2022 RAM 1500 vs 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD, redesigned for the 2020 model year, boasted a bold exterior with a tall hood, squared-off lines, and a massive grille, giving it a commanding presence. While its exterior design was considered one of the better-looking heavy-duty trucks, the interior fell short in material quality, especially in top trims compared to competitors like Ram and Ford. The cabin, though not cramped, wasn't as spacious as the Ram 1500 and Ford Super Duty. The Sierra 2500HD offered five trim levels, each with distinct features, and was available in regular, extended, and crew cab styles. The AT4 trim, which we tested, was off-road-focused, featuring black chrome accents, C-shaped LED lighting, and a premium interior with Jet Black and Kalahari upholstery, making it a rugged yet luxurious off-roader.

In contrast, the 2022 RAM 1500 was available in Quad Cab and Crew Cab styles, with eight trim levels ranging from the basic Tradesman to the high-performance TRX. The RAM 1500's design was clean and contemporary, with vestiges of the "big rig" styling. Inside, the Limited trim exuded luxury with Indigo and Sea Salt quilted leather upholstery, a suede headliner, and a 19-speaker premium sound system. The cabin's quality was outstanding, with a busy design featuring exposed stitching and mixed materials. The RAM 1500's interior was spacious, with heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a reclining back seat, providing supreme comfort for passengers.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD was equipped with a 6.6-litre V8 engine, available in both gas and turbodiesel variants. The Duramax diesel engine, paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque. Despite its impressive power, the Sierra 2500HD was not the most capable in its class, with a maximum towing capacity of 8,391 kilograms (18,500 pounds) on the AT4 trim. The truck's ride was jittery when unladen but improved with added weight. The AT4 trim excelled in off-roading, featuring an automatic-locking rear differential, a two-speed transfer case, and an X31 off-road suspension.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered several engine options, including a 3.6-litre V6 with eTorque, a 5.7-litre Hemi V8, and a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 in the TRX. Our test truck had the EcoDiesel engine, a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 producing 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The EcoDiesel's towing capacity reached up to 5,697 kilograms (12,560 pounds), with our Crew Cab Limited 4WD managing 4,354 kilograms (9,600 pounds). The RAM 1500's ride quality was exceptional, thanks to its coil-spring rear suspension and optional air suspension, providing a smooth and quiet driving experience.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered three cab configurations, two pickup bed lengths, and available 4WD, making it a highly functional truck. It could seat up to six passengers, with abundant space in all seating positions. The AT4 package added extra lift, requiring effort to enter the truck, but the side assist step aided traction. Inside, the Sierra 2500HD featured a wide centre console, dual glove boxes, and hidden storage compartments. The MultiPro tailgate, available on higher trims, offered six functions to improve cargo box access.

The 2022 RAM 1500's interior was spacious and comfortable, with power-deploying running boards for easy access. The Limited trim featured heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a reclining back seat. Practical storage was abundant, with a centre console, rear armrest, and Ram Bins for concealed storage. The multi-function tailgate could support 900 kilograms (2,000 pounds) and offered easy bed access. The RAM 1500 could also be equipped with RamBox storage bins, though our test vehicle did not have them.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of infotainment systems with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard on SLT and above, with a navigation system available on higher trims. The Bose premium audio system provided rich sound, though the voice-recognition system had some quirks. The Sierra's 15 available camera views, including a "transparent trailer" view, enhanced towing and safety.

The 2022 RAM 1500 featured the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, standard from the Sport trim. It offered an 8.4-inch or 12-inch touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and satellite radio. Our test vehicle had the 12-inch display and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. While Uconnect 5 was an improvement, it had some user experience challenges. The RAM 1500 also offered advanced trailering technology, including Trailer Reverse Steering Control.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD was available with advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Teen Driver system was standard, helping parents monitor their teen's driving habits. Due to its high GVWR, the Sierra 2500HD was not rated by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered driver-assist features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims included automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, and a surround-view camera. The RAM 1500 received a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though frontal-impact ratings suggested room for improvement.