Pickup trucks have come a long way from their utilitarian origins. Nowadays, they offer a blend of workhorse capability and luxurious features that can rival high-end vehicles. In this comparison, we take a closer look at two strong contenders in the full-size pickup segment: the 2023 RAM 1500 and the 2023 Toyota Tundra. The Toyota was revamped more recently than the RAM, but each option has its strengths (and its weakenesses).
2023 RAM 1500 vs 2023 Toyota Tundra: Full-Size Pickup Comparison
Look and Feel
CarGurus experts rated the 2023 RAM 1500 an impressive 8 out of 10 for look and feel, while the 2023 Toyota Tundra scored 7 points.
The RAM 1500 offers versatility, with options for a quad cab or a larger crew cab, available with various bed lengths. We tested the RAM 1500 Limited, positioned near the top of the truck's eight trim levels. What stood out here was the $4,145 Night Edition package, which bestows the truck with a sleek, blacked-out appearance for exterior accents including the grille, badges, headlamp bezels, mirror caps, and 22-inch aluminum wheels.
Inside the RAM 1500 Limited, you encounter a wealth of leather surfaces, complemented by contrasting stitching and open-pore wood with metallic trim. The 12-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen adds a unique touch to the interior, and chunky volume controls enhance functionality. The interior is further adorned with "RAM" and "Limited" logos, leaving no doubt about the truck you're driving.
Toyota's approach to the Tundra's design exudes power: The massive grille and prominent grille surround give it a rugged, commanding presence. From the grille surround to the taillights, the Tundra's design elements create a cohesive and solid aesthetic. Slim, high-mounted headlights and a character line down the side profile contribute to its visual appeal.
For 2023, Toyota introduces the SX Package for the SR5 trim level, featuring dark gray metallic 18-inch wheels, body-color trim pieces, and a blacked-out "4x4" badge on the tailgate. Inside, all Tundra trims boast spacious and comfortable seats, with the higher trims offering a massive 14-inch touchscreen on the dashboard. While the exterior may be polarizing, the interior is sure to win approval for its ample space and comfort.
Performance
Both the 2023 RAM 1500 and the 2023 Toyota Tundra earned 8 points out of 10 from CarGurus expert reviewers when it comes to performance.
The RAM 1500 offers a range of powertrain options to suit different needs. Lower trims come standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, equipped with Ram's eTorque 48-volt mild hybrid system. An optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with eTorque is available on lower trims and standard on upper trims. There's also a 3.0-liter diesel engine option, except for the top-tier TRX model, which boasts a supercharged 6.2-liter V8.
The RAM's eTorque system enhances fuel economy and provides extra torque for strong off-the-line performance. The V8 produces 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, making it robust for passing on the highway. The RAM 1500 boasts a smooth ride, thanks to its coilover rear suspension, and the available air suspension further enhances comfort. It offers confident stopping power with 14.9-inch brake rotors and responsive steering.
Shoppers with stuff to haul should know that the RAM 1500 can tow up to 12,750 pounds and can carry a payload of up to 2,300 pounds when properly configured. The available Trailer Tow package, priced at $1,095, includes features like Trailer Reverse Steering Control for easier towing.
If off-roading is your passion, the RAM 1500 Rebel and the extreme RAM 1500 TRX are your go-to choices. The latter, with its 6.2-liter supercharged V8, produces a staggering 702 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, delivering unmatched off-road capability.
Toyota introduced two new, more efficient powertrains to the Tundra lineup. The standard engine is a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6, producing 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, a hybrid variant of this engine, known as the i-FORCE MAX, offers a remarkable 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid engine comes standard on the TRD Pro and Capstone trims.
Both powertrains are mated to a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering consistent power without abrupt surges. Toyota even enhances the engine noise with the optional JBL sound system to mimic a V8, though it's not overpowering.
In terms of handling, the Tundra benefits from a multi-link rear suspension, providing a more composed ride over various terrains compared to its predecessor. Maximum towing capacity stands at 12,000 pounds, and the payload capacity has improved to 1,940 pounds, surpassing some competitors.
