The 2018 Ram Big Horn represents a significant moment in the lineage of Ram's mid-level trim hierarchy, sitting comfortably between the work-focused Tradesman and the luxury-oriented Laramie. This specific model year was designed to capture the buyer who desired more capability and refined features than the base models offered, without venturing into the premium pricing of the upper trims. It served as the popular sweet spot for enthusiasts who wanted a genuine truck that could handle daily driving, light towing, and weekend adventures with a level of comfort that felt truly modern.
Design and Exterior Presence
Visually, the 2018 Ram Big Horn distinguished itself with a bold front grille that was specific to its trim level, moving away from the generic look of the Tradesman. This aggressive grille was often paired with unique front and rear bumpers that gave the truck a more muscular stance compared to its lower siblings. The standard equipment included premium black plastic cladding on the lower body panels, 17-inch aluminum wheels with a bold dark finish, and high-intensity discharge (HID) projector headlamps that provided superior visibility at night, setting the stage for a commanding road presence.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the Big Horn marked a clear upgrade in materials and convenience features. Unlike the vinyl and cloth interiors of the base models, this trim introduced higher-quality cloth seating with enhanced stitching and bolstered front seats for better support during long drives. The dashboard and door panels were wrapped in more durable and visually appealing materials, reducing the harshness often associated with work trucks. The inclusion of a full-color LCD display in the instrument cluster and a robust Uconnect infotainment system brought the cabin into the modern era, making navigation and audio control intuitive and accessible.
Performance and Capability
Under the hood, the 2018 Ram Big Horn maintained the robust power options synonymous with the Ram lineup, giving buyers the flexibility to match their needs with the right engine. The standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 provided ample power for daily driving and light hauling, delivering a smooth balance of efficiency and performance. For those who required more torque to tow trailers or haul equipment, the available 5.7-liter HEMI V8 turned the Big Horn into a capable workhorse, ensuring that the truck could handle demanding tasks without breaking a sweat.
Drivetrain and Towing
Transmission choices were geared towards practicality, with the six-speed automatic transmission being the standard pairing for the V6 engine. This combination offered smooth shifts and decent fuel economy for the class. The true strength of the Big Horn, however, was revealed in its towing capacity. With the appropriate gearing and the V8 option, this trim could tow over 7,000 pounds, making it a viable option for homeowners needing to move trailers or small boats. The available four-wheel-drive system further enhanced its capability, providing traction in adverse weather conditions and on rugged terrain.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety was a priority for the 2018 model year, and the Big Horn came well-equipped to protect its occupants. Standard safety features included a robust suite of airbags, stability control, and anti-lock braking systems. For higher trims within the Big Horn lineup, drivers could access advanced safety suites that included features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, and trailer sway control. These technologies were not just for luxury trims; they were made available to ensure that capability did not have to come at the cost of peace of mind.
