2017 Ram 1500 Big Horn Overview: Specs, Features, and Performance

The 2017 Ram 1500 Big Horn is a mid-tier trim level designed to bridge the gap between basic utility work trucks and luxury-oriented pickups, offering a balanced mix of heavy-duty capability, interior comfort, and advanced technology features that made it a popular choice for both everyday driving and light towing tasks.

Introduction to the 2017 Ram 1500 Big Horn

When evaluating full-size light-duty trucks from the mid-2010s, the Ram 1500 lineup occupies a distinct space thanks to its coil-spring rear suspension and broad array of configuration options. Positioned above the entry-level Tradesman and Express trims, the Big Horn package serves as a volume seller targeted heavily at buyers who want more standard convenience features, styling upgrades, and customization potential without stepping up into the luxury-focused Laramie or Limited models.

Understanding this trim requires looking closely at how it balances mechanical capability with creature comforts. Over the years, the Ram 1500 has earned a reputation for its uniquely smooth ride quality compared to leaf-spring competitors, and the 2017 Big Horn capitalizes on this engineering while adding unique exterior accents, enhanced interior tech, and multiple powertrain choices. This comprehensive overview explores the core mechanics, interior layout, trim-specific features, towing metrics, and practical considerations for anyone looking at a 2017 model.

Powertrain Options and Mechanical Specifications

The performance profile of the 2017 Ram 1500 Big Horn is defined by three distinct engine choices, each paired with specific transmission systems and drivetrain configurations. Buyers could select between traditional gasoline power and an efficiency-focused turbodiesel option, making the Big Horn adaptable to varying payload and fuel-economy priorities.

Engine Lineup

1. 3.6L Pentastar V6: Generating 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque, this engine serves as the standard powerplant. It features variable valve timing (VVT) and thermal management systems to maximize efficiency, paired exclusively with the Torqueflite 8-speed automatic transmission.
2. 5.7L HEMI V8: For those requiring heavier towing capacity and immediate throttle response, the legendary HEMI V8 produces 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. It also utilizes an 8-speed automatic transmission and features fuel-saver technology (cylinder deactivation) to drop down to four cylinders under light loads.
3. 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: Delivering 240 horsepower and a substantial 420 lb-ft of torque, this turbodiesel engine focuses on low-end pulling power and highway fuel economy. It is mated to an 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission specially calibrated for diesel power delivery.

Suspension and Drivetrain

Unlike heavy-duty trucks that prioritize maximum payload capacity over ride comfort, the Ram 1500 utilizes a multi-link coil-spring rear suspension (or an optional four-corner air suspension system on select models, though standard Big Horns rely on the coil setup). This design reduces axle hop and provides a planted, stable ride whether the bed is empty or loaded. The Big Horn was available in both rear-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD), with the latter featuring an electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer case for seamless transitions between 2WD, 4WD High, and 4WD Low.

Exterior Design and Trim-Specific Styling

The Big Horn trim introduces several distinct exterior elements that set it apart from lower fleet-oriented models. While the silhouette remains standard to the fourth-generation Ram 1500 body style, the brightware and accents elevate its road presence.

• Front Fascia: Features a bright chrome grille surround with a chrome billet insert, flanked by quad-halogen headlamps with automatic functionality.
• Wheels: The 2017 Big Horn typically rides on 20-inch aluminum chrome-clad wheels wrapped in all-season tires, giving the truck a substantial stance without requiring aftermarket modifications.
• Lighting and Accents: Fog lamps are standard, improving visibility in inclement weather. Premium tail lamps, bright chrome door handles, and locking tailgates complete the exterior package.
• Bed Configurations: The Big Horn was offered in multiple cab and box configurations, including the popular Quad Cab with a 6-foot-4-inch bed and the Crew Cab with either a 5-foot-7-inch bed or the longer 6-foot-4-inch bed.

Interior Comfort, Cabin Layout, and Technology

Stepping inside the 2017 Ram 1500 Big Horn reveals a cabin engineered for both family utility and long-distance driving comfort. Ram prioritized intuitive ergonomics and abundant storage solutions throughout the interior architecture.