The TRD Pro trim is tailored for off-road enthusiasts, boasting a 1.1-inch lift, 2.5-inch Fox shocks, 18-inch BBS wheels, and 33-inch tires, ensuring a confident performance over challenging terrains. Toyota's multi-terrain system, locking rear differential, crawl control, and downhill assist control further enhance the off-road prowess of the Tundra TRD Pro.
Form and Function
The 2023 RAM 1500 and the 2023 Toyota Tundra scored evenly on form and function as well, each earning 7 points.
The RAM 1500 impresses with its thoughtful interior design. The cabin features numerous cubbies, making it convenient to store small items. Notably, the two-tiered center console adds versatility, allowing you to adjust the upper-level cupholders and storage bin, revealing a lower-level storage cubby. The center console is even spacious enough to accommodate a laptop, a purse, or other essentials.
Front seats are heated and cooled, with eight-way power adjustments for both the driver and front passenger. The rear seats can recline up to eight degrees, enhancing comfort on long journeys. The crew cab configuration ensures ample rear legroom, and the flat rear floor simplifies cargo loading. The multifunction tailgate offers flexibility, allowing it to open as a 60/40 split door or a traditional tailgate. The optional air suspension further lowers the tailgate for easier access.
One standout feature is the RamBox storage integrated into the rear quarter panel, providing lockable storage solutions for tools and valuables, at an additional cost of $995.
Technology
The 2023 Toyota Tundra is the clear winner on the technology front, earning 9 points to the RAM 1500's 7 from CarGurus experts.
The RAM 1500 receives a notable tech upgrade for 2023 with the introduction of a reconfigurable 12-inch gauge cluster. Unfortunately, this feature is not standard across all trim levels.
Lower-trim RAMs are equipped with a standard 5-inch infotainment screen, while mid-range models step up to an 8.4-inch touchscreen. The real star, however, is the available 12-inch portrait-oriented infotainment screen found in the upper-tier 1500 trucks. This large screen allows for the simultaneous use of multiple functions, such as displaying audio and navigation information side by side. It even supports Bluetooth connections for two phones at once.
The Uconnect infotainment system, though initially a bit overwhelming, proves to be well-organized once you get used to it. It incorporates both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, although some users have reported slight lag when interacting with CarPlay.
If you opt for the available Equipment Group 1 package, you'll enjoy additional tech features like a head-up display and a digital rearview mirror with a wide-angle lens, enhancing your rear visibility. Furthermore, a surround-view camera system aids in parking this substantial truck with confidence. The RAM 1500 Limited is tech-savvy with multiple USB ports, wireless charging, and various power outlets for all your devices.
Toyota has significantly upgraded the Tundra's technology, particularly in the infotainment department. The base trim Tundras come equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen, but the true standout feature is the available 14-inch touchscreen. This expansive display comes standard on higher trim levels and boasts a modern user interface with crisp graphics and lightning-fast response times—a massive leap forward from the previous Tundra's infotainment system.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all Tundra models, enhancing connectivity without the need for cables. The convenience of wireless phone charging, however, is exclusive to the Limited trim and above.
The Tundra offers a variety of audio systems, including a 12-speaker setup on the Limited trim, further elevating the listening experience. In addition to the impressive infotainment system, the 2023 Tundra equips a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel with high resolution and brightness, offering vital information to drivers with clarity.
Safety
Due to their construction, ride height, and other factors, it's not unusual for trucks to score lower than some other body styles when it comes to safety. For that reason, pickup truck safety ratings are most effective when compared to other trucks. CarGurus experts gave the 2023 Toyota Tundra the edge here with 7 points to the RAM 1500's 6.
In terms of standard advanced driver-assistance systems, the RAM 1500 falls short, as not even automatic emergency braking is standard across all trim levels. Features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning are all either optional or part of packages, requiring buyers to upgrade for comprehensive safety. However, if you do opt for blind-spot monitoring, it's worth noting that it can cover the entire length of any trailer you might be towing.
Despite the lack of standard driver aids, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives the 2023 Ram 1500 crew cab an impressive overall safety rating of five stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awards it with Good ratings across most categories, although it receives Marginal grades for seat belt reminders and LATCH system ease of use on some trims. Headlight performance also varies, with Good ratings for some higher-tier trims but Marginal ratings for others.
