2023 RAM 2500 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 shorter 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 display. The Trailer Tow Group added a new Trailer Hitch Light feature, enhancing 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 truck's design was praised for its clean and contemporary look, while the interior exuded quality with its two-tone colour scheme and high construction standards.

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel shared similarities with the Power Wagon but featured a distinct aluminum sport hood, 20-inch wheels, and a blacked-out look. It came with a Rebel-specific grille and a crew-cab configuration with a 6-foot, 4-inch cargo bed. The standard engine was a 6.4-litre V8, but a 6.7-litre Cummins turbodiesel was also available. The base price was set at $79,195, with various trims and options pushing the MSRP to $98,920 in Canada. The 2500 Rebel benefited from new features like a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and enhanced towing technologies. The interior was luxurious, with quality materials and finishes, though the gloss black plastic around the infotainment system was a drawback. The truck was smooth and refined on various terrains, with the Cummins engine offering better fuel economy despite its higher price.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered several engine options, including a 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. It had a towing capacity of up to 5,697 kilograms and a payload capacity of 807 kg. The truck's fuel economy was impressive, averaging 9.5 L/100 km during testing. The ride quality was exceptional, thanks to the coil-spring rear suspension and optional air suspension, making it feel more like an SUV than a pickup. However, the brake pedal's delayed action was a minor issue.

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel came with a standard 6.4-litre V8 engine producing 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The optional Cummins 6.7-litre turbodiesel engine delivered 370 hp and 850 lb-ft of torque, with a six-speed automatic transmission. The V8 offered a maximum towing capacity of 7,652 kilograms and a payload capacity of 1,455 kg. The Cummins engine was more fuel-efficient, with observed consumption as low as 12.3 L/100 km on highways. The Rebel's frame was made of high-strength steel, and it featured a five-link rear suspension for excellent ride and handling. The truck was capable off-road, with 20-inch wheels, off-road tires, and a locking rear differential. The Cummins engine's higher price meant a longer payback period for fuel savings.

The 2022 RAM 1500's power-deploying running boards required navigation through the Uconnect 5 system to activate. The Limited trim offered heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and ample space, with a reclining back seat for added comfort. Storage was plentiful, with a versatile centre console, door panel bins, and under-floor Ram Bins. The multi-function tailgate could support 900 kg and offered easy access to the bed. Optional RamBox storage bins provided additional secure storage.

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel required physical effort to enter, with large handles aiding access. The interior featured a column shifter for the Cummins engine, which felt less refined. Depending on the configuration, the truck offered cloth or leather upholstery and bench or bucket seats. The Mega Cab back seat was spacious and comfortable, with various amenities. Storage was abundant, with hidden dashboard compartments and numerous bins. Cargo box options included a spray-in bedliner and LED lighting, with the RamBox storage bins being a standout feature.

The 2022 RAM 1500 introduced the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster performance and a range of features. The test truck had a 12-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. The system's complexity posed some challenges, but it was an improvement over the previous version. Additional tech options included a head-up display, digital rearview camera mirror, and trailering technologies like Trailer Reverse Steering Control.

The 2023 RAM 2500 featured a new 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and improved camera systems. The Uconnect 5 system was standard, with a 12-inch touchscreen offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM 360L. The optional 17-speaker Harman Kardon sound system was impressive. The infotainment screen remained visible in bright conditions, and the voice-recognition system handled common queries well. The truck also offered Trailer Reverse Steering Control and a digital rearview mirror for enhanced visibility.

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 automatic emergency braking. The test truck had rear parking sensors and a rear automatic braking system, which was sometimes overly sensitive. The IIHS awarded the RAM 1500 a Top Safety Pick rating, while the NHTSA gave it a five-star overall rating.

The 2023 RAM 2500 offered advanced driving assistance systems, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The test truck's systems proved effective on highways, but their performance in denser traffic was untested. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the truck's size and weight suggested a robust safety profile.