2020 RAM 1500 vs 2020 Toyota Tacoma

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma was a pickup that embraced simplicity and functionality over flashy aesthetics. Its design was clean and straightforward, with a body that was rounded enough to distinguish it from a Jeep, yet still rugged with upright lines and chiseled panels. The Tacoma's TRD Pro package added a touch of flair with redesigned LED headlights, a new grille, and a striking Army Green paint option. Despite these enhancements, the Tacoma's interior remained utilitarian, with a straightforward dash and a modest touchscreen. While the fit and finish were commendable, the materials were mostly basic, and the leather seats in the TRD Pro trim left something to be desired.

In contrast, the 2020 RAM 1500 was a standout in the pickup segment, known for its iconic design and impressive sales figures. The redesigned model boasted a large grille, a hallmark of the brand since the '90s. The RAM 1500 offered a range of trims, from the basic Tradesman to the luxurious Limited, each with its own set of features and options. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and high-quality materials. The RAM 1500's design was both functional and stylish, making it a popular choice among truck enthusiasts.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, with an optional six-speed manual transmission for certain trims. The Tacoma's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control, although these were not available with the manual transmission. Despite its off-road prowess, the Tacoma's on-road performance was less impressive, with slow steering and a noisy V6 engine. Fuel efficiency was also a concern, with ratings of 13.0 L/100 km in the city and 10.5 on the highway.

The 2020 RAM 1500 offered a range of engine options, including a 3.6-litre V6 with 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 featured a mild-hybrid system called eTorque, which improved fuel efficiency and provided additional torque when needed. The RAM 1500 also offered a 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine with 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, as well as a 3.0-litre EcoDiesel V6 with 260 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. The RAM 1500's towing capacity was impressive, with a maximum of 5,783 kilograms (12,750 pounds) for the V8 engine. Fuel efficiency varied depending on the engine and configuration, with the EcoDiesel offering the best ratings.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma's smaller size was a key selling point, making it easier to maneuver in urban environments and on trails. The Tacoma offered a choice of 5- or 6-foot bed lengths, with a rail system and movable cleats for securing cargo. The Double Cab's rear seats were suitable for short trips but lacked comfort for longer journeys. Storage options were limited, and the absence of a rear defroster was a drawback. Despite these limitations, the Tacoma's compact size and off-road capabilities made it a practical choice for those seeking a versatile pickup.

The 2020 RAM 1500 excelled in interior space and comfort, with a spacious cabin and class-leading storage options. The rear seats offered ample legroom and could even recline in higher trims. The RAM 1500's interior was well-appointed, with high-quality materials and thoughtful design elements. However, achieving the maximum towing capacity required specific configurations, which could limit the truck's overall functionality. Despite this, the RAM 1500's combination of comfort, space, and capability made it a strong contender in the full-size pickup segment.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma featured a straightforward and intuitive infotainment system, with a standard 7-inch touchscreen and an optional 8-inch version with navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility were standard, along with a new USB-C port. While the Tacoma's technology offerings were functional, they lacked the modernity of some competitors. A suite of driver assists, including adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams, was standard, enhancing the Tacoma's safety and convenience.

The 2020 RAM 1500 stood out with its advanced technology, particularly the tablet-style 12-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect system. This system was user-friendly and visually appealing, with seamless smartphone integration. The RAM 1500 also featured a range of engine technologies, including the eTorque mild hybrid system and the EcoDiesel engine. Push-button start and a wealth of USB and USB-C inputs were standard across all trims, ensuring convenience and connectivity for all passengers.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma came equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, which included forward-emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane-departure warning. Blind-spot monitoring was optional. The Tacoma received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with top ratings in most crash tests.

The 2020 RAM 1500 achieved 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, when equipped with the Crew Cab and optional safety features. While most safety features were available across trims, none were standard, allowing buyers to customize their truck to their needs. The RAM 1500's design also offered improved visibility, and its braking performance was consistent, though stopping distances were average for the class.