The Ram 1500 Big Horn represents a significant step up from the base Tradesman trim, offering a blend of capability, comfort, and technology that appeals to both work-focused users and adventure seekers. Among the available powertrains, the Big Horn provides the option of the efficient eTorque mild-hybrid system, which enhances the traditional 5.7-liter HEMI V8. This configuration delivers tangible benefits in terms of fuel economy, towing performance, and driving refinement, making it a compelling choice in the full-size pickup segment.
Understanding the eTorque Mild-Hybrid System
At its core, the eTorque system is not a full hybrid that propels the vehicle solely on electric power. Instead, it is a sophisticated mild-hybrid technology designed to assist the gasoline engine. The system integrates a belt-driven integrated starter generator (BISG) into the 5.7-liter HEMI V8, replacing the conventional alternator. This component serves a dual purpose: it acts as a generator to power an auxiliary battery and as a starter motor. The key function lies in its ability to inject brief bursts of electric torque to assist the engine during acceleration, deceleration, and startup, optimizing efficiency without altering the driving experience.
Benefits for Towing and Payload
One of the primary advantages of the eTorque system on the Ram 1500 Big Horn is its enhancement of towing capability. The supplemental electric torque provided during takeoff helps the heavy truck and trailer combination move away from a stop with greater ease, reducing strain on the transmission and engine. Furthermore, the system enables a class-exclusive available engine-off trailer power feed. This feature allows drivers to run accessories like climate control, lighting, and entertainment systems in the cab or bed without consuming the main vehicle battery or idling the engine, a significant convenience for worksites or extended camping trips.
Fuel Efficiency and Driving Dynamics
Fuel savings are a major selling point for the Ram 1500 Big Horn with eTorque. While the exact numbers vary based on driving habits and conditions, the system is engineered to improve city fuel economy significantly. The mild-hybrid technology allows the engine to shut off when the vehicle is coasting or braking, and the electric motor assists during restart, eliminating the rough idle associated with traditional stop-start systems. This results in a smoother, quieter cabin experience and contributes to the Ram 1500’s class-leading MPG ratings, which is a crucial factor for fleet managers and long-distance travelers alike.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The Big Horn trim level ensures that the cabin experience matches the sophistication of the powertrain. Upholstery options move beyond basic cloth, featuring premium materials such as perforated synthetic leather seating surfaces that are both durable and easy to clean. Enhanced comfort features like power-adjustable front seats with memory settings, a nine-speaker Alpine premium audio system, and dual-zone automatic climate control create an environment that is conducive to both work and leisure. The integration of the Uconnect infotainment system with an available 8.4-inch touchscreen ensures that navigation, phone connectivity, and vehicle settings are intuitive and accessible.
Safety and Capability Features
Safety is a cornerstone of the Ram 1500 Big Horn’s value proposition, and it is equipped with a robust suite of driver-assistance technologies. This includes the available Ram SafetyTec™ group, which bundles forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-path detection. These systems work together to provide an extra layer of security, whether navigating congested highways or reversing from a worksite. The Big Horn also retains the capable off-road features of its predecessors, such as available Hill Descent Control and off-road tires, ensuring competence on rugged terrain.
