As we head into 2021 Ram 1500 Big Horn Deal, the truck market is witnessing a fascinating shift. While the latest 2025 and 2026 models are commanding premium prices, savvy buyers are turning their eyes toward high-quality, late-model pre-owned vehicles that offer modern luxury without the “new truck” sticker shock. Leading this pack is the 2021 Ram 1500 Big Horn, which is currently seeing aggressive price adjustments—including a healthy 8,000 discount on many certified pre-owned and remaining dealer inventory units featuring the highly sought-after short-box configuration.
The 2021 model year was a high-water mark for the “DT” generation of Ram trucks, earning top honors for its interior quality and ride comfort. By securing an 8,000 price reduction on a Crew Cab with the 5-foot-7-inch short box, you aren’t just saving money; you are investing in a vehicle that redefined what a light-duty pickup could be.
This detailed guide explores why the 2021 Big Horn remains a dominant force in the segment, the specific advantages of the short-box layout, and how you can lock in these year-end savings before the 2026 inventory takes over.
Understanding the 8,000 Discount: Why the Big Horn is Priced to Move
In the world of pickup trucks, “Big Horn” (or “Lone Star” in Texas) represents the heart of the lineup. It’s the trim level that offers the perfect balance of capability and creature comforts.
The 2021 Ram 1500 Big Horn Deal
As 2025 draws to a close, dealerships are under immense pressure to clear space for the next generation of Ram trucks. This has led to a significant “market correction” for 2021 models.
Depreciation Advantage: Most 2021 trucks have completed their steepest depreciation curve. The additional 8,000 discount often represents a “double dip” for consumers—buying at the bottom of the curve while receiving an extra manufacturer or dealer-led incentive.
Lease Returns: A wave of 36-month and 48-month lease returns is hitting the market. To move this volume, retailers are offering aggressive price cuts to entice buyers who might otherwise look at mid-size trucks like the Toyota Tacoma or Ford Ranger.
Short-Box Popularity and Availability
The 5-foot-7-inch short box is the most common bed length for the Ram 1500 Crew Cab. Because there are more of these units in circulation, there is more room for price negotiation. While a “Long Box” (6-foot-4-inch) might be rarer and command a premium from contractors, the short box is the king of the suburban driveway, making it the primary target for these 8,000 savings.
Performance Specs: Why the 2021 Ram Still Leads
Even four years after its debut, the 2021 Ram 1500’s mechanical DNA remains industry-leading. When you purchase this truck, you are getting hardware that is virtually identical to much newer, more expensive models.
The 5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque
The majority of Big Horn models on the market feature the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V8.
Power Output: Delivering a robust 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque.
eTorque Technology: This mild-hybrid system uses a belt-drive motor-generator unit to provide seamless start-stop functionality and an extra 130 lb-ft of launch torque, helping you get heavy loads moving without hesitation.
Towing Capacity: When properly equipped, a 2021 Ram 1500 Big Horn with the short box can tow up to 11,500 pounds, making it more than capable of hauling a large boat or a luxury travel trailer.
Class-Exclusive Coil Suspension
One of the primary reasons people choose Ram over Ford or Chevy is the ride quality. The 2021 Big Horn features a link-coil rear suspension rather than traditional leaf springs.
The Result: A smooth, car-like ride that absorbs bumps and road noise far better than its competitors.
Handling: The shorter wheelbase provided by the short-box configuration combined with this suspension makes the Ram 1500 surprisingly nimble in city traffic.
The Short-Box Advantage: Is it the Right Choice for You?
Choosing the bed length is one of the most important decisions a truck buyer makes. The 5-foot-7-inch short box is designed for the modern driver who needs a “do-it-all” vehicle.
Maneuverability and Daily Use
The short-box Crew Cab has an overall length that fits into most standard residential garages—something that cannot always be said for the long-box variants.
Parking Ease: In urban environments and tight parking lots, the shorter wheelbase is a lifesaver.
Off-Road Agility: If you plan on taking your Ram 1500 onto trails, the shorter length provides a better breakover angle, meaning you are less likely to “high-center” the truck on rocks or mounds.
The Crew Cab Comfort Factor
The short box is almost always paired with the Full Crew Cab, which offers a massive 45.2 inches of rear legroom. This makes the Big Horn a legitimate family vehicle. You can fit three full-sized adults in the back with more room than most luxury SUVs, while the short bed handles the “dirty work” of hauling camping gear, mulch, or mountain bikes.
Key Features of the Big Horn Trim
The Big Horn is the sweet spot because it avoids the plastic feel of the base Tradesman while staying thousands of dollars below the Laramie or Limited trims.
The Uconnect 4C System
The 2021 Big Horn benefited from the Uconnect 4C system, which remains one of the most intuitive interfaces in the industry. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, your navigation and media are always up to date, ensuring the truck doesn’t feel like a “dated” piece of tech.
How to Secure Your 8,000 Discount
Not every dealership will advertise this price cut on their front-page banner. Here is how to ensure you get the best deal on a 2021 short-box Big Horn.
Target Certified Pre-Owned (CPO): CPO units often come with extended warranties (up to 7 years or 100,000 miles on the powertrain), providing peace of mind to go along with your 8,000 savings.
Check for “Finance Incentives”: Some lenders are offering lower interest rates for 2021 models to keep monthly payments competitive with newer trucks.
The “Short-Box Shuffle”: If a dealer has multiple short-box units in the same color (like Granite Crystal or Bright White), they are more likely to apply the full 8,000 discount to move one quickly.
Compare Across Regions: Prices for Ram trucks can vary by 2,000 to 3,000 between neighboring states. It is often worth a short drive to a high-volume “truck country” dealer to find the deepest discounts.
A Heavy-Duty Value in a Light-Duty Package
The 2021 Ram 1500 Big Horn with the short box is the definitive “smart buy” for 2025. It offers the power of the HEMI V8, the comfort of a luxury SUV, and the utility of a world-class pickup. With current market conditions allowing for an 8,000 discount, there has never been a better time to upgrade your capability without overextending your budget.
Whether you are towing a trailer for a weekend getaway or simply need a reliable daily driver that can handle a trip to the hardware store, the Ram 1500 Big Horn is ready to deliver. Don’t wait until the 2021 inventory dries up—this level of value is a rare find in today’s automotive market.
