2022 RAM 1500 vs 2022 GMC Sierra 1500

The 2022 RAM 1500 was available in both Quad Cab and Crew Cab styles, offering a standard 6-foot, 4-inch cargo box, with a 5-foot, 7-inch box option for Crew Cab models. Canadian buyers could choose from eight trim levels, ranging from the basic Tradesman to the high-performance TRX. The model year introduced the next-generation Uconnect 5 infotainment system, standard on higher trims and optional on lower ones, featuring an 8.4-inch or 12-inch touchscreen display. The new Trailer Hitch Light feature, part of the Trailer Tow Group, improved visibility after dark. The Limited trim test truck came with a turbodiesel engine, 4WD, and a host of luxury features, including a Limited 10th Anniversary Edition package with premium leather upholstery and a 19-speaker sound system. The RAM 1500's design was clean and contemporary, with a luxurious interior that exuded quality, thanks to its high-end materials and construction.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 introduced the Denali Ultimate and AT4X variants, expanding on the premium Denali and AT4 trims. The Sierra's updated grille, front fascia, and headlight design gave it a wider appearance, with the Denali featuring a "tri-linear" grille theme and the Denali Ultimate sporting dark-coloured "Vader bars." The Sierra offered eight trim levels, with new 22-inch wheel designs for Denali and Denali Ultimate models. The interior saw significant changes, with a redesigned dash and new materials elevating the cabin's luxury feel. The AT4X was developed for off-road driving, featuring premium leather, Vanta ash wood trim, and a microsuede headliner. The Denali Ultimate boasted full-grain leather, open-pore Paldao wood, and microsuede trim, with topographical maps of Mount Denali embossed and laser-etched throughout the cabin.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered several engine options, including a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 with a mild-hybrid system called eTorque, a 5.7-litre Hemi V8, and a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 in the TRX model. The test truck featured the EcoDiesel engine, a turbocharged 3.0-litre diesel 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, with the test truck managing 4,354 kilograms. Fuel consumption was estimated at 9.7 litres per 100 kilometres, with the test achieving 9.5 L/100 km. The RAM 1500's coil-spring rear suspension and optional air suspension provided a smooth ride, while the interior remained quiet and comfortable. However, the brake pedal's delayed action was a minor drawback.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 offered four engine options, including a 2.7L turbo four-cylinder, a 3.8-litre Duramax turbo-diesel inline-six, a 5.3-litre V8, and a 6.2L Ecotec3 V8. The turbo-four produced 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The diesel engine delivered 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 5,987 kilograms for 2WD models. The Sierra Denali Ultimate 4WD provided a smooth and quiet ride, while the AT4X impressed with its off-road capabilities, featuring Multimatic DSSV dampers and e-locking differentials. The AT4X handled challenging terrain with ease, though the off-road test didn't fully showcase its potential.

The 2022 RAM 1500 featured power-deploying running boards, adjustable through the Uconnect 5 system. The Limited trim offered heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and ample space for passengers. Practical storage solutions included a centre console with trays and bins, rear centre armrest with cupholders, and concealed storage under the rear floor. The multi-function tailgate supported 900 kilograms and could swing open for easier access. Optional RamBox storage bins provided additional cargo space.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 boasted best-in-class cargo capacity, with front headroom of 1,093 mm and legroom of 1,131 mm. Rear-seat passengers in the crew cab enjoyed 1,102 mm of legroom. The cabin offered numerous storage compartments, though the gloveboxes were on the smaller side. The driver-oriented cockpit featured a low centreline, with screens and controls positioned lower than expected. The AT4X's off-road controls were split between the steering wheel and centre console, adding to the complexity.

The 2022 RAM 1500 introduced the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster performance and a range of features. The test vehicle had a 12-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and connected services. A 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and Ramcharger wireless charging dock were available. The system's complexity posed challenges, and voice recognition required specific language. Trailering technology included a head-up display, digital rearview camera mirror, and surround-view camera system.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 featured larger display screens, with a 12.3-inch digital cluster and 13.4-inch touchscreen on most grades. The infotainment system included Google built-in, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a 15-inch head-up display. The touchscreen allowed for personalization and dual modes, while wireless charging was available on higher grades. The system was fast and responsive, though distinguishing between in-car and smartphone navigation could be confusing.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered driver-assist features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Advanced Safety Group included a head-up display, surround-view camera, and parking assistance. The test truck had rear parking sensors and a rear automatic braking system, though the latter was incompatible with some driveways. The LaneSense lane-keep assist system was turned off due to its insistent corrections. The RAM 1500 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 introduced GM's Super Cruise, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system available on the Denali Ultimate. Super Cruise handled automatic lane changes and trailering, with up to 14 camera views for assistance. GMC Pro Safety included forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The Sierra received "Good" crash safety ratings from the IIHS but was rated "Marginal" in the front-passenger small overlap test. The NHTSA awarded four stars for crashworthiness to 2WD models.