RAM 1500 Laramie Longhorn vs Ford F-150 King Ranch

In 2019, the RAM 1500 underwent a profound transformation in design that struck a balance between bold and manageable dimensions. It abandoned the iconic crosshair grille, allowing for a fresher and distinct identity away from the Dodge lineage. Each trim, such as Tradesman and Big Horn, up to the luxurious Limited, displayed unique grille designs and headlight styles, reflecting a hierarchical yet diverse aesthetic approach. Inside, the cabin featured advanced ergonomics with a variety of tactile and visual materials, advancing its upscale ambience, particularly in the higher trims like Laramie and Limited which boasted premium leather and sophisticated wood accents.

The 2020 Ford F-150, on the other hand, showcased an evolutionary design that prioritized subtlety and functionality, resisting the temptation to embrace ephemeral design trends. Its unassuming yet sturdy exterior exuded a timeless appeal, suggesting reliability and durability. The interior design of the F-150 was robust, with higher trims slightly enhancing material quality, but generally, the focus was on durability over luxury, a stark contrast to the lavish interior of the RAM 1500.

In terms of performance, the 2019 RAM 1500 impressed with its refined engine options. The base model's 3.6-liter V6 and the available 5.7-liter eTorque V8 provided both power and efficiency, with the latter offering an impressive towing capability of up to 12,750 pounds when properly equipped. The eTorque system enhanced the truck’s torque supply, making it highly capable for heavy-duty tasks. The driving experience was noted for its smoothness over rough terrains, coupled with a responsive steering and braking system that instilled driving confidence.

The 2020 Ford F-150 presented a diversely powered lineup starting from a basic 3.3-liter V6 to the powerful 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, each designed to meet various performance needs, from daily driving to heavy towing responsibilities which peaked at a slightly lower 12,300 pounds. The inclusion of a 10-speed automatic transmission across most of the lineup helped optimize fuel consumption and performance dynamics. The Raptor variant stood out with its off-road prowess, equipped with specialized shocks and management systems for various terrains.

Utility-wise, both trucks offered innovative solutions but with divergent focuses. The 2019 RAM 1500 excelled internally with clever storage solutions like the Ram Bins and a multifunctional tailgate offered in higher trims. The interior was not only roomy but also flexible, with rear seats that reclined for passenger comfort — a rare feature in pickups.

In comparison, the 2020 Ford F-150 leveraged its practicality through a range of bed sizes and the versatility of its cabin configurations, particularly the spacious SuperCrew. Moreover, Ford’s integrated bed step was a notable feature that, although less sophisticated than GM’s multifunction tailgate, provided functional bed access.

Technology in both models catered extensively to modern demands. The 2019 RAM 1500 might have set the bar higher with its available 12-inch touchscreen, offering a vast, customizable interface that stood out in the segment. The system was intuitive, blending physical controls with touchscreen functions for ease of use.

Conversely, the 2020 Ford F-150’s technology, starting with the basic SYNC system on lower trims, was more than adequate for most needs, with the SYNC 3 system in higher trims providing smooth operation and integration with smart devices. Both trucks offered substantial technological provisions that catered well to both traditional truck uses and contemporary connectivity needs.

The RAM 1500 and Ford F-150 were well-equipped with safety features, reflecting high standards. The RAM boasted advanced options like blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera available on higher trims, while the Ford included the Pro Trailer Backup Assist which significantly eased the task of towing.

The 2020 F-150, however, had a slight edge in safety ratings, particularly in the SuperCrew configuration, which had received commendable scores from both NHTSA and IIHS.