Bob Brady Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM FIAT
Full-size pickup trucks continue to enjoy popularity in North America, despite the proliferation of midsize plus compact pickup trucks over the past decade. Nothing can really match a full-size pickup truck for sheer versatility, carrying capacity, and towing capability. That’s why models such as the 2023 RAM 1500 and the 2023 Toyota Tundra remain in demand.
The RAM pickup range became a separate marque of Chrysler Corporation, now known as Stellantis, in 2010. Prior to that, it was a part of the Dodge RAM pickup truck range. The 2023 RAM 1500 is based on the fifth generation of RAM Pickup, which debuted in 2019. The Toyota Tundra has also been around for a long time, and the 2023 Tundra is based on the third generation, which debuted in 2021.
Which one is likely to emerge as the best full-size pickup truck? To answer that question, let’s do a RAM 1500 vs. Tundra comparison and evaluate them in terms of performance, safety, and interior features.
The 2023 RAM 1500 and the 2023 Tundra come with two cab configurations, both of which have four doors and can seat up to five adults. The 2023 RAM 1500 offers a more spacious cab, with up to 132 cubic feet, in contrast to the 122 cubic feet that the 2023 Tundra can offer in its largest iteration.
All variants of the 2023 RAM 1500 and 2023 Tundra come with climate control, as well as standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ for smartphone integration. Moreover, the 2023 RAM 1500’s base touch screen is an 8.4-inch unit, with a 12-inch unit offered as an upgrade. The 2023 Tundra sticks to an 8-inch unit. Options on the 2023 RAM 1500, which may also be standard on higher trims, include heated and ventilated front seats, wood trim, a panoramic sunroof, and some nifty cabin storage options.
The 2023 RAM 1500 offers four powertrains to cater to every requirement. Let's first talk about the diesel option, as it may be desired primarily for work applications. This comprises a 3.0-liter turbodiesel with 240 horsepower. The entry-level gasoline engine is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that offers 305 horsepower plus an eTorque mild hybrid system. This enhances fuel efficiency, plus towing capabilities.
There are two V8s on offer too. The first is a 5.7-liter V8 that can be had with or without the eTorque system. It puts out 395 horsepower. However, for those who desire as much power as possible, the 2023 RAM 1500 TRX comes with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 from the factory. Its headline figure is an astonishing 702 horsepower, and it charges to sixty from rest in under four seconds. All variants feature an eight-speed automatic gearbox and rear-wheel drive as standard. An all-wheel-drive system can be optioned if desired, and it’s standard on the TRX.
The 2023 Tundra, in comparison, only offers a 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 with two power outputs. Lower trims receive 348 horsepower, with higher trims unlocking 389 horsepower. A 10-speed automatic gearbox and rear-wheel-drive are standard. An all-wheel-drive system is an option. There’s no diesel option or high-performance variant.
The 2023 RAM 1500 is rated to tow up to 12,750 pounds or carry up to 2,320 pounds of payload. This is better than the 2023 Tundra, which can only tow up to 12,000 pounds or manage up to 1,940 pounds of payload.
In the past, full-size pickup trucks used their sheer size as their prominent safety feature. Not anymore. On the 2023 RAM 1500 and the 2023 Tundra, you'll find at least six airbags, stability control, brake assist, child locks, and daytime running lamps across their respective ranges. Optional features include adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring.
The 2023 RAM 1500 wins our RAM vs. Toyota shootout in every metric. It's more spacious, powerful, capable, and versatile. The 2023 Tundra is admirable but acquits itself quietly. Want to experience a 2023 RAM 1500 for yourself? Swing by Bob Brady CDJR in Decatur, IL, and test drive the new RAM 1500.
