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Ram Commercial Truck Trim Level Comparison: Capabilities, Specs & Upfit Guide

Ram Commercial Work Truck Trims on the jobsite at Sterling CDJR Opelousas

Sterling Commercial Vehicle Center in Opelousas, LA

Whether outfitting a light utility fleet, hauling machinery along I-49, or configuring severe-duty dump bodies for local trades, Sterling Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM offers every trim level engineered for Acadiana jobsites.

Explore how stepping up from fleet-essential Tradesman® and Big Horn® trims to high-capability Rebel® / Power Wagon®, luxury Laramie® / Limited, and commercial Chassis Cab configurations unlocks enhanced towing, specialized off-road hardware, high-output power, and upfit versatility.

Work Truck Trim & Capability Guide — Opelousas, LA

Ram Commercial Lineup at a Glance

Choose the exact level of power, payload, and trim features your business demands.

Class 1 Light Duty Towing to 11,560 lbs

Ram 1500

Trims: Tradesman, Big Horn, Rebel, Laramie, Limited.

Light-duty fleet transport, mobile office tech, and all-terrain jobsite driving.

Compare Ram 1500 Trims
Class 2B Heavy Duty Towing to 19,990 lbs

Ram 2500 HD

Trims: Tradesman, Big Horn, Power Wagon, Laramie, Limited.

3/4-ton heavy hauling, livestock transport, 6.7L Cummins®, and extreme off-road articulation.

Compare Ram 2500 Trims
Class 3 Heavy Duty Towing to 37,090 lbs

Ram 3500 Pickup

Trims: Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, Limited (SRW/DRW).

1-ton max gooseneck/5th-wheel trailering, dually stability, and 1,075 lb-ft High-Output torque.

Compare Ram 3500 Trims
Class 3 Chassis Cab GVWR to 14,000 lbs

Ram 3500 Chassis Cab

Trims: Tradesman, SLT, Laramie.

Flatbeds, service bodies, and dump beds built on 50,000 PSI flat steel frame rails.

Compare 3500 Chassis Trims
Class 5 Severe Duty GVWR to 19,500 lbs

Ram 5500 Chassis Cab

Trims: Tradesman, SLT, Laramie.

Extreme-duty rollbacks, bucket lifts, heavy dump bodies, and mechanics service rigs.

Compare 5500 Chassis Trims

*Maximum towing, payload, and gross vehicle weights vary depending on engine choice, cab configuration, axle ratio, and upfit equipment.

Work Truck Trim Levels & Extra Capabilities

1. Ram 1500 Trim Level Breakdown

Light Duty Commercial & Fleet

The Ram 1500 combines everyday fuel efficiency, class-exclusive coil-spring rear suspension comfort, and advanced trailering tech. Stepping through the trim levels unlocks extra off-road hardware, higher engine outputs, and mobile office luxuries.

Base Fleet Trim

Tradesman®

  • Standard Power: 3.6L Pentastar® V6 w/ eTorque (305 HP)
  • Work Capability: Easy-clean vinyl seating, washable flooring, Class IV receiver hitch
  • Core Tech: Uconnect® system, ParkView® Rear Backup Camera, full air filter system
  • Best For: Contractor fleets, municipal service crews, and high-utility work environments
Jobsite & Utility Upgrade

Big Horn® / Lone Star

  • Added Capabilities: Available 3.0L Hurricane Twin-Turbo I6 (420 HP) or 5.7L HEMI® V8
  • Extra Features: Selectable Drive Modes (Auto, Tow, Snow, Off-Road), 18" aluminum wheels
  • Interior Tech: Cloth seating, leather steering wheel, available 12" Uconnect touchscreen
  • Best For: Owner-operators wanting extra towing torque and daily comfort
Off-Road Capability Upgrade

Rebel®

  • Added Capabilities: 1-inch factory lift (9.7" clearance), Bilstein® off-road performance shocks
  • Extra Hardware: Electronic locking rear axle, underbody skid plates, 33" all-terrain tires
  • Available Tech: Active-Level™ 4-Corner Air Suspension raising ground clearance to 10.7"
  • Best For: Agricultural, oilfield, and remote muddy jobsite access across Acadiana
Premium Mobile Office

Laramie® / Limited / Tungsten

  • Added Capabilities: Standard Hurricane Twin-Turbo (up to 540 HP HO), max trailering package
  • Extra Comfort: Heated/ventilated leather seats, 12" to 14.4" touchscreen, 115V power outlets
  • Safety & Tow Tech: Trailer Reverse Steering Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, 360 Camera
  • Best For: Field supervisors, executives, and heavy towing with mobile office luxury

Ram 1500 Trim & Capability FAQs

What extra capability does the Rebel® trim offer on rough jobsites?

