2020 Toyota Tacoma vs 2020 RAM 2500

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma was a straightforward and practical pickup, embodying a clean and simple design. While it didn't boast the aesthetic appeal of some full-size pickups, it maintained a rugged charm with its rounded body and chiseled panels. The Tacoma's TRD Pro model featured distinctive design elements like redesigned LED headlights, a chunky grille, and a bold Army Green paint option. Despite its rugged exterior, the Tacoma's interior was more utilitarian, with a straightforward dash and a modest touchscreen. The materials used were durable but not luxurious, focusing more on functionality than opulence.

In contrast, the 2020 RAM 2500 exuded elegance and upscale design, setting itself apart from its competitors. Its grille, tailored for each trim level, and sleek LED headlights contributed to its sophisticated appearance. The RAM 2500's interior was a testament to luxury, especially in higher trims like the Laramie Longhorn and Limited. It featured soft-grained leather, intricate stitching, and high-quality materials, creating an ambiance akin to a luxury vehicle. The attention to detail extended to the grab handles and shifter knob, making the RAM 2500 a standout in terms of interior craftsmanship.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma offered a choice between a lackluster 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine and a more robust 3.5-liter V6. The V6, producing 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, was the preferred option for most buyers. It came with a 6-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with 4-wheel drive available on higher trims. The Tacoma's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control, although these were not essential for all drivers. Despite its off-road prowess, the Tacoma's on-road performance was less impressive, with slow steering and a noisy V6 engine. Fuel economy was subpar, with the V6 achieving 18 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.

The 2020 RAM 2500 offered a choice between a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 and a 6.7-liter Cummins diesel engine. The Hemi V8 delivered 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, while the diesel engine produced 370 horsepower and a massive 850 lb-ft of torque. The RAM 2500 excelled in towing and payload capacities, with the diesel variant capable of towing up to 19,780 pounds. Despite its size, the RAM 2500 was surprisingly quick on the highway, although its steering was loose and the ride was stiff. The diesel's exhaust brake was a standout feature, providing excellent braking performance and extending brake life. Fuel economy was not officially rated, but the diesel engine averaged close to 19 mpg on the highway.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma's compact size was a major selling point, making it easier to maneuver in urban environments compared to larger trucks. It offered a choice of 5- or 6-foot bed lengths, with a rail system and optional power outlet for added convenience. The Double Cab's rear seats were cramped for long journeys, and the lack of a rear defroster was a minor inconvenience. Despite these limitations, the Tacoma's practicality and ease of use made it a popular choice for those seeking a smaller pickup.

The 2020 RAM 2500 provided a range of cab and bed options, including the luxurious Mega Cab with reclining rear seats. The Crew Cab offered ample space, and features like power running boards and a retractable tailgate step made access easier. The RAM 2500's bed could be equipped with a spray-in liner and LED lighting, and the rear air suspension allowed for easy trailer hitch adjustments. The truck's electrical system was robust, with options for dual alternators to support power-hungry equipment. These features made the RAM 2500 a versatile and capable workhorse.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma featured a simple and intuitive infotainment system, with a standard 7-inch touchscreen and an optional 8-inch version. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa were standard, along with a new USB-C port. The Tacoma's 360-degree cameras provided useful views for parking and off-road driving, and a suite of driver assists, including adaptive cruise control, was standard. While not the most advanced system, it was functional and easy to use.

The 2020 RAM 2500 offered a range of infotainment options, starting with a 5-inch touchscreen and upgrading to an 8.4-inch Uconnect system. The highlight was the optional 12-inch display, which provided a wealth of information and features. The system was intuitive and high-resolution, with customizable shortcuts and a split-screen layout. The RAM 2500's 360-degree cameras and dual rear-view cameras enhanced visibility, making it easier to maneuver and tow. The infotainment system was a standout feature, offering a level of functionality unmatched by competitors.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma came with a suite of standard safety features, including forward-emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane-departure warning. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors. The Tacoma received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with top ratings in most crash tests.

The 2020 RAM 2500 was not rated by the NHTSA or IIHS, but its sibling, the RAM 1500, received high safety ratings. Most driver assists were optional, including blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The RAM 2500's safety features were comprehensive, but the lack of standardization was a drawback.