Seating and Ergonomics

The standard driver's seat in the Big Horn features a 10-way power adjustment (including power lumbar support), wrapped in premium cloth upholstery. A 40/20/40 split-bench front seat is standard, allowing for seating up to six occupants, though many buyers opted for bucket seats with a full center console. Rear-seat legroom in the Crew Cab configuration is particularly generous, featuring flat load floors and under-seat storage compartments.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Technology plays a central role in the Big Horn trim package:

• Uconnect System: Base models feature a 5-inch touchscreen interface, but many units are upgraded with the optional 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen system, which remains widely praised for its user-friendly menus, crisp graphics, and responsive tactile feedback.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth streaming, hands-free calling, auxiliary input jacks, and USB ports are standard. SiriusXM satellite radio capability is also integrated.
• Driver Information Display: A 7-inch configurable multi-view cluster display sits directly in front of the driver, providing real-time data on fuel economy, tire pressure, transmission temperature, and navigational prompts.

Towing, Payload, and Capability Comparison

Payload and towing metrics vary significantly depending on the chosen engine, cab style, axle ratio (such as 3.21 versus 3.92 ratios), and drivetrain. Reviewing these specifications helps clarify which configuration suits specific hauling needs.

Note: Actual towing capacities depend heavily on proper hitch equipment, axle ratios, and vehicle loading. Always consult the specific truck's door jamb safety certification label before towing.

Common Pros and Cons

Evaluating a used or historical model like the 2017 Ram 1500 Big Horn requires weighing its notable strengths against recognized mechanical or design limitations.

Advantages

• Superior Ride Quality: The coil-spring rear suspension delivers a uniquely smooth, car-like ride that absorbs highway bumps better than traditional leaf-spring setups.
• Exceptional Powertrain: The combination of the 5.7L HEMI V8 and the ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission provides smooth, dependable power delivery and responsive shifting.
• User-Friendly Cabin: High marks for the available 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system, abundant small-item storage, and spacious Crew Cab rear seating.
• Value Retention: As a mid-tier trim, it hits a sweet spot for depreciation, offering luxury-adjacent tech without top-tier pricing.

Disadvantages

• Payload Limitations: Compared to direct rivals from Ford and Chevrolet of the same model year, maximum payload and conventional towing figures for V6/V8 configurations can be slightly lower.
• EcoDiesel Maintenance Costs: While the 3.0L EcoDiesel offers excellent fuel range, models equipped with this engine require strict adherence to emission system maintenance (DEF fluid, DPF regeneration cycles) and can carry higher long-term repair costs.
• Rotary Shifter Preference: The dash-mounted electronic rotary dial shifter for the transmission polarizing among truck purists who prefer traditional column or console levers.

End-of-life maintenance, recall history (such as past tailgate latch and EGR cooler recalls on diesel variants), and rust-prone rocker panels in northern climates are key inspection points for anyone evaluating a pre-owned 2017 model.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Ram 1500 Lone Star and a Big Horn?

Mechanically and feature-wise, the Lone Star and Big Horn are identical trucks. The "Lone Star" badge is specifically marketed and badged for dealerships operating within the state of Texas, celebrating regional sales volume, while the "Big Horn" nameplate is used across all other 49 states and international markets.

Does the 2017 Ram 1500 Big Horn have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

No. Factory support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was not introduced to the Ram 1500 lineup until the 2018 model year (specifically on units equipped with the updated 4C NAV 8.4-inch screen). 2017 models rely strictly on Bluetooth, USB media streaming, and standard Uconnect smartphone integrations.

What is the best axle ratio for towing with a HEMI Big Horn?

For regular towing duties exceeding 6,000 pounds, the 3.92 axle ratio is preferred over the standard 3.21 ratio. While the 3.21 ratio yields slightly better highway fuel economy when unloaded, the 3.92 ratio provides stronger off-the-line acceleration, better hill-climbing power, and a higher maximum towing rating.

Is the 2017 Ram 1500 Big Horn capable of off-roading?

While the Big Horn is not a dedicated off-road vehicle like the Ram 1500 Rebel, 4WD variants equipped with standard all-season or all-terrain tires handle dirt roads, snow, and light trail work competently. However, it lacks the specialized Bilstein suspension lift, skid plates, and electronic locking differentials found on dedicated off-road trims.

Final Recommendation

The 2017 Ram 1500 Big Horn stands out as a well-rounded light-duty truck that prioritizes passenger comfort and everyday drivability without sacrificing utility. For buyers seeking a pre-owned full-size pickup, targeting a Crew Cab model equipped with the 5.7L HEMI V8 and the 8.4-inch Uconnect system offers the most reliable and versatile ownership experience. Prioritize inspecting service records, verifying suspension components, and confirming that all safety recalls have been completed by an authorized dealer before purchase.