The Rebel® adds a factory 1-inch lift, Bilstein® off-road shocks, aggressive 33-inch all-terrain tires, underbody skid plates, and an electronic locking rear differential for navigating unpaved construction sites and muddy agricultural roads.

How does the 3.0L Hurricane Twin-Turbo engine compare to the V6 for commercial work?

The 3.0L Hurricane Twin-Turbo Inline-6 produces 420 horsepower and 469 lb-ft of torque (Standard Output), increasing towing capability up to 11,560 lbs while providing massive passing power when pulling equipment trailers.

Which Ram 1500 trim offers the best balance of fleet price and features?

The Big Horn® (or Tradesman with Level 2 Equipment Group) provides the best balance—adding cloth seating, full power equipment, selectable drive modes, and towing technology while keeping fleet costs manageable.

Can I get the RamBox® Cargo Management System on all trims?

Yes! The weatherproof, lockable RamBox® bedside storage system with a 115V power outlet is available across Tradesman, Big Horn, Rebel, Laramie, and Limited models.

What drive configurations are available across the Ram 1500 trim lineup?

Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, and Limited trims offer both 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains, while Warlock, Rebel, RHO, and Tungsten trims feature standard 4x4 capability.

2. Ram 2500 Heavy Duty Trim Level Breakdown

Class 2B Heavy Duty (3/4-Ton)

Step up to heavy-duty 3/4-ton muscle. The Ram 2500 provides high-strength steel frame rails, standard 6.4L HEMI® V8 power, or the legendary 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel producing 850 lb-ft of low-end towing torque.

Heavy-Duty Workhorse

Tradesman®

  • Standard Power: 6.4L HEMI® V8 (410 HP / 429 lb-ft torque)
  • Heavy Capability: Up to 4,000 lbs payload, Class V hitch receiver, integrated trailer brake
  • Durability: Work-grade vinyl seats, black bumpers, 17" steel wheels, washable interior
  • Best For: Worksite fleets, utility contractors, and high-payload equipment hauling
Towing & Comfort Upgrade

Big Horn® / Lone Star

  • Available Diesel Power: 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel (850 lb-ft torque)
  • Added Capabilities: Towing up to 19,990 lbs, chrome exterior trim, 18" alloy wheels
  • Towing Tech: Trailer Light Check, Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring, Remote Keyless Entry
  • Best For: Gooseneck trailering, livestock transport, and long-distance equipment hauling
Extreme Off-Road Capability

Power Wagon® / Rebel® HD

  • Unique Hardware: WARN® 12,000-lb front winch, electronic front sway bar disconnect
  • Trail Locking: Front & rear electronic locking differentials, Bilstein® gas-charged shocks
  • Extra Clearance: Factory lift, 33" off-road tires, powder-coated steel bumpers
  • Best For: Off-grid utility work, pipeline access, and severe terrain recovery
Luxury Heavy Hauler

Laramie® / Limited

  • Added Comfort: Premium leather upholstery, heated/ventilated front seats, 12" digital display
  • Suspension Upgrade: Available Auto-Level Rear Air Suspension for smooth laden driving
  • Advanced Safety: Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning w/ Active Braking
  • Best For: Commercial business owners pulling heavy enclosed trailers in luxury

Ram 2500 Trim & Capability FAQs

What extraordinary capabilities does the Ram 2500 Power Wagon® offer?

The Power Wagon® is the ultimate 3/4-ton off-road truck. It includes a factory-installed WARN® 12,000-lb synthetic-cable front winch, electronic front sway bar disconnect for extreme wheel articulation, front and rear locking differentials, and Bilstein® shocks.

What is the advantage of the Auto-Level Rear Air Suspension on the Laramie® / Limited?

The available Auto-Level Rear Air Suspension offers two manual driver-selected ride heights (including a Bed-Lowering Mode for easier gooseneck/5th-wheel hitching) and automatically levels the truck when carrying heavy tongue weight or bed payloads.

Can I get the 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel on the Tradesman® trim?

