2021 RAM 1500 vs 2020 Toyota Tundra

The 2020 Toyota Tundra was available in three models in Canada: SR, SR5, and Platinum, with various package configurations for the SR5 trim, including SX, TRD Off-road, and TRD Pro, among others. The Platinum model offered a 1794 Edition package. As buyers moved up the trim levels, the Tundra became more luxurious. It featured two cab styles, Double Cab and CrewMax, with three bed lengths depending on the cab and trim. Prices ranged from an MSRP of $40,650 to $63,190, excluding destination charges and options. The TRD Pro CrewMax, the most expensive version, boasted a 4WD drivetrain, exclusive Army Green paint, and black 18-inch forged aluminum wheels, giving it a rugged, military-grade look. Inside, the TRD Pro featured black leather with red stitching and embroidery, though the interior's industrial-grade plastic was less appealing at higher price points.

The 2021 RAM 1500, a carryover model from its 2019 redesign, maintained its mix-and-match configurations of quad cab or crew cab models, with bed lengths of five-foot, seven-inch or six-foot, four-inch. The standout for 2021 was the all-new TRX model, inspired by off-road rally races. The TRX, a crew cab-only 4x4, featured a five-foot, seven-inch box and a commanding presence with a functioning hood scoop, massive grille, and fender vents. It sat on a 3,685.5 mm wheelbase, with a height and width of 2,055 mm and 2,235 mm, respectively. The TRX's dimensions straddled commercial vehicle territory, requiring identifier lamps. It offered a skid plate-equipped ground clearance of 229.7 mm and could ford up to 81 cm of water. The TRX's exterior was complemented by a first-class interior, with standard black premium cloth and vinyl upholstery, available leather and suede materials, and a 12-inch Uconnect infotainment display.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra was powered by a 5.7-litre V8 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, delivering 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 401 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. It had a maximum towing capacity of 4,536 kilograms and a payload capacity of up to 784 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The TRD Pro model featured BBS forged aluminum wheels, heavy-duty Fox off-road shocks, a TRD-tuned dual exhaust system, and an aluminum skid plate. The V8 engine produced a sensational sound, though it could be loud for bystanders. The Tundra's steering and brakes were reliable, and its turning radius was impressively tight. However, fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with a combined consumption of 16.3 L/100 km.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX was equipped with 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 towing capability of 3,674 kg. The TRX accelerated to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and had a top speed of 190 km/h. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and a segment-exclusive four-corner air suspension. The TRX's fuel consumption was high, with a combined rating of 19.8 L/100 km. During testing, the TRX demonstrated its capabilities on various terrains, including off-road tracks and mountain courses, with features like Selec-Speed Control and launch control enhancing its performance.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra, built in Texas, offered a spacious interior, with the CrewMax's rear seating area being particularly large. The front seats were supportive and comfortable, though storage options were limited. The Tundra's bed was basic, lacking features like locking storage wells or step ladders. The truck emphasized simplicity over frills.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX focused on functionality, with available full-length rock rails and running boards. Despite its larger exterior, the TRX's interior dimensions were identical to the standard Ram, offering ample headroom and legroom. The cabin featured numerous storage options, and the front seats were comfortable and adjustable. The TRX's seating position offered more adjustability compared to rivals, enhancing driver comfort on long drives.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra's infotainment system, though surrounded by hard plastic, was up to date, with a 7-inch or 8-inch display depending on the trim. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and USB ports. The TRD Pro trim featured dynamic navigation, voice recognition, and a 12-speaker JBL audio system. However, the system lacked advanced towing technology.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX came with a 12-inch Uconnect 4C infotainment system, offering a customizable display and features like Performance Pages and Off-Road Pages. It included wireless charging, smartphone integration, and a 10-speaker Alpine audio system, with an optional 19-speaker Harmon Kardon package. The TRX also introduced a full-colour head-up display, providing real-time driving information.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra included the Toyota Safety Sense suite, with features like a pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control, and lane departure alert. However, its crash-test performance was lacking, with Marginal and Poor ratings in certain tests by the IIHS. The NHTSA ratings were more favourable, with 5 stars for side-impact protection and 4 stars for frontal-impact protection.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX offered over 100 safety and security features, though many were optional. Standard features included a rear backup camera, with available options like a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The TRX also featured passive safety measures like an auto-reverse feature for windows and sunroof, and an enhanced accident response system.