2020 RAM 1500 vs 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty

The 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty had a refreshed look with a more detailed grille and headlights, moving away from the chrome-heavy design of the previous year. The updated grille maintained an imposing presence, while the headlights, with added detail and contouring, appeared more refined. Despite these changes, the design was a modest evolution from the 2017 model, and as newer models like the 2021 F-150 emerged, the F-350's design began to feel dated. Inside, the cabin retained its blocky styling, which was functional for work use but lacked the inviting atmosphere of competitors like Ram. The F-350 offered various trim levels, from the basic XL with its work-truck aesthetic to the luxurious Limited, featuring amenities like a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2020 RAM 1500 was a standout in the truck market, combining iconic design with impressive sales figures. The redesigned model boasted a large grille, a signature feature since the '90s, and offered a range of trims starting with the Tradesman, which included basic features like 18-inch steel wheels and a 5-inch touchscreen. The Big Horn trim added options like 20-inch alloys and an air suspension, while the Rebel catered to off-road enthusiasts with its aggressive profile and lifted suspension. For those seeking luxury, the Laramie and Longhorn trims provided leather upholstery, advanced tech, and premium audio systems. The top-tier Limited trim featured standard air suspension and safety upgrades, making it a compelling choice for those prioritizing comfort and technology.

The 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty offered a range of powerful engines, starting with a 6.2-litre gas V8 producing 385 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. The lineup also included a 6.7-litre turbodiesel Power Stroke V8, delivering 475 hp and an impressive 1,050 lb-ft of torque. New for 2020 was a 7.3-litre gas V8, offering 430 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, available in rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The F-350 excelled in towing, with a conventional capacity of 10,977 kg, a fifth-wheel capacity of 14,742 kg, and a gooseneck capacity of 16,783 kg. The Tremor off-road package added features like 35-inch tires and a lifted suspension, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2020 RAM 1500 featured a base 3.6-litre V6 engine with 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque, paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 included a mild-hybrid system, eTorque, which improved fuel efficiency and provided an extra 90 lb-ft of torque during towing. The optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8 offered 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,783 kg. The 3.0-litre EcoDiesel V6, with 260 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, provided class-leading torque but suffered from turbo lag. The RAM 1500's fuel efficiency varied, with the V6 achieving 12.2 L/100 km city and 9.7 highway, while the V8 returned 14.2 city and 10.9 highway.

The 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty was available in Regular Cab, Super Cab, and Super Crew configurations. The Super Cab featured rear-hinged half-doors, providing decent rear-seat space but requiring the front doors to be opened first. The Super Crew offered a spacious cabin with ample headroom and legroom, and the rear seats folded up for additional cargo space. The F-350 came with either a 2,081 mm or 2,492 mm bed, with the longer bed available in a dual-rear-wheel configuration. The bed included a step for easier loading.

The 2020 RAM 1500 excelled in interior space and comfort, with a class-leading 151 litres of interior storage. The cabin featured a giant centre console, hidden pockets, and storage beneath the rear floor. The rear seats in higher trims could recline, providing ample legroom even for tall passengers. However, achieving the maximum towing capacity required specific configurations, limiting some functionality. The RAM 1500's dials were noted for being loosely calibrated, which could be frustrating for users.

The 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty featured the SYNC 3 infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The system had an intuitive menu layout, but switching between SYNC 3 and CarPlay could be cumbersome. The F-350's towing technology included Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which simplified trailer maneuvering with a dial in the dash, making it easier for drivers to control the trailer's direction.

The 2020 RAM 1500 stood out with its 12-inch tablet-style touchscreen and Uconnect system, praised for its ease of use and smartphone integration. The truck included push-button start and numerous USB and USB-C inputs, ensuring ample charging options for passengers. The RAM 1500's engine technology, including the eTorque mild hybrid system, was highlighted as an industry-leading feature.

The 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty came with standard safety features like airbags, automatic high beams, and traction control. Higher trims added features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Platinum trim included adaptive cruise control and upgraded headlights, while the Limited trim offered all safety features as standard.

The 2020 RAM 1500 received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was the first full-size pickup to earn a Top Safety Pick Plus from the IIHS, when equipped with the Crew Cab and active safety features. The RAM 1500's hood design improved visibility, and its braking performance was consistent, though stopping distances were average for the class.