2021 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 and contoured headlights gave the truck a more mature appearance, though it remained a modest evolution of the design introduced in 2017. Despite the front-end update, the cabin retained its blocky styling, which was less inviting compared to rivals like Ram. However, the interior was well-suited for work, offering ample space and functionality.

The 2021 RAM 1500, particularly the TRX model, was a carryover from the 2019 redesign, maintaining its robust and functional design. The TRX stood out with its commanding presence, inspired by off-road rally races, featuring a functioning hood scoop, massive grille, and fender vents. The interior of the TRX mirrored the rest of the Ram lineup, offering first-class comfort and technology. The cabin was durable yet luxurious, with premium materials and a focus on driver comfort and adjustability.

The 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty offered a range of powerful engines, including a standard 6.2-litre gas V8 with 385 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. The 6.7-litre turbodiesel Power Stroke V8 delivered 475 hp and an impressive 1,050 lb-ft of torque. A new 7.3-litre gas V8 was introduced, producing 430 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. The F-350 had a conventional towing capacity of 10,977 kg, a fifth-wheel towing capacity of 14,742 kg, and a gooseneck trailer capacity of 16,783 kg. The Tremor off-road package added features like 35-inch tires and a lifted suspension for enhanced off-road capability.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX was powered by a 6.2-litre supercharged Hemi V8 engine, producing 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. It had a payload capacity of 594 kg and a maximum towing capability of 3,674 kg. The TRX could accelerate to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and had a top speed of 190 km/h. It featured eight on- and off-road drive modes, including a Baja mode, and a segment-exclusive four-corner air suspension. The TRX excelled in various driving scenarios, from city commutes to off-road adventures, with its supercharged Hemi providing a thrilling soundtrack.

The 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty was available in Regular Cab, Super Cab, and Super Crew configurations. The Super Cab offered rear-hinged half-doors, while the Super Crew provided a full four-door setup with ample headroom and legroom. The truck offered bed lengths of 2,081 mm or 2,492 mm, with the longer bed available in a dual-rear-wheel configuration. The bed featured a step for easier loading, and the interior boasted a massive centre console with multiple storage pockets.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX, despite its larger exterior proportions, had interior dimensions identical to the standard Ram 1500. It offered generous headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The cabin was equipped with numerous storage options, including a large centre storage bin. The TRX Level 2 package provided comfortable front seats and powered-adjustable pedals, enhancing driver comfort. The seating position offered the most adjustability compared to rivals, making long drives more comfortable.

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, though it occasionally experienced hiccups. Ford's impressive towing tech included Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which simplified trailer maneuvering. The system used a dial to control the trailer's direction, making it easier for drivers to back up trailers.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX came standard with a 12-inch Uconnect 4C infotainment system, offering a customizable display and split-screen functionality. The system included wireless charging, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay integration. Performance Pages provided vehicle data, while Off-Road Pages displayed ride height and other metrics. The TRX also featured a full-colour head-up display, offering real-time driving information. The infotainment system was complemented by a premium audio package and various connectivity options.

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 features as standard.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX offered over 100 safety and security features, though crash-test ratings were not available at launch. Standard features included a rear backup camera, with additional options like a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist available in packages. The TRX also featured a digital rear-view mirror and various ADAS features, enhancing safety and convenience.