Transforming a Ram 1500 Big Horn Into an Off-Road Beast: Mopar Upgrades vs. Factory Rebel

The Ram 1500 has long been celebrated for its off-road capabilities, especially in Rebel trim. But what if you could build something even more capable starting with a Big Horn model? MotorVero explores how Mopar's extensive aftermarket catalog can transform a mainstream pickup into a trail-conquering machine that rivals—or even surpasses—the factory Rebel.

Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 RWD

$61488

diesel

54487 mi

Good Deal  

0 (5)

2011 BMW 1 Series 128i

$6176

Gas

158183 mi

Fair Deal  

0 (5)

2019 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450

$42492

Gas

56030 mi

Fair Deal  

0 (5)

See More

The Foundation: Why Start With a Ram 1500 Big Horn?

The Ram 1500 Big Horn serves as an ideal platform for customization, offering:

• Mid-range pricing with available premium features
• Standard 4×4 capability for serious off-road potential
• Multiple cab configurations to suit different needs
• Available Hemi V8 with 395 horsepower

Mopar began their transformation with a well-equipped Big Horn crew cab featuring:

• Sport Appearance Package with black interior accents
• Premium LED Lighting Group
• Level 2 Equipment Group (including damped tailgate, heated seats/steering wheel)
• 8.4-inch Uconnect 4C navigation system
• The optional 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine
• --TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
  

Exterior Transformation: From Street to Off-Road Dominance

Suspension and Wheels

The most dramatic changes come from the suspension upgrades:

• 2-inch lift kit (excluding air suspension)
• 18-inch beadlock wheels with Toyo Open Country M/T 35-inch tires
• Complete kit including front/rear shocks, control arms, and track bar bracket

Additional Exterior Enhancements

Mopar didn't stop at the suspension:

• Aggressive fender flares to accommodate larger tires
• Off-road style running boards for easier access
• RamBar accessory bar with four 5-inch LED off-road lights (4,800 lumens each)
• Distinctive hood graphic for visual impact
• 

  2024 Acura MDX Type S

  $64030

  Gas

  45002 mi

  Very Good Deal  

  4 (5)

  

  Nissan Note 1.2E

  $15650

  electric

  73215 mi

  Very Good Deal  

  0 (5)

  

  2024 Tesla Cybertruck

  $134524

  electric

  445 mi

  Very Good Deal  

  0 (5)

  See More
  
  

Performance Upgrades: More Than Just Looks

Exhaust System

The modified truck features:

• Cat-back exhaust system with black 5-inch tips
• Significantly enhanced engine note (especially under acceleration)
• Manageable highway drone that blends with other cabin noises

Engine Breathing

Mopar added their Ram Airflow cold-air intake system:

• Primarily enhances engine sound rather than power
• Minimal performance gains with the already potent Hemi V8
• Adds to the aggressive driving experience
• --FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
  

Interior Customization: Luxury on a Budget

The Big Horn's interior received significant upgrades:

• Katzkin leather seats ($1,365 + installation)
• Fully customizable colors, patterns, and embroidery
• Quality comparable to factory-installed leather
• Additional touches like Ram logo sill plates and wireless charging
• --SECOND CAR LIST HERE--
  

Mopar Upgrades vs. Factory Rebel: The Ultimate Showdown

Which Is Better?

The factory Rebel maintains some advantages:

• Standard electronic locking rear differential
• Purpose-built off-road suspension tuning
• Comprehensive underbody protection
• Lower total cost for comparable equipment

However, the Mopar-modified Big Horn offers:

• Greater personalization options
• Potential for more extreme modifications
• Ability to spread out upgrade costs over time
• --SECOND CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
  

The Mopar Advantage: More Than Just Parts

Choosing Mopar accessories provides unique benefits:

• Dealer installation maintains factory warranty
• Financing options when added at purchase
• Quality assurance with factory-backed parts
• Custom Shop availability for professional installation
• 

  2017 Acura ILX

  $64900

  Gas

  4600 mi

  Good Deal  

  0 (5)

  

  2018 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus RWD

  $24950

  Gas

  37670 mi

  Fair Deal  

  0 (5)

  

  2016 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport 4WD

  $25900

  Gas

  73215 mi

  Good Deal  

  0 (5)

  See More
  
  

Final Verdict: Build or Buy?

For most buyers, the factory Rebel represents the better value when considering:

• Total cost of ownership
• Warranty protection
• Resale value

However, enthusiasts seeking ultimate personalization may prefer building their own version through Mopar's catalog, accepting:

• Higher total costs
• Potential warranty complexities
• Installation time and effort

Ultimately, both approaches result in highly capable off-road trucks—it simply depends on whether you prioritize convenience or customization in your Ram 1500 build.