2023 RAM 2500 vs 2024 Toyota Tundra

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel presented a familiar yet distinct appearance, closely resembling the Power Wagon but with notable differences. It featured an aluminum sport hood, 20-inch wheels, and a sleek, blacked-out look, omitting the graphics, badging, and integrated winch of its counterpart. The Rebel's aggressive stance was complemented by a Rebel-specific grille and a crew-cab configuration with a 6-foot, 4-inch cargo bed. Inside, the Rebel offered a luxurious feel with quality materials and contrast stitching, though the glossy black plastic around the infotainment system was prone to dust and fingerprints.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota Tundra showcased a bold design with a massive grille aimed at enhancing powertrain cooling. While its industrial design theme conveyed durability, the interior was marred by plastic elements that detracted from the overall build quality. The Tundra offered various cab styles and trim levels, each equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 engine. Despite its rugged exterior, the cabin's creaking sounds and lack of underseat storage due to the hybrid battery were notable drawbacks.

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel came standard with a 6.4-litre V8 engine, delivering 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and 4WD. It also offered a 6.7-litre Cummins turbodiesel option, producing 370 hp and 850 lb-ft of torque, though this came with a higher price tag. The Rebel boasted a towing capacity of 16,870 pounds and a payload capacity of 3,140 pounds with the V8. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by 20-inch wheels, off-road tires, and a sophisticated suspension system, making it nearly as capable as the Power Wagon.

The 2024 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro excelled both on and off-road, equipped with a hybrid twin-turbo V6 engine producing 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4WD system. The TRD Pro offered a towing capacity of 11,175 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,600 pounds. Off-road enhancements included FOX shock absorbers, a front stabilizer bar, and various terrain control systems. Despite its capabilities, the Tundra's fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 16.5 L/100 km during testing.

The RAM 2500 Rebel required some physical effort to enter, but once inside, it offered a spacious and comfortable interior. The cabin featured premium leather seats, ample storage options, and a roomy Mega Cab back seat with additional amenities. The cargo box included options like a spray-in bedliner and Ram Box storage bins, though competitors offered more innovative bed features.

The Toyota Tundra's interior was spacious but compromised by the hybrid battery, which eliminated underseat storage. While the seats were wide and comfortable, the lack of helpful cargo bed features was evident during practical use. The Tundra's tailgate release system was innovative but lacked functionality, and accessing the cargo bed was less convenient compared to rivals.

The RAM 2500 Rebel introduced a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and an advanced Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 12-inch touchscreen. It featured Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system. The Rebel also offered enhanced camera systems and trailering technologies, including Trailer Reverse Steering Control.

The Toyota Tundra TRD Pro boasted a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a JBL audio system. Toyota provided generous trial subscriptions for connected services, enhancing the infotainment experience. However, the trailering assistance was modest compared to the RAM.

The RAM 2500 offered a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. While crash-test ratings were unavailable, its size and weight suggested robust safety in single-vehicle incidents.

The Toyota Tundra featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, with adaptive cruise control, collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. However, the lane-centring assist was less reliable. The Tundra received high safety ratings from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from IIHS, though it scored poorly in rear-seat passenger safety.