2022 RAM 1500 vs 2022 GMC Canyon

2022 RAM 1500
2022 RAM 1500
$29,650MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 GMC Canyon
2022 GMC Canyon
$26,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 RAM 1500
$29,650MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 GMC Canyon
$26,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 RAM 1500 was 7.7 out of 10, while the 2022 GMC Canyon scored 6.3 out of 10. Given these ratings, CarGurus recommends the 2022 RAM 1500. It outshines the Canyon in terms of overall performance, luxury, technology, and advanced safety features, making it the better choice for those seeking a versatile and high-quality full-size truck. The Ram 1500’s extensive range of configurations and luxurious interiors offer a premium experience that justifies its higher rating.

Overview

MSRP

$29,650

MSRP

$26,800

Average price

$38,821

Average price

$33,275

Listings

6195

Listings

611
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

6.3 out of 10
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Spacious interior
  • Great ride quality
Cons
  • Expensive diesel engine option
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Sensitive rear automatic braking system
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Easy-to-use technology
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Poor value for money

2022 RAM 1500 Reviews Summary

In 2021, the Ram pickup line overtook the Chevrolet Silverado as the second-best-selling truck in America. That’s the headline. The nuance is that sales figures include the previous-generation version, now sold as the Ram 1500 Classic, which remains in production four years after its should have died. Also, General Motors suffered significant production disruptions due to the ongoing chip shortage. Nevertheless, and especially in light of the redesigned Toyota Tundra arriving in the market, we thought it would be good to revisit the most popular of the Ram trucks, the 2022 Ram 1500.

2022 GMC Canyon Reviews Summary

Compared to full-size models, midsize pickups offer buyers the convenience of a truck at a more budget-friendly price. Sure, you sacrifice a bit in the way of interior space and capability, but for many buyers, the smaller footprint and increased efficiency make these midsize offerings more livable.

The GMC Canyon—corporate cousin to the Chevrolet Colorado but with a more premium look and feel—gets a couple of changes for 2022. A new Denali Black Edition equipment package joins the options list, and the High Elevation package has been renamed Elevation Premium.

The 2022 GMC Canyon is available in four trim levels: Elevation Standard, Elevation, AT4, and Denali. We drove the off-road-focused AT4 model for this review.

No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

3.6L 305 hp V6

Engine

2.5L 200 hp I4

Drive Train

4X2

Drive Train

4X2

Seating Capacity

3

Seating Capacity

4

Horsepower

305 hp @ 6400 rpm

Horsepower

200 hp @ 6300 rpm

MPG City

17

MPG City

19

MPG Highway

25

MPG Highway

25
2022 RAM 1500
2022 RAM 1500
$29,650MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 GMC Canyon
2022 GMC Canyon
$26,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 RAM 1500
$29,650MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 GMC Canyon
$26,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 RAM 1500 was 7.7 out of 10, while the 2022 GMC Canyon scored 6.3 out of 10. Given these ratings, CarGurus recommends the 2022 RAM 1500. It outshines the Canyon in terms of overall performance, luxury, technology, and advanced safety features, making it the better choice for those seeking a versatile and high-quality full-size truck. The Ram 1500’s extensive range of configurations and luxurious interiors offer a premium experience that justifies its higher rating.

Overview
MSRP
$29,650
$26,800
Average price
$38,821
$33,275
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.6
4.1
Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Read full review

6.3 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Spacious interior
  • Great ride quality
Cons
  • Expensive diesel engine option
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Sensitive rear automatic braking system
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Easy-to-use technology
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Poor value for money
Summary
In 2021, the Ram pickup line overtook the Chevrolet Silverado as the second-best-selling truck in America. That’s the headline. The nuance is that sales figures include the previous-generation version, now sold as the Ram 1500 Classic, which remains in production four years after its should have died. Also, General Motors suffered significant production disruptions due to the ongoing chip shortage. Nevertheless, and especially in light of the redesigned Toyota Tundra arriving in the market, we thought it would be good to revisit the most popular of the Ram trucks, the 2022 Ram 1500.

