Dodge Ram 1500 vs. Toyota Tundra: A Detailed Comparison

When it comes to choosing a full-size pickup truck, the Dodge Ram 1500 and Toyota Tundra are two of the most popular options on the market. Both vehicles have earned reputations for reliability, performance, and versatility, making them favorites among truck enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. In this detailed comparison, we'll explore various aspects of these two trucks, including performance, gas mileage, price, long-term value, servicing, and more.

Performance and Engine Options

Dodge Ram 1500

The Dodge Ram 1500 offers a range of powerful engines designed to meet different needs:

• 3.6L V6 Engine: Produces 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque.
• 5.7L V8 HEMI Engine: Delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque.
• 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 Engine: Generates 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, emphasizing fuel efficiency.

The Ram 1500 is known for its smooth ride, thanks to the available air suspension system, which provides adjustable ride height and enhances comfort on various terrains. The truck's towing capacity reaches up to 12,750 pounds, making it a formidable choice for heavy-duty tasks.

Toyota Tundra

The Toyota Tundra has recently introduced new 6-cylinder engine options alongside its traditional V8 engines to provide more versatility and fuel efficiency:

• 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 Engine: Produces 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque.
• 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid Engine: Delivers a combined 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, combining performance with improved fuel economy.

The 6-cylinder engines offer a significant upgrade in terms of both power and efficiency. The Tundra's towing capacity with the new 6-cylinder engines reaches up to 12,000 pounds, which brings it closer to the Ram 1500's towing capabilities.

Gas Mileage

Dodge Ram 1500

• 3.6L V6 Engine: Approximately 20 mpg city / 25 mpg highway.
• 5.7L V8 Engine: Around 15 mpg city / 22 mpg highway.
• 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 Engine: Estimated 22 mpg city / 32 mpg highway.

The EcoDiesel engine is a standout for those prioritizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing power.

Toyota Tundra

• 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 Engine: Approximately 18 mpg city / 23 mpg highway.
• 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid Engine: Estimated 20 mpg city / 24 mpg highway.
• 4.6L V8 Engine: Roughly 14 mpg city / 18 mpg highway.
• 5.7L V8 Engine: About 13 mpg city / 17 mpg highway.

The new 6-cylinder options provide a better balance of power and fuel efficiency compared to the older V8 engines, making the Tundra a more competitive choice in this regard.

Price

Dodge Ram 1500

The starting price for the Dodge Ram 1500 is around $32,000 for the base model. Depending on the trim level and options, prices can exceed $60,000 for fully loaded versions.

Toyota Tundra

The Toyota Tundra's base model starts at approximately $38,000, with higher trims and packages pushing the price well above $60,000 for fully equipped models, especially with the new hybrid engine option.

Long-Term Value and Reliability

Dodge Ram 1500

The Ram 1500 is often praised for its long-term reliability and lower cost of ownership. The EcoDiesel engine, in particular, is known for its durability and fuel efficiency. However, the Ram 1500's resale value tends to depreciate slightly faster than the Tundra.

Toyota Tundra

Toyota vehicles are renowned for their long-term reliability, and the Tundra is no exception. The Tundra has a higher resale value compared to many of its competitors, including the Ram 1500. Its build quality and reputation for longevity make it a favorite among those looking for a dependable workhorse.

Servicing and Maintenance

Dodge Ram 1500

Dodge offers a range of maintenance plans and warranties for the Ram 1500. Standard warranties include a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Ram’s extensive dealer network ensures easy access to service and repairs.

Toyota Tundra

Toyota provides excellent service and maintenance options for the Tundra. It comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Toyota Care, which includes complimentary maintenance for the first 2 years or 25,000 miles, adds significant value.

Interior and Technology

Dodge Ram 1500

The Ram 1500 boasts a luxurious interior, especially in higher trims. Key features include:

• Uconnect Infotainment System: Available with a 12-inch touchscreen.
• Premium Materials: Leather seats, real wood, and metal accents.
• Advanced Safety Features: Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

Toyota Tundra

The Tundra's interior is practical and spacious but less luxurious than the Ram 1500. Notable features include:

• Entune Infotainment System: Standard with a 7-inch touchscreen.
• Durable Materials: Emphasis on long-lasting, easy-to-clean surfaces.
• Safety Features: Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) with pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control.

Off-Road Capabilities

Dodge Ram 1500

The Ram 1500 offers several off-road packages, including the Rebel trim, which features:

• Off-Road Suspension: Enhanced ground clearance and off-road performance.
• Skid Plates: Protection for the undercarriage.
• All-Terrain Tires: Improved traction on rough terrain.

Toyota Tundra

The Tundra excels in off-road performance, especially with the TRD Pro package:

• TRD Suspension: Fox shocks and upgraded springs for rugged terrain.
• Skid Plates and Tow Hooks: Added durability and recovery options.
• All-Terrain Tires: Superior grip and stability off-road.

Conclusion

Both the Dodge Ram 1500 and Toyota Tundra offer compelling features and capabilities for full-size pickup truck buyers. The Ram 1500 stands out with its luxurious interior, superior fuel economy, and advanced technology, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort and efficiency. On the other hand, the Toyota Tundra's reputation for reliability, higher resale value, and robust off-road capabilities make it a dependable workhorse ideal for tough tasks and adventurous off-road excursions.

Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize luxury and fuel efficiency or reliability and off-road prowess, both the Ram 1500 and Tundra are top contenders in their class.

For more information on vehicle comparisons and other automotive insights, visit our Learning Center.

FAQs

1. Which truck is better for towing, the Ram 1500 or the Tundra?

• The Dodge Ram 1500 has a higher towing capacity, maxing out at 12,750 pounds, compared to the Tundra's 12,000 pounds with its new 6-cylinder engines.

2. What are the main differences in fuel economy between the Ram 1500 and Tundra?

• The Ram 1500 offers better fuel economy, especially with the EcoDiesel engine, which can achieve up to 32 mpg highway. The new Tundra's 6-cylinder engines provide better fuel efficiency than its older V8s, with the hybrid option achieving around 24 mpg highway.

3. Which truck has better resale value?

• The Toyota Tundra generally has a better resale value due to its long-standing reputation for reliability and durability.

4. Are there significant differences in interior quality between the two trucks?

• Yes, the Ram 1500 is known for its more luxurious and comfortable interior, especially in higher trims, while the Tundra focuses on durability and practicality.

5. What off-road capabilities do these trucks offer?

• Both trucks offer strong off-road capabilities, with the Ram 1500 Rebel and Tundra TRD Pro providing specialized features like enhanced suspension, skid plates, and all-terrain tires.

6. How do the new 6-cylinder engines in the Tundra compare to the Ram 1500's engines?

• The new 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 and 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid engines in the Tundra offer a balance of power and efficiency, bringing the Tundra closer to the Ram 1500 in terms of performance and fuel economy.

For more detailed insights and comparisons, visit our Learning Center.

References - 

Toyota USA - Toyota Tundra | Toyota.com

Ram USA - Ram 1500 | ramtrucks.com