2022 RAM 1500 vs 2022 Toyota Tundra

The Best Full-Size Truck: 2022 RAM 1500 vs 2022 Toyota Tundra

The full-sized pickup truck category is the most widely considered amongst truck buyers in Minnesota. The reason is not just because they’re more capable than their mid-sized counterparts, but they’re also more luxurious, accommodating and durable.

There are plenty full size trucks on the market, so how do you know which is the best option for you? The Ram 1500 and Toyota Tundra are often compared as they are both well-regarded in the full size truck segment. The Ram 1500 is a class leader, featuring ample luxury, tech and power. Meanwhile, the 2022 Toyota Tundra has been redesigned, and in the past has been known for reliability, build quality and utility.

Can the new Tundra compete with the mighty Ram though? Let’s find out.

Specs and Capability

We begin with the technical stuff, starting with the powertrain. The entry-level motor in the 2022 Ram 1500 is a 3.6L V6 engine that makes 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. There’s a 5.7L V8 engine as well, which produces 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque.

If you get the high-performance Ram TRX, it will feature a 6.2L V8 making an insane 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. There’s a 3.0L turbocharged diesel engine as well. All these engines pair up with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Power can go to the rear and/or all four wheels.

In comparison, the Tundra has a choice of two engines: a twin-turbo and a hybrid V6. The former produces 389 horsepower and 479 torques. While the latter makes 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft. Toyota scrapped the V8 but it has added a 10-speed automatic transmission as standard.

But what do we get from all these engine options between these two trucks? In the case of the Ram, you can tow up to 12,750 pounds; the payload goes up to 2320 pounds. These are some of the highest numbers in the truck market. The Tundra isn’t far behind with towing and payload capacities of 12,000 and 1920 respectively.

As far as the suspension is concerned, both trucks ride well and are comfortable. This is attributed to their modern coil spring setups. The Ram also comes with available air suspension, which allows you to adjust the ride height. Regardless, both these trucks handle well, but Ram has the slight edge due to the air suspension system.

Utility

Pickup trucks have come a long way. New models are now much more refined and luxurious. Take the Ram 1500 for example, its handsome interior is made from high-quality materials throughout, and depending on which trim level you get, the safety and technology are second to none. The Tundra is also built to last, and the interior quality improves as you move up in trim as well.

As for your options with these two segment leaders, there’s a lot to cover. The cargo space is large and plenty; the Ram features 5’7’’ and 6’4’’ sized truck beds. Under-seat and in-floor storage are optional. Meanwhile, the Tundra offers you 5.5-, 6.5-, and 8.1-foot truck beds based on the cab you get. Both have ample amounts of cargo space for hockey and golf bags, tools, or whatever else you need to take on the go with you.

You should expect a lot technology and luxury as well; from the Ram at least. The Ram’s interior is beautifully designed with upscale materials and upholstery. Noise cancellation has been implemented in the cabin. Perforated leather seats are available and so is a choice of different colors and patterns for the interior.

You can get ventilated seats, a head-up display, a digital rearview mirror, and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof. For infotainment, there’s a choice between an 8.4-inch display or a 12-inch vertical display. Combine this with a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, plus connectivity for Apple and Android users, and the Ram has everything you need.

The Tundra has improved with its redesign.  8-inch and 14-inch options are offered for the touchscreen, plus Apple and Android connectivity. Also available is heated and ventilated seating, plus a panoramic moonroof is an option you can add as well. Of course, you can get a more luxurious interior by moving up in trim and price.

Safety

The Ram 1500 is a Top Safety Pick of the IIHS, while the Tundra does decently in these tests but falls short of the top spot, as did the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and GMC Sierra. Safety has become a top priority for all vehicles, and it is at the the front the the 2022 Ram 1500 design.

The 2022 Ram 1500 offers a 360-degree surround view camera, electronic stability control, and forward collision warning with active braking. You can add parallel and perpendicular park assists, blind spot awareness, rear cross path detection, adaptive cruise control, and more.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra does come with more safety technology standard, as you get automated emergency braking, lane assist, adaptive cruise control and forward-collision warning. You can add blind spot monitoring to this as well, but that’s it. Although you get more standard safety equipment with the Tundra, the Ram 1500 has far more available options, depending on what matters most to you.

What makes sense for you?

If you’re looking for a full-size pickup truck, both of these vehicles are excellent choices. See a comparison of trim levels and price below, as well as some key features that set these two apart.

Car and Driver: 2022 RAM 1500 on 10-Best List for the fourth year in a row.

2022 Ram 1500 Trim MSRP       2022 Toyota Tundra Trim  MSRP

Tradesman   $36,195                                        SR                  $37,645

HFE               $37,750                                        SR5                $42,450

Lone Star     $40,995                                        Limited         $50,595

Big Horn       $40,995                                       TRD Pro       $57,000

Laramie        $45,140                                        Platinum      $58,685

Rebel             $49,935                                       1794 Edition $59,385

Longhorn      $56,490

Limited         $61,305

2022 Ram 1500                                    2022 Toyota Tundra

• More engine options
• Higher max towing and payload
• Optional air suspension
• More luxurious options                             Larger truck bed option
• More available technology                        Larger infotainment screen option
• Larger variety of safety features              More standard safety equipment
• Rated top safety pick (IIHS)                     Trim dedicated to off-roading (TRD Pro)

Looking at the MSRP shows us that the base Ram is the cheapest. However, it does get pricier as you move up the trims, but with that comes more luxury amenities, technology, and safety equipment.

In short, both the trucks will give you an upscale feeling, a comfortable ride, spacious interiors and unparalleled durability. They’re both priced in a similar manner, and have nearly identical MPG ratings.
Is there a bad option? No. However, if you’re looking for the best half-ton truck in the industry, and the vehicle rated best overall in initial quality by JD Power for 2021, then look no further than the Ram 1500.