Toyota is renowned for its commitment to safety, and the 2023 Toyota Tundra is no exception. CarGurus experts rate its safety at 7 out of 10. While it may not have the latest Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) suite, the Tundra is equipped with the TSS 2.5 package, which includes a robust set of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
Standard safety features on the Tundra include automatic emergency braking, road-sign detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-tracing assist. A sway warning system is also included, which is especially useful for towing.
Additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available but not standard across all trim levels. Given the Tundra's substantial size, it would be advantageous to see these features included as standard.
The IIHS named the CrewMax model a Top Safety Pick+, highlighting its commitment to safety.
Cost-Effectiveness
CarGurus expert reviewers gave the 2023 RAM 1500 7 points out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The 2023 Toyota Tundra earned a near-perfect 9 out of 10.
The most fuel-efficient engine option for the 2023 RAM 1500 is the 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine. This engine delivers 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque while achieving impressive fuel economy figures of 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined.
However, if fuel-efficiency is not a concern and you opt for the high-performance TRX, be prepared for a significant drop in mileage with an abysmal 10 mpg city, 14 mpg highway, and 12 mpg combined. It's important to note that the TRX requires premium fuel, which can add to the overall cost of ownership.
Price-wise, the RAM 1500 starts with the budget-friendly Tradesman trim, which, when equipped with rear-wheel drive (RWD), the long bed, and quad cab, comes in at just under $40,000, including the destination fee. On the other end of the spectrum, the luxurious RAM 1500 Limited reaches an MSRP north of $75,000, and the high-performance TRX can surpass six figures with ease.
While the RAM 1500 Limited offers a comfortable and refined experience, it's worth considering that the competition has more modern trucks with advanced and practical tech features.
In terms of warranty, the RAM 1500 provides a standard five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty for gas engines, with the diesel engine receiving a more generous five-year/100,000-mile warranty. Both engines include five years or 100,000 miles of roadside assistance and a rust-through limited warranty.
Despite the Tundra's relatively high starting price of $36,965 for the base SR trim with a 6.5-foot bed, it's important to consider the remarkable value you receive, even at the entry level.
The Tundra's engineering improvements are evident, as every trim level benefits from a powerful engine, ensuring you don't compromise on performance. At the top end of the spectrum, the Capstone trim is positioned as Toyota's luxury truck, sporting a premium price tag starting at $75,245.
The TRD Pro trim, while not inexpensive at $68,520, fills a unique niche in the performance truck segment, offering a balance between performance and cost. It may not match the sheer speed of a RAM 1500 TRX, but it also doesn't come with an exorbitant price tag.
Toyota stands by its vehicles with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty, which is bolstered by a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. For hybrid enthusiasts, the hybrid hardware is covered for eight years/100,000 miles, and the battery is backed by a 10-year/150,000-mile warranty. Beyond warranties, Toyota provides ToyotaCare, offering factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles at no extra cost.
The 2023 Tundra excels in providing exceptional capability for the money, whether you opt for the base trim for budget-conscious utility or go all-in for a luxurious or off-road-ready experience.
Verdict
Overall, the 2023 Toyota Tundra scored better when reviewed by CarGurus experts. It earned an average of 8 points, while the 2023 RAM 1500 averaged 7.2.
Choose the 2023 RAM 1500 if:
- you value a smooth and comfortable ride paired with a refined interior.
- off-roading is a high priority-consider the extreme capabilities of the RAM 1500 TRX.
- you prefer a range of engine options, including a potent V8 and an efficient diesel, with multiple cab and bed configurations.
Search for a 2023 RAM 1500 on CarGurus
Choose the 2023 Toyota Tundra if:
- advanced technology and an impressive infotainment system are top priorities.
- safety is paramount, and you appreciate that the Tundra offers a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems.
- you're looking for exceptional value, considering the strong performance and competitive pricing across trim levels.
Search for a 2023 Toyota Tundra on CarGurus
In this head-to-head comparison, the 2023 Toyota Tundra emerges as the victor, offering advanced technology, robust safety features, and exceptional value, making it an appealing choice for those in the market for a full-size pickup truck.
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