2020 RAM 1500 vs 2020 Toyota Tundra

The 2020 RAM 1500 was a standout in the truck market, known for its iconic design and impressive sales figures. Despite the presence of the older Ram 1500 Classic, the redesigned model captured attention with its bold grille, a feature it had been perfecting since the '90s. The truck offered a range of trims, starting with the Tradesman, which provided essential features like 18-inch steel wheels and a 5-inch touchscreen. As buyers moved up the trim levels, they encountered more luxurious options, such as the Laramie with leather upholstery and advanced tech features, and the Limited trim, which boasted a 12-inch touchscreen and premium leather. The RAM 1500 catered to both rugged utility and luxury, making it a versatile choice for various needs.

In contrast, the 2020 Toyota Tundra offered a more straightforward approach with its three main trims: SR, SR5, and Platinum. The Tundra's design was robust, with the TRD Pro trim showcasing a military-grade appearance in its exclusive Army Green colour. Inside, the Tundra's interior was spacious, with the CrewMax cab providing ample room for passengers. However, the use of industrial-grade plastic in the interior was a drawback at higher price points. The Tundra focused on simplicity and durability, appealing to those who valued straightforward functionality over luxury.

The 2020 RAM 1500 offered a range of engine options, starting with a 3.6-litre V6 engine that produced 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. This engine featured a mild-hybrid system called eTorque, which improved fuel efficiency and provided an extra 90 lb-ft of torque when needed. The optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine delivered 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque, offering a significant upgrade in power. The RAM 1500's EcoDiesel V6 engine, with 260 hp and a class-leading 480 lb-ft of torque, was another option, although it sometimes suffered from turbo lag. The RAM 1500's towing capacity reached up to 5,783 kilograms (12,750 pounds) with the right configuration, making it a strong contender for those needing serious towing power.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra, on the other hand, came standard with a 5.7-litre V8 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain produced 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque, providing robust performance. The Tundra's maximum towing capacity was 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds), with a payload capacity of up to 784 kilograms (1,730 lbs.) in the SR Double Cab with rear-wheel drive. The TRD Pro trim added off-road capabilities with features like BBS forged aluminum wheels and heavy-duty Fox shocks. While the Tundra's V8 engine delivered strong power, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, averaging 16.4 L/100 km during testing.

The 2020 RAM 1500 excelled in interior space and comfort, offering a spacious cabin with plenty of room for passengers. The rear seats in higher trims could recline, providing additional comfort. The RAM 1500 also boasted over 151 litres of interior storage, with a giant centre console and hidden pockets. 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 a minor inconvenience.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra's interior was similarly spacious, with the CrewMax cab offering ample room for passengers. The rear seating area was particularly large, although the bench was low and flat. Storage options were somewhat limited, with a small glove compartment and few practical spots in the backseat. The Tundra's bed was basic, lacking the advanced features found in some competitors. However, the Tundra's simplicity was part of its appeal, focusing on straightforward functionality.

The 2020 RAM 1500 stood out with its technology offerings, particularly the 12-inch tablet-style touchscreen running the Uconnect system. This system was user-friendly and paired easily with smartphones. The RAM 1500 also featured a wealth of USB and USB-C inputs, ensuring passengers had ample charging options. The engine technology, including the eTorque mild hybrid system, was a highlight, showcasing advancements that improved performance and efficiency.

In contrast, the 2020 Toyota Tundra's infotainment system appeared outdated due to its hard plastic surroundings, but it offered modern features like Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The TRD Pro trim included a 12-speaker JBL premium audio system and dynamic navigation. While the Tundra's system had useful features, it lacked the advanced towing technology found in some competitors, focusing instead on essential functionality.

The 2020 RAM 1500 received high safety ratings, including a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick Plus designation from the IIHS for the Crew Cab model with active safety equipment. The RAM 1500's hood design improved visibility, and its braking performance was consistent, although stopping distances were average for the class.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra, while equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, had less favourable crash-test ratings. The IIHS rated the Tundra poorly in small-overlap, frontal-impact tests, and its headlights received a Marginal rating. The NHTSA's ratings were more favourable, with 5 stars for side-impact protection and 4 stars for frontal-impact protection. However, the Tundra's safety performance was not as strong as some competitors.