2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty vs 2020 RAM 1500

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty underwent subtle updates that were noticeable to keen observers. The front bumper featured more black-painted areas, reducing the bling factor, while the grille transitioned from a large two-bar design to a more restrained look. This change also resulted in sleeker headlights, maintaining the overall shape but offering a more refined appearance. The F-250 was available in various trims, each with distinct styling elements. The XL trim had a black grille and bumpers, while the XLT added brightwork and larger alloy wheels. The King Ranch trim stood out with its two-tone paint and chrome accents, and the Platinum trim offered 20-inch alloy wheels and power-retractable running boards. The top-tier Limited trim exuded luxury with a satin-chrome grille. Inside, the F-250's cabin was functional but not particularly welcoming, with hard plastics and a mechanical feel. The base XL model was equipped with essential features, while higher trims like the Lariat and King Ranch added leather upholstery, advanced infotainment systems, and comfort features like heated and cooled seats.

The 2020 RAM 1500 was a standout in the truck market, combining iconic design with impressive sales figures. The redesigned model featured a large grille, a hallmark of the Ram brand for decades. The trim levels began with the Tradesman, offering basic features like 18-inch steel wheels and vinyl upholstery. The Big Horn trim added fog lights and carpet, with options for larger wheels and air suspension. The Rebel trim catered to off-road enthusiasts with a lifted suspension and off-road tires. For those seeking luxury, the Laramie trim offered leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and advanced tech features. The Longhorn trim added premium leather and chrome accents, while the Limited trim boasted a standard air suspension and advanced safety features. The RAM 1500's interior was spacious, with ample storage and comfortable seating. However, achieving maximum towing capacity required specific configurations, limiting some functionality. The truck's dials were noted for being loosely calibrated, affecting ease of use.

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty came standard with a 6.2-litre gasoline V8 engine, producing 385 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. Ford also offered a 6.7-litre Power Stroke turbodiesel V8, delivering an impressive 475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. A new 7.3-litre gas V8 was introduced, offering 430 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. The gas engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel used a six-speed TorqShift automatic. The F-250's towing capacity reached up to 10,977 kilograms when equipped with the diesel engine, 3.55 axle ratio, and High Capacity Tow Package. The truck's suspension was designed for heavy-duty work, resulting in a bumpy ride when unloaded. The FX4 off-road package added off-road shocks and skid plates, while the Tremor package offered off-road tires and a lift.

The 2020 RAM 1500 offered a base 3.6-litre V6 engine with 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 featured a mild-hybrid system called eTorque, providing an extra 90 lb-ft of torque and improving fuel efficiency. The optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8 delivered 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,783 kilograms. The 3.0-litre EcoDiesel V6 offered 260 hp and a class-leading 480 lb-ft of torque, though it experienced turbo lag. The RAM 1500's fuel efficiency varied by engine and drivetrain, with the EcoDiesel achieving 11.1 L/100 km city, 8.0 hwy, and 9.7 combined with 4WD. The truck's performance was noted for its smooth ride and impressive torque, though the diesel engine's power delivery was inconsistent.

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty was available in Regular Cab, SuperCab, and Crew Cab configurations, with bed sizes of 2,081 mm (6-foot-9-inch) or 2,492 mm (8-foot). The cabin was spacious and functional, with deep cup holders and a massive centre console for storage. The rear seats in the SuperCrew and Crew Cab folded up to reveal a load floor for large items, providing secure storage for equipment.

The 2020 RAM 1500 boasted a class-leading interior with over 151 litres of storage space, including a giant centre console and hidden pockets. The rear seats offered ample legroom and could recline in higher trims. The truck's maximum towing capacity required specific configurations, limiting some functionality. The RAM 1500's interior was praised for its comfort and storage options, though the dials were noted for being loosely calibrated.

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty's base XL model featured an AM/FM/MP3 radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB-C port. The XLT trim added SiriusXM satellite radio, additional USB-C ports, and the SYNC 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. FordPass Connect was standard, offering a WiFi hotspot and remote vehicle access via a smartphone app.

The 2020 RAM 1500 excelled in technology with its tablet-style 12-inch touchscreen and Uconnect system. The system was user-friendly and paired easily with smartphones. The RAM 1500 featured push-button start, multiple USB and USB-C inputs, and advanced engine technology, including the eTorque mild hybrid system. The truck's technology offerings were praised for their ease of use and functionality.

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty included standard safety features like front- and side-impact airbags, trailer sway control, and AdvanceTrac traction control. Optional features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The truck had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, and some safety features were not standard.

The 2020 RAM 1500 received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was the first full-size pickup to be named a Top Safety Pick Plus by the IIHS. Most safety features were available across trims, with some reserved for higher trims. The RAM 1500's hood design improved visibility, and braking performance was consistent, though stopping distances were average for the class.