Yes! The 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel engine (producing 370 HP and 850 lb-ft of torque) is available starting right on the base Tradesman® trim for buyers who want maximum torque without extra luxury frills.

How does payload differ between the 6.4L HEMI® V8 and 6.7L Cummins® Diesel?

Because the cast-iron Cummins® diesel engine weighs roughly 800 lbs more than the HEMI® V8, HEMI-equipped Ram 2500 trucks generally offer higher maximum payload ratings (up to 4,000 lbs), while Cummins models maximize trailering capacity.

Is Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck prep available from the factory on all trims?

Yes, the Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Towing Prep Group (featuring integrated bed mounting crossmembers and a 7-pin bed connector) can be ordered on Tradesman, Big Horn, Power Wagon, Laramie, and Limited models.

3. Ram 3500 Heavy Duty Pickup Trim Breakdown

Class 3 Heavy Duty (1-Ton Max Capability)

The flagship of pickup towing capacity. Available in Single Rear Wheel (SRW) or Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) dually setups, the Ram 3500 offers the High-Output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel delivering an astounding 1,075 lb-ft of torque.

Max Payload & Fleet Workhouse

Tradesman® (SRW / DRW)

  • Max Payload Capability: Up to 7,680 lbs (6.4L HEMI® V8 Dually setup)
  • Max Towing: Up to 37,090 lbs with available High-Output Cummins® Diesel
  • Commercial Hardware: 50,000 PSI steel frame crossmembers, heavy-duty leaf rear suspension
  • Best For: Heavy equipment transport, commercial hotshot haulers, and agricultural fleets
Commercial Trailering Upgrade

Big Horn® / Lone Star (DRW)

  • High-Output Power: 6.7L HO Cummins® Turbo Diesel paired with AISIN® 6-speed auto
  • Extreme Stability: Dual Rear Wheels (DRW) for wind and sway control under heavy load
  • Trailering Convenience: Power trailer-tow mirrors, integrated brake controller, fog lamps
  • Best For: Pulling heavy 30+ foot gooseneck cattle and machinery trailers
Premium Heavy Hauler

Laramie® (SRW / DRW)

  • Added Comfort: Perforated leather seating, 10-speaker Alpine® audio, 12" digital instrument cluster
  • Camera Tech: 360-Degree Surround View Camera System with Trailer Reverse Guidance
  • Upfit Readiness: Auxiliary switch bank for connecting strobe lights, winches, or pumps
  • Best For: Independent owner-operators who live on the road while hauling commercial freight
Ultimate 1-Ton Luxury

Limited / Longhorn®

  • Pinnacle Luxury: Real Southwestern wood trim, 100% leather seats, 17-speaker Harman Kardon® audio
  • Power Assist: Power deployable side running boards, power tailgate, LED projector headlamps
  • Air Ride Comfort: Auto-Level Rear Air Suspension eliminating rear unladen bounce
  • Best For: Maximum 1-ton towing combined with executive-level interior luxury

Ram 3500 Pickup Trim & Capability FAQs

What additional capability comes with the High-Output Cummins® Turbo Diesel?

The High-Output 6.7L Cummins® engine delivers 430 horsepower and an industry-leading 1,075 lb-ft of torque. It is exclusively paired with the commercial-grade AISIN® 6-speed heavy-duty automatic transmission, enabling a maximum towing rating of 37,090 lbs.

When should I choose Dual Rear Wheels (Dually) over Single Rear Wheel?

Dual Rear Wheels are required if you need maximum payload capacity (up to 7,680 lbs) or tow gooseneck/5th-wheel trailers exceeding 20,000 lbs. The extra pair of tires provides essential lateral stability against sway and crosswinds.

What is the difference in rear suspension between the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500?

The Ram 2500 uses a five-link coil rear suspension designed for a smoother unladen ride, whereas the Ram 3500 uses a heavy-duty Hotchkiss rear leaf-spring suspension designed to handle extreme payload and pin weight.

Is the Ram 3500 available in a Regular Cab configuration?

Yes. The Tradesman and Big Horn trims are offered in Regular Cab with an 8-foot bed to maximize bed length and payload capacity for commercial work.

What trailer towing technology features are available on the Ram 3500?

Features include Digital Rearview Mirror with tow-mode side camera views, Trailer Reverse Guidance, Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring (up to 12 tires), and an integrated trailer brake controller.

