2022 RAM 1500 vs 2023 Toyota Tacoma

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 truck also debuted several new special editions and a Trailer Hitch Light feature as part of the Trailer Tow Group. 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 praised for its clean and contemporary look, with a luxurious interior that exuded quality and comfort.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma, a midsize truck, offered a more compact alternative to full-size pickups. It featured an assertive stance with an upright grille and tall bed, available in various trim levels, including the TRD Pro, which was tested in bright Solar Octane paint. The Tacoma offered multiple powertrain options, two bed lengths, and a choice between access cab and double cab configurations, resulting in 34 combinations with varying towing and payload capabilities. The TRD Pro trim was equipped with off-road features like underbody skid pads, a TRD-tuned suspension, and a locking rear differential. Inside, the Tacoma ranged from basic to well-appointed, with the TRD Pro featuring Softex leather-trimmed upholstery and heated front seats. While the Tacoma's interior was functional, it lacked the luxury feel of the RAM 1500.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered a range of engines, including a standard 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 with a mild-hybrid system called eTorque, and an optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8. The TRX model featured a supercharged 6.2-litre V8. The test truck was equipped with 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 ride quality was exceptional, thanks to its coil-spring rear suspension and optional air suspension, providing a smooth and quiet driving experience. However, the brake pedal's delayed action was a minor drawback.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma offered a standard 3.5-litre V6 engine with 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the V6 provided a power advantage, the Tacoma was not particularly quick, requiring significant throttle input to reach highway speeds. The truck's off-road-oriented suspension handled city streets well but resulted in vague steering and a tendency to wander on paved roads. Fuel economy was estimated at 13.0 L/100 km in the city and 11.9 combined, with the test truck achieving 14.4 L/100 km. The Tacoma faced increased competition from newer midsize trucks, and its performance was starting to feel dated.

The 2022 RAM 1500 featured power-deploying running boards, which could be turned on or off through the Uconnect 5 system. The Limited trim offered heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and ample space, with a reclining back seat for added comfort. The cabin provided practical storage solutions, including a versatile centre console and concealed storage under the rear floor. The multi-function tailgate could support 900 kilograms and offered different configurations for loading and unloading. The RAM 1500's interior was spacious and luxurious, with thoughtful design elements.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma offered various configurations, with the access cab featuring clamshell-style doors and a 1,872-millimetre bed, while the double cab provided a choice between a long bed and a shorter 1,537-millimetre bed. The access cab's rear seats were tight and uncomfortable, making the double cab a better choice for passengers. The front seats offered decent space and cubby storage, but the steering wheel's limited extension posed challenges for taller drivers. The Tacoma's bed was large enough to accommodate gear for a ski trip, but the interior lacked the RAM 1500's luxury and comfort.

The 2022 RAM 1500 introduced the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster performance and a range of features. The test truck featured a 12-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. While the system worked well, it had some user experience challenges, including voice recognition issues and complexity. The RAM 1500 also offered advanced trailering technology, including a surround-view camera system and Trailer Reverse Steering Control.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma's technology was straightforward but somewhat outdated. It featured a 7-inch touchscreen in base trims and an 8-inch touchscreen in higher trims, with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The test truck had a premium JBL audio system and USB-A ports. While the Tacoma offered essential tech features, it lacked the advanced options found in competitors like the Chevrolet Colorado and Honda Ridgeline.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered a range of driver-assist features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added features like automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, and a surround-view camera. The test truck had rear parking sensors and a rear automatic braking system, which proved problematic in some situations. The RAM 1500 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma came with Toyota Safety Sense, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The TRD Pro added blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors but lacked more advanced features like lane-keeping assist. The Tacoma did not receive a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS and scored four out of five stars in NHTSA crash tests.