2023 RAM 2500 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 among heavy-duty trucks, the interior left something to be desired. The material quality, especially in top trims, didn't quite match up to competitors like Ram and Ford. The cabin, though not cramped, wasn't as spacious as the Ram 1500 or Ford Super Duty.

In contrast, the 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel shared a similar aggressive appearance with the Power Wagon but featured a cleaner look with an aluminum sport hood and 20-inch wheels. The Rebel came with a crew-cab configuration and a 6-foot, 4-inch cargo bed. Inside, the Rebel's quality materials and contrast stitching lent it a luxurious feel, though the gloss black plastic around the infotainment system was prone to showing dust and fingerprints. The interior was spacious, with comfortable seating and ample storage options.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a 6.6-litre V8 engine with 445 horsepower and 910 pound-feet of torque, paired with an excellent Allison 10-speed automatic transmission. Despite its impressive power, it was not the most capable in its class, with a maximum payload capacity of 1,637 kilograms and a towing capacity of 8,391 kilograms. The AT4 trim, equipped with off-road features like an automatic-locking rear differential and a two-speed transfer case, excelled in off-road conditions, though the ride was jittery on uneven pavement.

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel came standard with a 6.4-litre V8 engine producing 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. An optional 6.7-litre Cummins turbodiesel engine offered 370 horsepower and 850 pound-feet of torque, with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Rebel's maximum towing capacity was 7,652 kilograms with the V8 engine. The Cummins engine provided better fuel efficiency, though it came at a higher price. The Rebel's off-road capabilities were nearly on par with the Power Wagon, with features like a locking rear differential and skid plates.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered three cab configurations and two pickup bed lengths, with seating for up to six passengers. The interior was spacious, with ample headroom, legroom, and storage options, including a wide centre console and dual glove boxes. The MultiPro tailgate, available on higher trims, provided six functions to improve cargo box access and utility.

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel required some effort to enter and exit, with large handles on the roof pillars aiding the process. The interior featured premium Natura Plus leather and bucket seats, with a spacious Mega Cab back seat offering additional comfort and storage. The Rebel's cargo box options included a spray-in bedliner and LED lighting, with the available Ram Box storage bins providing extra utility.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD featured a range of infotainment systems with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. 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 delivered rich sound, while the 15 available camera views, including a "transparent trailer" view, enhanced towing and visibility.

The 2023 RAM 2500 introduced a new 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and improvements to its camera systems and trailering technologies. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system, with a 12-inch touchscreen, offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. The optional 17-speaker Harman Kardon sound system provided excellent audio quality. The voice-recognition system worked well, though it required specific commands for navigation.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of driver-assistive 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 2023 RAM 2500 included advanced driving assistance systems like automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems proved useful on wide highways. Like the Sierra, the RAM 2500 was not rated by NHTSA or IIHS due to its size.