check out our service specials and maintenance offers to keep your fuel system operating at peak factory efficiency.
How User-Friendly Are the Technology and Safety Systems in the 2026 and 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Pickups for Local Professionals?
Cabin infotainment features in the 2026 and 2027 Ram 1500 Big Horn trims combine large touchscreen interfaces with tactile steering wheel controls. Base equipment includes an 8.4-inch fixed center dashboard touchscreen, a 3.5-inch TFT cluster display, a 6-speaker audio system, AM/FM radio, steering wheel remote audio controls, front AUX jack, 2 front USB ports, and 1 rear USB connection. Built-in wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto allow smartphone mirroring without cables, complemented by Bluetooth audio streaming and Amazon Alexa voice integration.
Connected vehicle technology includes 120 months of included remote services through an embedded SIM card. Owners can use a smartphone app for remote engine start, door lock/unlock, horn/light signaling, vehicle location tracking, geofencing, speed alerts, and health diagnostic reports. A 3-month/3 GB Wi-Fi hotspot trial is also included. Upgrading to the Big Horn Level 2 Equipment Group (code A63) installs a 12-inch center touchscreen, 12-inch reconfigurable TFT instrument cluster (code JAN), 3D navigation with 36 months of map updates, a 10-speaker amplified audio system with subwoofer, a wireless charging pad, 2 front USB charging ports, and 2 rear USB charging ports. The Technology Group (code ADG) adds a windshield Head-Up Display (HUD) and a digital rearview mirror.
Safety engineering is strictly isolated from infotainment operations to ensure dedicated protection. Standard active safety equipment includes 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS) with 4 ventilated discs, Electronic Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control, Roll Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, and Trailer Stability Control. Occupational protection includes 6 total airbags: driver and passenger front airbags, front side-impact airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags for front and rear rows. ISOFIX child seat anchor points and height-adjustable front and rear head restraints (2 front, 3 rear) come standard.
Advanced driver assistance technologies are built into the standard safety suite across both model years:
- ParkSense Front and Rear Park Assist with Stop: Utilizes front radar sensors and rear radar/camera inputs to detect obstacles and trigger automatic low-speed braking.
- Blind Spot Detection: Radar-based overtaking sensors monitor blind zones continuously without requiring turn signal activation.
- Cross Path Detection: Rear cross-traffic radar warns drivers of approaching vehicles while reversing.
- Pedestrian Emergency Braking: Anti-collision system operates between 3 mph and highway speeds, providing visual/acoustic warnings and automatic emergency braking when pedestrians or cyclists are detected.
Independent safety testing highlights strong crashworthiness. The NHTSA awarded the Ram 1500 a 4-Star Overall Crash Test Rating, including a 5-Star side impact rating, a 4-Star frontal crash rating, and a 4-Star rollover rating. IIHS testing rated the standard LED headlights as "Acceptable" and awarded an "Advanced" rating for daylight vehicle-to-pedestrian front crash prevention. Available safety upgrades include a Surround View Camera System (code XAK) and Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go (code ALP).
What Warranty and Maintenance Options Support Long-Term Ownership of the Ram Ram 1500?
Warranty terms are identical for the 2026 and 2027 Ram 1500, offering strong manufacturer protection across all key mechanical components:
- Basic Whole Vehicle Limited Warranty: 36 months or 36,000 miles (OEM and total duration).
- Powertrain Limited Warranty: 120 months or 100,000 miles (OEM and total duration).
- Anti-Corrosion Perforation Warranty: 36 months with unlimited miles (catalog rated at 9,999,999 miles).
- Paint Warranty: 36 months or 36,000 miles.
- eTorque Mild-Hybrid Electrical System & Battery Warranty: 96 months or 80,000 miles.
Emergency assistance coverage is included standard for 60 months or 100,000 miles via OEM Roadside Assistance. This coverage includes 24/7 flat tire changing, jump-starts, lockout service, emergency fuel delivery, and towing to the nearest authorized dealership. For immediate roadside service, owners can contact Ram Roadside Assistance: 1-800-521-2779 or coordinate support through our dealership.
Long-term maintenance planning can be supplemented with the factory-backed MyFlexCare Service Plan (code 2S6). To maintain full warranty compliance, owners can explore our certified pre-owned inventory standards or schedule a service appointment with our factory-trained Mopar technicians who use genuine OEM replacement parts.
Frequently Asked Questions: Comparing the 2026 and 2027 Ram Ram 1500 Pickups for Buyers
Q: What is the main difference between the 2026 and 2027 Ram 1500 Big Horn?
Price is the only distinction between these model years. The 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn 4x4 Crew Cab 5'7" starts at $53,430 MSRP ($50,030 RWD), whereas the 2027 4x4 starts at $53,780 MSRP ($50,380 RWD). Engine options, horsepower (305 hp), towing capacity (6,370 lbs), fuel economy (21 combined MPG), dimensions, and option packages are identical.
Q: Should I choose the 4x4 or RWD configuration for driving in Anderson?
The RWD model offers slightly higher payload (1,918 lbs vs 1,734 lbs) and towing (6,550 lbs vs 6,370 lbs) alongside higher fuel economy (22 combined MPG vs 21 combined MPG). However, the 4x4 model's all-wheel traction is ideal for pulling boat trailers up wet ramps at Lake Hartwell or navigating winter weather in the nearby Blue Ridge foothills.
Q: What is the towing capacity of the Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 5'7"?
When equipped with the standard 3.6L V6 eTorque engine, the 2026 and 2027 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 5'7" 4x4 has a maximum braked towing capacity of 6,370 lbs and an unbraked towing capacity of 2,000 lbs. The RWD configuration increases maximum braked towing capacity to 6,550 lbs. Both feature standard Trailer Stability Control and trailer tow wiring.
Q: Does the Ram 1500 Big Horn include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes, wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto come standard on both the 2026 and 2027 Ram 1500 Big Horn trims via the standard Uconnect system on the 8.4-inch center touchscreen or the available 12-inch touchscreen included with the Big Horn Level 2 Equipment Group.
Q: Where can I test drive the 2026 and 2027 Ram 1500?
You can test drive both models at Piedmont Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Get directions to our showroom address at 4015 Clemson Blvd, Anderson, SC 29621, give our sales team (864) 305-4173 a quick call, or start your buying process by completing an online credit application today.
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