Compare the2022 Toyota TundraVS 2022 Ram 1500 Classic

Safety
Warranty
Reliability
Engine
Fuel Economy and Range
Transmission
Brakes and Stopping
Tires and Wheels
Suspension and Handling
Chassis
Passenger Space
Cargo Capacity
Payload and Towing
Ergonomics

Safety

© 1999 - 2024Advanta-STAR Automotive Research, all rights reserved. This vehicle comparison and all of the content in it are provided only by license from Advanta-STAR Automotive Research Corporation of America (“Advanta-STAR”). If you are not a legally licensed user of this vehicle comparison, it is against federal law to access it, copy it, forward it, or use it in any manner whatsoever. Any unauthorized use of this vehicle comparison is a violation of U.S. and international law and is punishable criminally and civilly. Removal of this watermark/notification without prior written license and approval received from Advanta-STAR is an agreement, understanding, and/or stipulation by the person(s), entities, agents, attorneys, and any other persons involved in the removal of this watermark/notification (including but not limited to Search Optics, LLC and any and all parent entities, sister entities, and subsidiary entities of Search Optics, LLC and/or any other entity, agent, attorney, and persons related in any manner to Search Optics, LLC) to: 1) an agreed upon amount of liquidated monetary damages of a minimum of $1,250,000.00 US Dollars in favor of Advanta-STAR; 2) the jurisdiction and enforcement of any legal claims associated with this matter asserted by Advanta-STAR in the United States Federal District Court in Portand, Oregon; and 3) service of process of any legal claims asserted by Advanta-STAR associated with this matter may be accomplished by First-Class Postage by the United States Postal Service or comparable service. XPYNN-M34HG 2a06:98c0:3600::103 2024/05/06

For enhanced safety, the front and rear seat shoulder belts of the Toyota Tundra have pretensioners to tighten the seatbelts and eliminate dangerous slack in the event of a collision and force limiters to limit the pressure the belts will exert on the passengers. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer pretensioners for the rear seat belts.

In the past twenty years hundreds of infants and young children have died after being left in vehicles, usually by accident. When turning the vehicle off, drivers of the Tundra are reminded to check the back seat if they opened the rear door before starting out. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer a back seat reminder.

The Toyota Tundra has standard driver and front passenger side knee airbags mounted low on the dashboard. These airbags helps prevent the driver and front passenger from sliding under their seatbelts or the main frontal airbags; this keeps them better positioned during a collision for maximum protection. Knee airbags also help keep the legs from striking the dashboard, preventing knee and leg injuries in the case of a serious frontal collision. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer knee airbags.

The Tundra has standard Active Headrests, which use a specially designed headrest to protect the driver and front passenger from whiplash. During a rear-end collision, the Active Headrests system moves the headrests forward to prevent neck and spine injuries. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer a whiplash protection system.

The Tundra has standard Pre-Collision System, which use forward mounted sensors to warn the driver of a possible collision ahead. If the driver doesn’t react and the system determines a collision is imminent, it automatically applies the brakes at full-force in order to reduce the force of the crash or avoid it altogether. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn't offer collision warning or crash mitigation brakes.

The Tundra has a standard Secondary Collision Brake, which automatically applies the brakes in the event of a crash to help prevent secondary collisions and prevent further injuries. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer a post collision braking system: in the event of a collision that triggers the airbags, more collisions are possible without the protection of airbags that may have already deployed.

Over 200 people are killed each year when backed over by motor vehicles. The Tundra offers optional Parking Support Brake that uses rear sensors to monitor and automatically apply the brakes to prevent a rear collision. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer backup collision prevention brakes.

When descending a steep, off-road slope, the Tundra 4x4’s optional Hill Descent Control allows you to creep down safely. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer Hill Descent Control.

The Toyota Tundra has Daytime Running Lights to help keep it more visible under all conditions. Canadian government studies show that driving with lights during the day reduces accidents by 11% by making vehicles more conspicuous. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer Daytime Running Lights.

The Tundra’s lane departure warning system alerts a temporarily inattentive driver when the vehicle begins to leave its lane and gently nudges the vehicle back towards its lane. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer a lane departure warning system.

The Tundra (except SR) offers an optional Panoramic View Monitor to allow the driver to see objects all around the vehicle on a screen. The Ram 1500 Classic only offers a rear monitor and front and rear parking sensors that beep or flash a light. That doesn’t help with obstacles to the sides.

To help make backing out of a parking space safer, the Tundra (except SR)’s optional rear cross-path warning system uses sensors in the rear bumper to alert the driver to vehicles approaching from the side, helping the driver avoid collisions. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer a cross-path warning system.

Both the Tundra and the Ram 1500 Classic have standard driver and passenger frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-impact head airbags, height adjustable front shoulder belts, four-wheel antilock brakes, traction control, electronic stability systems to prevent skidding, rearview cameras, available four-wheel drive and blind spot warning systems.

Warranty

Toyota pays for scheduled maintenance on the Tundra for 2 years and 25000 miles. Toyota will pay for oil changes, lubrication and any other required maintenance. Ram doesn’t pay scheduled maintenance for the 1500 Classic.

Reliability

For smoother operation, better efficiency and fewer moving parts, the engines in the Tundra have an overhead cam design, rather than the old pushrod design of the 5.7 V8 in the Ram 1500 Classic.

