2022 Toyota Tundra vs 2023 RAM 2500

The 2022 Toyota Tundra marked the beginning of its third generation, showcasing a complete redesign from its predecessors. Every component, down to the turn signal stalks, was re-engineered, giving the Tundra a more dynamic and expressive exterior. The truck featured a large hexagonal grille with various trim-matched patterns and branding, including chrome, black, dark chrome, and grey-painted finishes. The TRD Pro trim stood out with "TOYOTA" badging in retro letters above an LED strip light. The Tundra's side profile appeared chiseled and muscular, with pronounced wheel arches and a neatly tucked rear. Inside, the Tundra embraced premium materials and amenities, highlighted by a 14-inch touchscreen display in higher trims, aiming to position itself as a family adventure vehicle.

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel shared a familiar look with the Power Wagon but with distinct features like an aluminum sport hood and 20-inch wheels. The Rebel's aggressive appearance was complemented by a blacked-out look and a Rebel-specific grille. It came in a crew-cab configuration with a 6-foot, 4-inch cargo bed. The interior boasted quality materials, contrast stitching, and fancy finishes, although the gloss black plastic surrounding the infotainment system was prone to showing dust and fingerprints. The Mega Cab back seat offered ample space and comfort, with air conditioning vents, heated outboard cushions, and USB charging ports. The Rebel's design aimed to balance rugged capability with everyday usability.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra introduced two new engines, moving away from the previous 5.7-litre V8. The base engine, the i-Force, was a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 with direct gasoline injection, delivering 389 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The i-Force Max, a hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain, combined the twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor-generator, producing 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Tundra's fuel consumption varied, with the RWD model rated at 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres combined, while the 4WD and hybrid versions consumed 12.2 L/100 km combined. The new chassis and suspension improved handling, with a switch to a multi-link rear suspension providing a more compliant ride. The Tundra excelled in off-road conditions, especially with the TRD Off-Road package.

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 and 4WD. The Rebel also offered a 6.7-litre Cummins turbodiesel inline-six engine, generating 370 hp and 850 lb-ft of torque, with a six-speed automatic transmission. The diesel option, while more efficient, was a costly upgrade. The V8 provided the Rebel's maximum towing capacity of 7,652 kilograms and a payload capacity of 1,455 kilograms. The Rebel's frame, made of 98.5 percent high-strength steel, contributed to its robust foundation. The truck featured 20-inch wheels, off-road tires, and a sophisticated suspension system, making it capable in challenging terrains. The Rebel's performance was smooth and refined, with the turbodiesel offering impressive torque.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra offered Double Cab and CrewMax configurations, both accommodating five passengers. The Double Cab provided 846 millimetres of rear seat legroom, while the CrewMax offered 1,057 mm. Bed options included a 6.5-foot or 8.1-foot bed for the Double Cab and a 5.5-foot or 6.5-foot bed for the CrewMax. The Tundra featured an aluminum-reinforced composite bed, saving weight and maintaining payload capacity. Towing capacity reached 5,443 kilograms, with standard trailer sway control and TOW/HAUL mode. Inside, smart storage solutions were prioritized, with features like a sliding tray in the front centre armrest and a conveniently placed 12-volt power tap.

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel required some physical effort to enter and exit, with large handles on the roof pillars aiding the process. The interior offered cloth or leather upholstery, with options for a front bench or bucket seats. The Mega Cab back seat was spacious and comfortable, with air conditioning vents, heated cushions, and USB ports. Storage was abundant, with hidden dashboard compartments and various shelves and bins. Cargo box options included a spray-in bedliner, LED lighting, and a deployable step for easier access. The available Ram Box locking bedside storage bins added to the truck's utility.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra featured a new infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen standard on lower trims and a 14-inch touchscreen on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Toyota Connected services. Upper trims offered a 12-speaker JBL premium audio system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. Off-road features included a multi-terrain select system with crawl control and downhill assist control, enhancing the Tundra's off-road capabilities.

The 2023 RAM 2500 introduced a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel, offering gauge and menu tile display configurations. The truck's exterior camera systems and trailering technologies received upgrades, including blind-spot cameras and a digital rearview mirror. The Trailer Reverse Steering Control feature allowed for easier trailer maneuvering. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system, with a 12-inch touchscreen, included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. The optional 17-speaker Harman Kardon sound system provided excellent audio quality.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, featuring a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. The Star Safety System included enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. Eight airbags were distributed within the cabin, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was available on most trims.

The 2023 RAM 2500 offered advanced driving assistance systems, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The driving aids proved effective on wide highways, although their performance in denser traffic was untested. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the truck's size and weight provided a sense of security.