Compared to full-size models, midsize pickups offer buyers the convenience of a truck at a more budget-friendly price. Sure, you sacrifice a bit in the way of interior space and capability, but for many buyers, the smaller footprint and increased efficiency make these midsize offerings more livable.

The GMC Canyon—corporate cousin to the Chevrolet Colorado but with a more premium look and feel—gets a couple of changes for 2022. A new Denali Black Edition equipment package joins the options list, and the High Elevation package has been renamed Elevation Premium.

The 2022 GMC Canyon is available in four trim levels: Elevation Standard, Elevation, AT4, and Denali. We drove the off-road-focused AT4 model for this review.

Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
3.6L 305 hp V6
2.5L 200 hp I4
Drive Train
4X2
4X2
Seating Capacity
3
4
Horsepower
305 hp @ 6400 rpm
200 hp @ 6300 rpm
MPG City
17
19
MPG Highway
25
25
Look and feel
2022 RAM 1500
10/10
2022 GMC Canyon
7/10

The 2022 Ram 1500, available in both Quad Cab and Crew Cab styles, offered a versatile range of configurations, including a standard 6-foot, 4-inch cargo box and a shorter 5-foot, 7-inch box for Crew Cabs. The model was presented in seven trim levels, beginning with the basic Tradesman and stretching up to the high-performance TRX. An array of appearance packages, option bundles, and special editions enabled further customization of the truck’s styling and equipment.

For 2022, all Ram 1500s had a standard Clean Air System that filtered 95 percent of particulates from the interior air. The Big Horn trim and above showcased the next-generation Uconnect 5 infotainment system with an 8.4-inch or 12-inch touchscreen display. The Trailer Tow Group included a new Trailer Hitch Light feature for enhanced nighttime visibility. Several special editions also debuted.

Our Ram 1500 Crew Cab test truck arrived in Limited trim, featuring a turbodiesel engine, four-wheel drive, and an electronic locking rear axle with a 3.92 axle ratio. It was equipped with the Limited Level 1 Group, Technology Group, and Trailer Tow Group, among other features. A Limited 10th Anniversary Edition package added special leather upholstery, a 19-speaker premium sound system, and a multi-function tailgate.

The 2022 Ram 1500 was distinguished among full-size trucks for its compelling design, maintaining vestiges of the "big rig" styling from the 1990s, yet projecting a clean and contemporary look. The Limited model's chrome elements blended naturally with the overall design, avoiding the tacked-on feeling often seen in rivals.

Inside, the Ram 1500 Limited exuded luxury with mixed materials, exposed stitching, and various patterns that still maintained a high-quality feel. The Indigo and Sea Salt two-tone color scheme, combined with superior materials and construction quality, made the cabin both visually striking and pleasant to inhabit.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Canyon, dating back to its 2015 introduction, boasted a premium look, particularly in the Denali trim. The Denali featured a unique chrome grille, 20-inch alloy wheels, and chrome assist steps. Its interior showcased a luxurious array of features, including perforated leather seats, Ash wood trim, and a Bose audio system.

Even the more rugged AT4 version offered premium touches like a black chrome grille, LED lighting, and premium leather seats with Kalahari accents. The look was bold and capable, bridging ruggedness and luxury.

The base Elevation and Elevation Standard trims of the Canyon provided more typical materials, but overall, the Canyon's material quality surpassed expectations for its class.

Performance
2022 RAM 1500
9/10
2022 GMC Canyon
8/10

The Ram 1500 offered several engines, starting with a 3.6-liter V6 featuring a mild-hybrid system called eTorque aimed at enhancing performance and fuel economy. For those seeking more power and a traditional exhaust note, a 5.7-liter V8 was available with or without eTorque. The Ram TRX performance truck housed a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine derived from the Hellcat muscle cars.

Our test truck was equipped with the EcoDiesel engine, an optional 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V6, generating 260 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, this engine could tow up to 12,560 pounds, depending on the configuration. Our truck’s specific configuration allowed for a 9,600-pound tow capacity and a 1,780-pound payload.

The EcoDiesel engine was more expensive, but offered a fuel economy of 24 mpg in combined driving, with our test route averaging 24.8 mpg. While price could be a concern, the engine's torque and efficiency were compelling attributes.

