2022 Ford F-150 Lightning vs 2023 RAM 1500

The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning, despite being a groundbreaking electric vehicle, maintained a familiar appearance akin to its gas-powered siblings. It featured subtle yet distinctive styling cues, such as a prominent LED headlight bar and a faux grille, which set it apart from traditional F-150 models. Available in three trims—XLT, Lariat, and Platinum—the Lightning offered a crew cab and a 5.5-foot bed, with the Pro grade reserved for fleet customers. Inside, the Lightning provided ample space, with front and rear legroom surpassing many two-row crossovers. The interior boasted quality materials and ergonomic design, complemented by features like a panoramic sunroof and a versatile interior work surface.

In contrast, the 2023 RAM 1500 Limited exuded a more luxurious and stealthy aesthetic, especially with the optional Night Edition package. The truck's exterior was adorned with 22-inch black aluminum wheels, while the interior showcased premium leather, open-pore wood, and metallic trim. The 12-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen added a modern touch, accompanied by practical features like a sliding centre console and ample storage space. The RAM 1500's crew cab configuration provided generous rear legroom, and the multifunction tailgate and RamBox storage system enhanced its practicality.

The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning stood out with its dual electric motors, delivering 426 horsepower with the standard range battery and 563 horsepower with the extended range battery, along with a remarkable 775 lb-ft of torque. All models featured all-wheel drive, and the extended range battery offered a range of 515 kilometres. Despite its impressive acceleration and low centre of gravity, the Lightning's substantial weight limited its agility on winding roads. The truck's independent rear suspension, a departure from traditional leaf springs, was designed to accommodate the battery packs, enhancing its ride quality.

The 2023 RAM 1500 offered a range of engine options, including a 3.6-litre V6 with eTorque, a 5.7-litre Hemi V8, and a 3.0-litre EcoDiesel engine. The V8, with 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, provided robust performance, complemented by the smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. The RAM 1500's coilover rear suspension and optional air suspension delivered a comfortable ride, while its towing capacity reached up to 5,783 kilograms. The TRX variant, with a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 producing 702 horsepower, was a standout for off-road enthusiasts.

The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning offered a 5.5-foot bed with numerous tie-down points, and its standout feature was the 400-litre "Mega Power Frunk," providing additional storage space. The truck's Ford Intelligent Backup Power feature allowed it to serve as a backup generator, capable of powering a household for three days. While its towing capacity reached 4,535 kilograms, heavy loads could impact its driving range. Onboard scales helped manage payloads, ensuring efficient use of the truck's capabilities.

The 2023 RAM 1500 excelled in interior storage, with a two-tiered centre console and ample cubbies throughout the cabin. The crew cab configuration offered 1,148 millimetres of rear legroom, and the multifunction tailgate and RamBox storage system added versatility. The truck's air suspension lowered the tailgate height, facilitating easier loading and unloading.

The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning featured a 12-inch touchscreen with Sync 4 on lower trims, while higher trims boasted a 15-inch portrait-oriented display. The infotainment system included SiriusXM satellite radio, wireless charging, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lariat trim added an 8-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo, with the Platinum trim upgrading to 15 speakers. The Lightning also offered games in the infotainment system, providing entertainment during charging sessions.

The 2023 RAM 1500 introduced a reconfigurable 12-inch gauge cluster, though it was not available on the tested model. The 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system allowed for dual-function display, and the Uconnect system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional Equipment Group 1 added a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and surround-view camera system, enhancing the truck's technological offerings.

The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning came equipped with Ford's Co-Pilot 360 advanced driver assistance systems, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot warning. Additional features like Ford BlueCruise, a hands-free driving system, were available on higher trims, ensuring a comprehensive safety suite.

The 2023 RAM 1500, while lacking standard advanced driver-assist systems, offered features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control as options. The truck received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and Good marks from the IIHS, though it had some areas for improvement in seat belt reminders and LATCH ease of use.