2022 RAM 1500 vs 2023 RAM 1500

The 2022 RAM 1500 was available in both Quad Cab and Crew Cab styles, offering a standard 6-foot, 4-inch cargo box, with a 5-foot, 7-inch box option for Crew Cab models. Canadian buyers could choose from eight trim levels, ranging from the basic Tradesman to the high-performance TRX. The model introduced the next-generation Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which was optional on lower trims and standard on higher ones, featuring an 8.4-inch or 12-inch touchscreen display. The 2022 model also debuted several new special editions and a Trailer Hitch Light feature as part of the Trailer Tow Group. The Limited trim test truck came with a turbodiesel engine, 4WD, and a host of luxury features, including a Limited 10th Anniversary Edition package with premium leather upholstery and a 19-speaker sound system. The truck's design was praised for its clean and contemporary look, with a luxurious interior that exuded quality.

The 2023 RAM 1500 continued to offer the full-size pickup in Quad Cab and Crew Cab configurations, with a 6-foot, 4-inch bed standard and a 5-foot, 7-inch bed available for Crew Cab models. The Limited trim, near the top of the eight available trims, featured a $3,895 Night Edition package for a stealthier look, including 22-inch black aluminum wheels. Inside, the Limited trim boasted leather upholstery with contrasting stitching, open-pore wood on the dash, and a 12-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. The interior was designed for luxury, with heated and cooled front seats, power-adjustable pedals, and a spacious rear seat with ample legroom. The multifunction tailgate and RamBox storage bins added practicality, while the overall design maintained a balance of style and functionality.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered a range of engines, including a standard 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 with a mild-hybrid eTorque system, and an optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8 with or without eTorque. The TRX model featured a supercharged 6.2-litre V8. The test truck was equipped with the EcoDiesel engine, a 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel V6 producing 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine provided a towing capacity of up to 5,697 kilograms and a payload capacity of 807 kg. The truck's fuel economy was impressive, averaging 9.5 L/100 km. The ride quality was exceptional, thanks to the coil-spring rear suspension and optional air suspension, offering a smooth and quiet driving experience. However, the brake pedal's delayed action was a minor drawback.

The 2023 RAM 1500 also offered a variety of engine options, including the standard 3.6-litre V6 with eTorque, a 5.7-litre Hemi V8 with or without eTorque, and the EcoDiesel engine. The TRX model featured a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 with 702 horsepower. The test truck had the V8 with eTorque, producing 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. The 8-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifts, and the truck's fuel economy was rated at 13.0 L/100 km. The coilover rear suspension and optional air suspension delivered a comfortable ride, while the 14.9-inch brake rotors offered confident stopping power. The truck's towing capacity reached up to 5,783 kilograms, with a payload capacity of 1,043 kg. The Trailer Tow package added useful features like Trailer Reverse Steering Control.

The 2022 RAM 1500 featured power-deploying running boards, which could be turned on or off through the Uconnect 5 system. The Limited trim offered heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and ample interior space. The centre console provided practical storage, and the rear seats could be flipped up for additional cargo space. The multifunction tailgate supported up to 900 kilograms and could open in various ways for convenience. RamBox storage bins were available but not included in the test vehicle.

The 2023 RAM 1500 boasted numerous storage options, including a two-tiered centre console and a spacious cabin. The front seats were heated and cooled, with power-adjustable pedals standard on the Limited trim. The rear seats reclined up to eight degrees, and the crew cab offered generous legroom. The multifunction tailgate could open like a 60/40 split door or a traditional tailgate, with the air suspension lowering the tailgate height to 83.3 cm. The RamBox storage bins provided secure storage for tools and other items.

The 2022 RAM 1500 introduced the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster loading times and improved features. The test vehicle had a 12-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. The system's complexity posed some user challenges, and the voice recognition required specific language. Additional tech options included a head-up display, digital rearview camera mirror, and a surround-view camera system.

The 2023 RAM 1500 featured a new reconfigurable 12-inch gauge cluster, though it was not included in the test vehicle. The 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system allowed for dual-function display and Bluetooth connectivity for two phones. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with some lag noted in the former. The Equipment Group 1 package added a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and surround-view camera system. The truck offered multiple USB outlets, a wireless charging pad, and additional power outlets for device charging.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered driver-assist features starting from the Big Horn trim, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added features like automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The test truck had rear parking sensors and a rear automatic braking system, which proved incompatible with some driveways. The LaneSense lane-keep assist system was turned off due to its insistent corrections. The truck received a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.

The 2023 RAM 1500 lacked standard advanced driver-assist systems, with features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control available as options. The blind-spot monitoring system could cover the length of a trailer. Despite the lack of standard features, the truck received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and Good marks from IIHS, with some Marginal grades for seat belt reminders and LATCH ease of use.