4. Ram 3500 Chassis Cab Trim & Upfit Guide

Class 3 Upfit Platform (14,000 lbs GVWR)

Engineered with flat steel frame rails and zero top-rail rivets, the Ram 3500 Chassis Cab is designed for fast upfitting with service bodies, dump beds, and flatbeds. Trim options range from work-ready Tradesman to feature-packed Laramie.

Pure Commercial Foundation

Tradesman® Chassis

  • Frame Steel: 50,000 PSI flat rear frame rail system
  • Upfit Ready: Pre-wired auxiliary switches, VSIM upfit module
  • Cab-to-Axle (CA): Available in 60" and 84" CA lengths
  • Best For: Utility service bodies, flatbeds, and contractor rigs
Driver Comfort Upgrade

SLT Chassis

  • Interior Tech: Cloth seating, carpeted flooring, Uconnect® 8.4" touchscreen
  • Power Accessories: Power windows, power door locks, chrome exterior grille
  • Power Take-Off: Left- or right-side PTO capability with 250 lb-ft torque
  • Best For: Municipal fleets, tow trucks, and daily service technicians
Luxury Commercial Upfit

Laramie® Chassis

  • Executive Interior: Heated leather seats, 12" digital cluster display, dual-zone climate
  • Safety Suite: ParkSense® front/rear park assist, power trailer-tow mirrors
  • Powertrain: Commercial 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel w/ AISIN® transmission
  • Best For: Company owners driving high-end mechanics or rollback trucks

Ram 3500 Chassis Cab FAQs

How does the Vehicle System Interface Module (VSIM) help upfitters?

The VSIM module provides upfitters with direct access to over 70 electrical circuits (including lighting, PTO controls, door locks, and engine signals) without cutting or splicing factory wiring harnesses.

What Power Take-Off (PTO) capability is available on Chassis Cab models?

Models equipped with the AISIN® 6-speed transmission feature dual PTO access (left or right side) capable of outputting up to 250 lb-ft of torque to drive hydraulic pumps for cranes and dump beds.

What is the advantage of flat frame rails with zero top-rail rivets?

Flat top frame rails eliminate rivet obstructions, allowing aftermarket bodies (like flatbeds or box bodies) to flush-mount directly onto the steel frame without custom notched wooden sills.

Can I order dual fuel tanks on the Ram 3500 Chassis Cab?

Yes, you can pair the standard 52-gallon rear fuel tank with an optional 22-gallon midship tank for a total capacity of 74 gallons.

What engine options are offered on the 3500 Chassis Cab?

Choose between the standard 6.4L HEMI® V8 (370 HP / 429 lb-ft torque) or the commercial-grade 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel (360 HP / 800 lb-ft torque).

5. Ram 5500 Severe Duty Chassis Cab Trim Guide

Class 5 Severe Duty (19,500 lbs Max GVWR)

The ultimate heavy commercial vehicle platform. Built with massive 15.3-inch front brake rotors, 50,000 PSI hydroformed steel frame rails, and front axle ratings up to 7,250 lbs to support severe bucket lifts and heavy cranes.

Severe-Duty Baseline

Tradesman® 5500

  • Heavy Ratings: GVWR up to 19,500 lbs, GCWR up to 43,000 lbs
  • Frame & Brakes: 50,000 PSI steel frame, 15.3" 4-wheel disc brakes
  • CA Options: 60", 84", 108", and 120" Cab-to-Axle options (up to 16-ft body)
  • Best For: Heavy rollback tow trucks, severe dump beds, and municipal cranes
Commercial Crew Upgrade

SLT 5500

  • Powertrain: Commercial 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel w/ AISIN® transmission
  • Cab Options: Regular Cab or spacious 4-door Crew Cab for entire work crews
  • Interior Tech: Cloth seating, overhead console, Uconnect 5 with 8.4" display
  • Best For: Utility repair crews, tree-service bucket trucks, and fleet rigs
Pinnacle Class 5 Luxury

Laramie® 5500

  • Class 5 Comfort: Leather bucket seats, heated steering wheel, 12" digital display
  • Power Take-Off: Mobile & Stationary PTO operation with programmable RPMs
  • Safety Tech: ParkSense®, power heated trailer mirrors, LED lighting
  • Best For: Executive severe-duty wreckers, heavy mechanics rigs, and fire apparatus

Ram 5500 Chassis Cab FAQs

What makes the Ram 5500 superior to a Ram 3500 for heavy commercial upfits?

