2022 RAM 1500 vs 2023 Toyota Tacoma

The 2022 RAM 1500 showcased a distinctive design that combined contemporary styling with robust features. Available in both Quad Cab and Crew Cab styles, it offered flexibility depending on space and cargo needs, with either a standard 6-foot, 4-inch or a shorter 5-foot, 7-inch cargo box. Its interior exuded luxury, especially in the Limited trim, which featured quilted leather upholstery and high-quality materials, making it a standout for high-end comfort in its class. In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma maintained a more traditional midsize truck stance that was both assertive and functional without appearing oversized. Its design was more utilitarian compared to the RAM 1500, emphasizing practicality and ruggedness which was apparent in the TRD Pro trim with its off-road enhancements and assertive exterior styling, including the distinctive "TOYOTA" grille and bright orange paintwork in our test model.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered a range of engines, including a standard 3.6-liter V6 with eTorque, a 5.7-liter V8, and a turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel V6. The latter, generating 260 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque, provided substantial towing capacity up to 12,560 pounds and excellent fuel efficiency, averaging 24.8 mpg. Its ride quality was superior thanks to the air suspension system that delivered smooth cruising across varying landscapes. Meanwhile, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma was equipped with a less powerful standard 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, and a preferable 3.5-liter V6 that offered 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. The TRD Pro version with this V6 handled off-road terrains efficiently but struggled with on-road dynamics and noise. Fuel efficiency was notably lower, especially in the V6 with 4WD, achieving a less impressive 16.3 mpg.

Interior space in the 2022 RAM 1500 was generous and functional. The Crew Cab variant provided ample room, luxury appointments, and versatile storage solutions including Ram Bins and a multifunction tailgate that enhanced the usability of the cargo space. Its interior amenities, particularly in the Limited trim, included heated and ventilated seats and an optional RamBox for added practicality. Conversely, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma presented limitations in interior space, particularly with the access cab that offered cramped rear seating. The double cab offered better space but still lacked in comparison to the RAM 1500. Practicality in cargo came through with different bed length options, though the Tacoma’s overall capacity and functionality fell short when matched against the RAM’s offerings.

Technology in the 2022 RAM 1500 featured the new Uconnect 5 system, which was a significant upgrade, providing a more intuitive interface and higher responsiveness. Equipped with a large 12-inch touchscreen, connectivity options, and advanced trailering technology, it set a high bar for pickup truck tech features. The technology in the 2023 Toyota Tacoma, although satisfactory, didn't come close to the RAM 1500’s offerings. The Tacoma’s system felt outdated, even though it included standard features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an optional premium audio system. The interface and technology were functional but lacked the modernity and comprehensive options of the RAM.

In terms of safety, the 2022 RAM 1500 was equipped with extensive assistive features, achieving top ratings from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Its array of safety technologies included everything from advanced trailering assistance to adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The 2023 Toyota Tacoma also included standard safety features through Toyota Safety Sense but lagged slightly behind in the more advanced driver aids, which reflected in its safety ratings with four stars overall from the NHTSA and non-qualification for the IIHS Top Safety Pick.