The Ram’s ride quality, enhanced by a coil-spring rear suspension and optional air suspension, was unmatched, providing an SUV-like comportment. The interior was quiet, the handling commendable, and despite its size, the Ram navigated various terrains with ease.

Conversely, the GMC Canyon provided three powertrain options: a 200-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 308-hp 3.6-liter V6, and a 181-hp 2.8-liter diesel engine with 369 pound-feet of torque. The V6, paired with an eight-speed automatic, highlighted our test vehicle—a 2022 GMC Canyon AT4 4WD.

The V6 engine provided abundant power, and the eight-speed automatic shifted smoothly. The 2.8-liter diesel engine, available on other configurations, offered robust towing and fuel economy attributes.

The AT4's 31-inch off-road tires made highway driving slightly noisy but didn't compromise grip. The Canyon felt stable and capable across various driving conditions. The AT4’s off-road capabilities were further bolstered by a myriad of standard off-road features.

Form and function
2022 RAM 1500
9/10
2022 GMC Canyon
8/10

In considering the 2022 Ram 1500, the test vehicle came with some notable features. The power-deploying running boards, which could be toggled via the Uconnect system, were particularly useful when running the truck at its middle height air suspension setting. The Limited trim offered supreme comfort with heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, ample space, and practical storage solutions like the center console’s trays and bins. The Ram Bins underneath the rear floor provided concealed storage, while the multi-function tailgate facilitated ease of loading and unloading.

The Ram 1500’s practical features extended to the optional RamBox storage bins on either side of the bed, though our test model did not include them.

The GMC Canyon offered an extended cab with a 6'2" bed, or a crew cab with either a 5'2" or 6'2" bed. The crew cab was roomy, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. Accessing the vehicle was easy due to the midsize truck’s lower seat height. The Canyon's seats, particularly in our AT4 test model, were well-cushioned, with power adjustments and heat available for the front occupants.

The Canyon’s cargo bed, with two-tier loading and 13 tie-down points, provided functional convenience for carrying gear. In addition, the integrated corner step in the rear bumper facilitated bed access, enhancing the truck’s practical appeal.

Technology
2022 RAM 1500
7/10
2022 GMC Canyon
5/10

Ram introduced the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system for 2022, standard on Big Horn trims and higher, offering faster response and a wider range of features. Display options included an 8.4-inch screen or a larger 12-inch screen. Our test vehicle featured the 12-inch display, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa Built-in, satellite radio, WiFi access, and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. While Uconnect 5 generally performed well, occasional system bugs and complexity in navigation posed challenges.

Tech options in the Ram 1500 also included a head-up display, digital rearview camera mirror, and surround-view camera system with trailer-specific functionalities.

In comparison, the 2022 GMC Canyon provided essential tech features, with the Elevation Standard coming standard with a 7-inch touchscreen. Elevation trim and higher featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The AT4 trim included a wireless charging pad, and the Denali added a high-definition rearview camera and more extensive driver-assist features.

The Canyon's infotainment system, equipped with navigation in our AT4 test model, was intuitive and paired easily with smartphones. The Bose premium audio system delivered excellent sound quality.

Safety
2022 RAM 1500
6/10
2022 GMC Canyon
4/10

Ram 1500 safety features varied by trim. Lower trims, like the Tradesman and Big Horn, offered lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring with trailer coverage, and rear cross-traffic alert. Advanced safety features on higher trims included automatic high beam headlights, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

Our test truck came with rear parking sensors, a rear automatic braking system, and LaneSense lane-keep assist. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Ram 1500 a five-star overall rating, though the model received four stars for frontal-impact protection, indicating room for improvement.

In comparison, the GMC Canyon’s Elevation Standard trim lacked advanced driver aids but included useful features like tire-fill alert and Teen Driver system. Higher trims, like Elevation and AT4, offered a Driver Alert package with forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning. However, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring were notably absent.

The Canyon earned four out of five stars for overall crash protection from NHTSA, with the best ratings for side impact but less favorable ratings for rollover resistance. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Canyon 'Good' ratings in most categories, though it received 'Poor' and 'Marginal' ratings in certain areas.

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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.