The Ram 5500 offers a significantly higher GVWR (19,500 lbs vs 14,000 lbs), heavier front/rear axles (up to 7,250 lbs front GAWR), larger 15.3-inch brakes, and longer cab-to-axle options up to 120 inches to support heavy hydraulic bucket arms and 16-foot dump bodies.

What engine powers the severe-duty Ram 5500?

The Ram 5500 comes standard with the commercial-grade 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel paired with the AISIN® heavy-duty 6-speed automatic transmission designed for continuous severe-duty operation.

What fuel capacity is available on the 5500 Chassis Cab?

Equip your Ram 5500 with a standard 52-gallon rear tank or select the dual-tank option (52-gallon rear + 22-gallon midship) for a total capacity of 74 gallons to minimize jobsite refueling downtime.

Does driving an unladen Ram 5500 require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL)?

Because the Ram 5500 has a standalone GVWR of 19,500 lbs (which is under the 26,001 lb federal CDL threshold), the truck itself does not automatically require a CDL to operate unladen, though towing heavy commercial trailers may push combined GCWR over the threshold.

What body lengths can be installed on a 120-inch Cab-to-Axle (CA) frame?

A 120-inch CA allows installation of commercial service bodies, rollback beds, or stake bodies up to 16 feet in total length.

Commercial Work Truck Trim & Capability Matrix

Model Commercial Class Available Trims Max Towing Max Payload / GVWR Standout Capabilities
Ram 1500 Class 1 Light Duty Tradesman, Big Horn, Rebel, Laramie, Limited 11,560 lbs 2,300 lbs Payload Coil-spring ride, 3.0L Hurricane, RamBox®, Rebel off-road lift
Ram 2500 HD Class 2B Heavy Duty Tradesman, Big Horn, Power Wagon, Laramie, Limited 19,990 lbs 4,000 lbs Payload 6.7L Cummins®, Power Wagon WARN® winch, Auto-Level Rear Air
Ram 3500 Pickup Class 3 Heavy Duty Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, Limited (SRW/DRW) 37,090 lbs 7,680 lbs Payload 1,075 lb-ft HO Cummins®, dually stability, AISIN® transmission
Ram 3500 Chassis Class 3 Upfit Platform Tradesman, SLT, Laramie 25,890 lbs 14,000 lbs GVWR 50K PSI flat frame, VSIM module, dual PTO access, 60"/84" CA
Ram 5500 Chassis Class 5 Severe Duty Tradesman, SLT, Laramie 35,220 lbs 19,500 lbs GVWR Severe bucket/crane capacity, 15.3" brakes, up to 120" CA (16-ft body)

Commercial Vehicle Resources in Opelousas, LA

Explore New Ram Trucks

Browse in-stock Ram Tradesman, Big Horn, Heavy Duty, and Chassis Cab trucks in Opelousas.

Vehicle Specials

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General Work Truck FAQs near Opelousas, LA

Does Sterling CDJR offer tax savings under Section 179 for business truck purchases?

Yes! Qualifying businesses may deduct up to 100% of the purchase price of qualifying Ram work trucks (such as Ram 2500, 3500, and Chassis Cabs) during the tax year the vehicle is placed in service. Consult your CPA for specific tax advice.

What commercial services does the Sterling CDJR Service Department offer?

Our factory-certified service center is equipped with heavy-duty lifts to maintain Ram 1500 through 5500 models, offering Cummins® diesel maintenance, transmission service, brake work, and fleet priority scheduling.

Can I order a custom Ram Chassis Cab with a specific service body?

Absolutely. Our commercial sales department will work with you to factory-order a chassis built precisely to your required CA dimension and coordinate custom body installation with leading regional upfitters.

Where is Sterling Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM located in Louisiana?

We are conveniently located at 5504 I-49 N Service Rd, Opelousas, LA 70570, serving business owners from Lafayette, Alexandria, Baton Rouge, and across Acadiana.

How can I schedule a commercial test drive or fleet consultation?

Call our sales department directly at (337) 473-2856 or submit an online inquiry through our website to set up a dedicated commercial truck consultation.

Visit Sterling Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM

Your Trusted Commercial Ram Truck Destination in Saint Landry Parish

5504 I-49 N Service Rd
Opelousas, LA 70570
Sales: (337) 473-2856 | Service: (337) 343-3642

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