2022 RAM 1500 vs 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2022 RAM 1500 and 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 presented distinct visual styles that appealed to different tastes in the truck market. The 2022 RAM 1500, available in Quad Cab and Crew Cab configurations, offered a versatile range of options with up to seven trim levels, from the basic Tradesman to the performance-focused TRX. The introduction of a standard Clean Air System claimed to filter 95 percent of particulates from the truck's interior air. Starting from the Big Horn trim, the RAM was equipped with the upgraded Uconnect 5 infotainment system, further elevating its appeal through packages like the Trailer Tow Group, which added features such as Trailer Hitch Light for better nighttime visibility.

The RAM 1500 Limited trim, which underwent evaluation, featured a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel engine and a price tag nearing $77,260. Despite its hefty price, the truck exuded luxury with quilted leather upholstery, ventilated rear seats, and a high-end sound system. The exterior design of the RAM 1500 stayed true to its "big rig" roots, yet maintained a contemporary and refined look, avoiding the flashy, over-the-top appearance common in other trucks. Inside, the Limited model's cabin, with its blend of materials and patterns, radiated quality, making it tough to spot the more basic plastic beneath the upscale finishes.

Comparatively, the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500's exterior design had a more polarizing reception. Some elements, such as the small headlights intersected by pieces of the body panel, felt awkward and aggressive. However, it reflected the bold and rugged aesthetic found in Chevrolet’s design language. Various appearance packages such as the Rally Edition, Midnight Edition, and Redline Edition allowed buyers to personalize their trucks further.

Inside the Silverado, the layout was user-friendly, prioritizing functionality. Different trim levels, including the WT (Work Truck), Custom, Custom Trail Boss, LT, RST, LT Trail Boss, LTZ, High Country, and ZR2, offered varying degrees of luxury and tech. The WT and Custom trims retained older interiors, while higher trims featured a modern dash with a sizable touchscreen infotainment system. Overall, the Silverado’s interior was less flashy but extremely practical. The broad range of trims also ensured that potential buyers could tailor the truck to their specific needs, whether they wanted a straightforward workhorse or a luxury-infused daily driver.

The RAM's ride quality was exceptional due to its coil-spring rear suspension and optional air suspension. This setup provided a comfortable, smooth ride, likened to a luxurious sedan's "magic carpet" feel. Road noise was minimal, and the cabin remained quiet even in heavy traffic. However, the truck felt cumbersome in tight spaces like narrow lanes and mountain roads. The handling was solid overall, but the brake pedal could be challenging to modulate, particularly in heavy traffic.

The Silverado 1500 offered an array of powertrains beginning with a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine producing 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, a 5.3-liter V8 and a 6.2-liter V8 were available, generating 355 and 420 horsepower respectively. There was also a six-cylinder Duramax turbodiesel engine making 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque. Towing capacities varied, with the 6.2-liter V8 able to tow up to 13,300 pounds, while the base four-cylinder engine could haul up to 2,260 pounds in payload.

Our test truck, equipped with the turbo-four engine, showed respectable power and a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. The truck handled well for its size, although not as smoothly as the RAM 1500. Off-roading capabilities were highlighted in the Trail Boss trim, which featured 4WD, a two-speed transfer case, skid plates, and upgraded shock absorbers. Despite a slightly rougher ride compared to the RAM, the Silverado excelled in off-road conditions, making it a robust choice for rugged terrains.

In terms of form and function, the RAM 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered plenty of practical features and space. The RAM's interior was highlighted by practical storage solutions, including the versatile center console and rear armrest trays and bins. The rear seats were spacious and could recline slightly for added comfort. Power deploying running boards aided ingress and egress, especially when the air suspension was set to its middle height setting. The multi-function tailgate was another standout feature, capable of supporting up to 2,000 pounds or allowing easier access to the bed via its split-opening design. Optional RamBox storage bins added more utility, although our test vehicle didn’t include them.

The Silverado 1500 came in multiple body styles: regular cab with standard or long bed, double cab with a standard bed, and crew cab available with a short or standard bed. The regular cab was ideal for work settings with a front bench seat accommodating up to three passengers. The extended double cab had conventional doors for easier access and ample rear headroom but limited legroom. The crew cab was extremely spacious, offering generous head and legroom in both rows. The rear bench seat folded up to provide expansive in-cabin cargo space, ideal for storing valuable items safely.

When comparing towing and payload capacities, the Silverado stood out with a maximum towing capacity of 13,300 pounds and a higher payload capacity of 2,260 pounds for the base engine. The RAM 1500's EcoDiesel engine offered competitive towing at 12,560 pounds but fell short in payload capacity at 1,780 pounds.