2023 GMC Sierra 1500 vs 2022 RAM 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, available on lower trims and standard on higher ones, featuring an 8.4-inch or 12-inch touchscreen. The Trailer Tow Group added a new Trailer Hitch Light feature, enhancing visibility after dark. The Limited trim of the RAM 1500 Crew Cab 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 truck's design was praised for its clean and contemporary look, with a luxurious interior that exuded quality and comfort.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 received a styling update in 2022, featuring a wider grille and updated headlights. While the exterior changes were subtle, the interior saw a significant departure from previous models, with a large screen and a more complex layout. The Sierra offered trims such as Pro, SLE, Elevation, SLT, AT4, AT4X, Denali, and Denali Ultimate. The base Pro trim retained a simpler infotainment system, while higher trims featured a 13.4-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Denali Ultimate trim, which was tested, included nearly every optional feature, such as a Kicker sound system, full-grain leather, and massaging front seats. The Sierra's interior was spacious, with ample storage and a versatile MultiPro tailgate. The truck was noted for its smooth and composed ride, although maneuverability in tight spaces was a challenge.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered several engine options, including a standard 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 with a mild-hybrid system, a 5.7-litre Hemi V8, and a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 for the TRX model. The test truck featured the EcoDiesel engine, a 3.0-litre turbocharged 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 was praised for its smooth ride, thanks to its coil-spring rear suspension and optional air suspension, providing a quiet and comfortable driving experience. However, the brake pedal's delayed action was noted as a drawback.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 offered four powertrain options, including a 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-litre Duramax turbocharged inline-six diesel engine with 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque. Two gas V8 engines were also available: a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft, and a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. The diesel engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a towing capacity of up to 5,987 kilograms. The Sierra was noted for its smooth and composed ride, with responsive steering and brakes. However, its wide turning radius made maneuverability in tight spaces challenging. The Denali Ultimate trim offered a comfortable and powerful driving experience, while the AT4 and AT4X trims were designed for off-road capability.

The 2022 RAM 1500 featured power-deploying running boards, which could be turned on or off through the Uconnect 5 infotainment system. The Limited trim offered heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and ample cabin space. Practical storage solutions included a centre console with trays and bins, rear-seat cushions that flipped up for additional cargo space, and a multi-function tailgate with a 900-kilogram weight capacity. The RAM 1500 could also be equipped with RamBox storage bins, although the test vehicle did not have them.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 offered various cab and bed configurations, with the crew cab/short-bed setup providing ample cabin space. The interior featured large storage trays in the doors, a centre console with cup holders and a deep storage compartment, and a rear bench that folded up for additional storage. The Denali Ultimate trim included the MultiPro tailgate, offering multiple configurations for convenience. Bed steps were integrated into the rear bumper for easy access to the cargo bed.

The 2022 RAM 1500 introduced the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster loading times and improved features. The test vehicle featured a 12-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. However, the system's complexity posed user experience challenges, and the voice recognition system required specific language. Additional tech options included a head-up display, digital rearview camera mirror, and a surround-view camera system.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 featured a 7-inch touchscreen in the base Pro trim, while higher trims had a 13.4-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system included Google-connected apps, trailering status apps, and average fuel economy displays. The Denali Ultimate trim offered a wireless charging pad, USB ports, and a wall-style power outlet. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a head-up display were also available, providing critical information to the driver.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered driver-assist features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Advanced Safety Group included additional features like a head-up display and surround-view camera. The test truck had rear parking sensors and a rear automatic braking system, although the latter proved incompatible with some driveways. The IIHS awarded the RAM 1500 a Top Safety Pick rating, while the NHTSA gave it a five-star overall rating.

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 came standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, and GM’s Teen Driver system. Higher trims offered additional features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and GM’s Super Cruise driver assist system. The Denali Ultimate trim included a surround-view camera system and rear-vision camera mirror, enhancing visibility and parking maneuverability.