The 2017 Ram 1500 Big Horn interior represents a significant step forward for the full-size pickup segment, blending rugged capability with a surprisingly refined and comfortable cabin. While positioned as a mid-level trim, the Big Horn eliminates many of the compromises often found in work-focused trucks, offering a suite of features that cater directly to the daily driver and comfort-conscious buyer. This trim level successfully bridges the gap between the basic STX and the more luxurious higher trims, making it a popular choice for those who want substantial value without venturing into the premium pricing tiers.
Design and Materials: Function Meets Refinement
Walking into a 2017 Ram 1500 Big Horn, the first impression is one of upgraded sophistication compared to base models. The interior moves beyond basic hard plastics, incorporating more soft-touch materials on the dashboard, doors, and center console. The available Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen is a clear upgrade, featuring intuitive navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio readiness, and a premium sound system option that fills the cabin with clear audio. Seating surfaces are typically upgraded cloth with enhanced stitching patterns or available premium leather, providing a tactile feel that signals this is not your grandfather's work truck.
Seating Comfort and Configuration
Seating comfort is a major highlight of the 2017 Big Horn interior, addressing a common complaint about earlier Ram models. The front bucket seats offer significantly more bolstering and padding compared to lesser trims, providing excellent support during long highway drives. The driver’s seat is highly adjustable, with multiple power adjustments and reach options, ensuring a perfect driving position for a wide range of body types. For families or those who need to haul multiple passengers, the second-row bench seat offers ample legroom and a comfortable seating position for adults, a rarity in trucks at this class that often prioritize cargo space over passenger comfort.
Technology and Infotainment Features
Technology integration is where the 2017 Big Horn truly shines, positioning it as a tech-savvy competitor in its class. The standard 5-inch display found on base models is replaced by the aforementioned 8.4-inch touchscreen, which serves as the command center for the truck’s audio, climate controls, and connected features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are often included, allowing for seamless smartphone connectivity, a feature that was becoming essential by 2017. The available Harman Kardon audio system transforms the cabin into a personal concert hall, delivering crisp highs and powerful bass that far exceeds typical truck audio expectations.
Convenience and Safety Amenities
Beyond entertainment, the Big Horn is packed with practical convenience features that enhance daily usability. Keyless entry with push-button start, automatic climate control, and power-adjustable heated front seats are typically standard or readily available, adding a layer of luxury to the driving experience. The interior is also well-lit with ample overhead lighting, and the cab configuration provides easy access to the rear seating area. For safety, the truck comes equipped with a robust suite of stability and traction controls, and many Big Horn packages include advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection, bringing a new level of peace of mind to towing and highway merging.
Towing and Hauling Practicality
While the focus here is the interior, it's important to note that the 2017 Ram 1500 Big Horn’s design is engineered to support its capable towing and hauling duties. The available EcoDiesel V6 engine provides immense low-end torque, making hauling heavy trailers effortless, and the interior’s robust construction ensures that the cabin remains quiet and stable even when the bed is loaded. The available trailer tow package includes a heavy-duty towing package, integrated brake controller, and enhanced cooling, all of which are reflected in the thoughtful interior layout, with easy access to controls and displays that monitor towing performance without distraction.
