The Ram 1500 continues its battle at the top of the full-size truck segment with its latest model. Back and ready to fight, the 2021 Ram 1500 offers a variety of trim levels, features, and capabilities. Mid-trim models seem to offer the best balance of value and specs. But is the upgraded Ram 1500 Rebel worth nearly $4,000 more than the Laramie?

The 2021 Ram 1500: A full-size pickup for everyone

The 2021 Ram 1500 is designed to suit many drivers’ needs, with more options, features, and packages than most full-size rivals. According to U.S. News, the Ram 1500 starts under $33,000. But you’ll find pricing varies greatly because the Ram 1500 comes in an impressive eight trims. The Tradesman starts off the lineup. Then come the Tradesman HFE, Big Horn, Laramie, Rebel, Limited Longhorn, and Limited. The Ram TRX is the highest trim level, with a starting price of around $70,000. 

There are also myriad engine choices, including a 3.6-liter, 305-hp V6; a 5.7-liter, 395-hp V8; a 3.0-liter, 260-hp diesel; and even a 702-hp V8. Buyers can choose from two cab styles, but availability varies per trim. And though the standard bed size for most trims measures 6 feet 4 inches, there’s also a shorter, 5-foot-7-inch bed available. As trucks go, middle-of-the-road trims generally offer the best of all worlds. But is that true for the 2021 Ram 1500 Laramie and Rebel?

The Ram 1500 Laramie vs. Rebel: Similarities and differences

According to Ram, the 1500 Laramie trim starts around $42,000, nearly $10,000 more than the base model. It comes as a quad cab with rear-wheel drive and the standard truck bed, but it’s also available as a crew cab. Four-wheel drive is also available too. Depending on the style of Ram 1500 Laramie you choose, the price could reach around $48,000.

With a starting price of nearly $46,000, the Ram 1500 Rebel is a step above the Laramie in the middle of the lineup. Like the Laramie, the Rebel comes standard with rear-wheel drive. But it gets a crew cab and shorter bed. Quad-cab bodies are also available with the Rebel, but only when paired with the available four-wheel drive. Opting for crew cab and four-wheel-drive pushes the starting price to more than $49,000.

The Laramie comes with a 3.6-liter, six-cylinder eTorque engine with a standard towing capacity of 6,640 pounds. The Laramie also adds a variety of standard convenience, technology, and luxury features. They include leather upholstery, heated/ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, and a premium sound system.

The Rebel kicks things up a notch with off-roading prowess. It comes standard with the same engine as the Laramie but boasts a higher standard towing capacity of 7,440 pounds. It also comes with more standard equipment for towing capability, such as tow hooks, a performance suspension, a locking differential, and a standard one-inch lift. Inside, larger touchscreen displays and extra features like heated seats are available as options.

Is the Rebel worth the higher price?

The 2021 Ram 1500 Rebel starts around $4,000 more than the Laramie. That’s a substantial price difference, but it isn’t astronomical. But the decision on whether the Rebel is worth the additional cost is a personal one.

The Laramie offers more technology, comfort, and convenience. On the other hand, the Rebel boasts off-roading capability and the features to match. If towing capacity isn’t a factor for you, the Laramie is the better deal. But either way, the 2021 Ram 1500 is worth its distinction as one of the best full-size trucks.