2023 Toyota Tacoma vs 2023 RAM 1500

The 2023 RAM 1500 showcased a robust and luxurious design, particularly evident in the Limited trim with the Night Edition package. It featured a stealthy aesthetic with a blacked-out grille, black badging, and 22-inch black aluminum wheels, giving it a striking appearance less reliant on chrome accents. The interior boasted high-quality materials such as embossed leather with contrasting stitching and open-pore wood on the dash, creating an upscale feel. The large 12-inch screen and detailed trims enhanced the opulent environment of the cabin.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma maintained a rugged and assertive look, particularly in the TRD Pro trim, which we tested. Its bold Solar Octane paint and a distinct grille with large 'TOYOTA' lettering maintained an adventurous vibe. Inside, the Tacoma ranged from basic to nicely outfitted, with the TRD Pro featuring Softex leather-trimmed upholstery and heated front seats, catering towards a more utilitarian yet comfortable user experience. Its smaller size compared to full-sized competitors, including the RAM, appealed to those seeking a substantial but more agile vehicle.

Both trucks offered a variety of powertrain options, tailored to different needs. The RAM 1500’s performance capabilities were highlighted by its 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine with the eTorque system, producing 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, which excelled in providing a strong and smooth driving experience. This setup, along with the optional air suspension, delivered a superior ride quality, capable of smoothing out imperfections on almost any surface. With a towing capacity of up to 12,750 pounds, the RAM stood out as a powerful hauler suited for heavy-duty tasks.

The Toyota Tacoma, powered by a 3.5-liter V6 producing 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, offered adequate power but didn’t match the RAM’s performance. The Tacoma’s TRD Pro trim, while not as quick on pavement, was exceptionally capable off-road with features like Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control, making it ideal for adventurous terrains rather than urban haulage.

Interior space and functionality of both trucks catered to different audiences. The RAM 1500 outshined with its spacious crew cab, offering generous legroom and an array of storage solutions including the multifunctional tailgate and the RamBox cargo management system. It was well-suited for passengers and cargo alike, making it a versatile choice for families and professionals.

The Tacoma, though offering various cab and bed configurations, was more confined, especially in the rear seating of the access cab. The double cab configuration did provide better legroom but maintained a more compact environment compared to the RAM. It suited consumers looking for a smaller, more manageable truck for daily use and light hauling tasks.

Technology in the RAM 1500 was more advanced, featuring a large 12-inch infotainment screen capable of displaying multiple functions simultaneously and a newly available reconfigurable gauge cluster. This higher level of technology provided a more refined and user-friendly interface.

In comparison, the Toyota Tacoma offered a functional setup with a 7-inch or available 8-inch touchscreen, providing basic connectivity features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but lacked the more sophisticated offerings found in the RAM.