J.D. Power and Associates’ 2022 survey of the owners of three-year-old vehicles provides the long-term dependability statistics that show that Toyota vehicles are more reliable than Ram vehicles. J.D. Power ranks Toyota above average in long-term dependability. With 34 more problems per 100 vehicles in the first three years of ownership, Ram is rated below average.

From surveys of all its subscribers, Consumer Reports’ January 2021 Auto Issue reports that Toyota vehicles are more reliable than Ram vehicles. Consumer Reports ranks Toyota second in overall reliability. Ram is ranked 7th.

Engine

The Tundra has more powerful engines than the Ram 1500 Classic:

	Horsepower	Torque
Tundra SR 3.4 turbo V6	348 HP	405 lbs.-ft.
Tundra 3.4 turbo V6	389 HP	479 lbs.-ft.
Tundra 3.4 turbo V6 hybrid	437 HP	583 lbs.-ft.
Ram 1500 Classic 3.6 DOHC V6	305 HP	269 lbs.-ft.
Ram 1500 Classic 5.7 V8	395 HP	410 lbs.-ft.

As tested in Motor Trend the Toyota Tundra turbo V6 is faster than the Ram 1500 Classic V8:

	Tundra	1500 Classic
Zero to 60 MPH	6.2 sec	6.9 sec
Quarter Mile	14.7 sec	15.4 sec
Speed in 1/4 Mile	95.3 MPH	88.6 MPH

Fuel Economy and Range

On the EPA test cycle the Tundra gets better mileage than the Ram 1500 Classic:

			MPG
Tundra
	RWD	3.4 turbo V6 Hybrid	20 city/24 hwy
		SR 3.4 turbo V6	18 city/24 hwy
		3.4 turbo V6 (389 HP)	18 city/23 hwy
	AWD	3.4 turbo V6 Hybrid	19 city/22 hwy
		TRD Pro 3.4 turbo V6 Hybrid	19 city/21 hwy
		SR/SR5 3.4 turbo V6	17 city/23 hwy
		3.4 turbo V6 (389 HP)	17 city/22 hwy
Ram 1500 Classic
	RWD	3.6 DOHC V6	17 city/25 hwy
		5.7 OHV V8	15 city/21 hwy
	AWD	3.6 DOHC V6	16 city/23 hwy
		5.7 OHV V8	15 city/21 hwy

Regenerative brakes improve the Tundra i-FORCE MAX’s fuel efficiency by converting inertia back into energy instead of wasting it. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer a regenerative braking system.

In heavy traffic or at stop lights the Tundra’s engine automatically turns off when the vehicle is stopped, saving fuel and reducing pollution. The engine is automatically restarted when the driver gets ready to move again. If the conditions warrant or the driver wishes, the system can be manually disabled at any time for the duration of a trip. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer an automatic engine start/stop system.

Transmission

A 10-speed automatic is standard on the Toyota Tundra, for better acceleration and lower engine speed on the highway. Only an eight-speed automatic is available for the Ram 1500 Classic.

Brakes and Stopping

For better stopping power the Tundra’s front brake rotors are larger than those on the Ram 1500 Classic:

	Tundra	1500 Classic
Front Rotors	13.9 inches	13.2 inches

The Tundra stops shorter than the Ram 1500 Classic:

	Tundra	Ram 1500 Classic
70 to 0 MPH	194 feet	199 feet	Car and Driver
60 to 0 MPH	135 feet	138 feet	Motor Trend

Tires and Wheels

For better traction, the Tundra 5.5-foot bed TRD Pro Crew Cab Pickup’s tires are larger than the largest tires available on the Ram 1500 Classic (285/65R18 vs. 275/60R20).

The Tundra Capstone’s tires provide better handling because they have a lower 50 series profile (height to width ratio) that provides a stiffer sidewall than the Ram 1500 Classic’s optional 60 series tires.

For better ride, handling and brake cooling the Tundra has standard 18-inch wheels. Smaller 17-inch wheels are standard on the Ram 1500 Classic. The Tundra Capstone’s 22-inch wheels are larger than the 20-inch wheels optional on the Ram 1500 Classic.

The Toyota Tundra’s wheels have 6 lugs for longer wheel bearing life, less chance of rotor warping and greater strength. The Ram 1500 Classic only has 5 wheel lugs per wheel.

The Tundra has a standard full size spare so a flat doesn’t interrupt your work or a trip. A full size spare costs extra on the Ram 1500 Classic. Without the option you must depend on a temporary spare, which limits mileage and speed before replacement.

Suspension and Handling

The Tundra offers an available driver-adjustable suspension system. It allows the driver to choose between an extra-supple ride, reducing fatigue on long trips, or a sport setting, which allows maximum control for tricky roads. The Ram 1500 Classic’s suspension doesn’t offer adjustable shock absorbers.

The Tundra has a standard automatic load leveling suspension to keep ride height level with a heavy load or when towing. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer a load leveling suspension.

For a smoother ride and more stable handling, the Tundra’s wheelbase is longer than on the Ram 1500 Classic:

	Tundra	Ram 1500 Classic
Extended Cab Standard Bed	145.7 inches	140.5 inches
Extended Cab Long Bed	164.6 inches	n/a
Crew Cab Short Bed	145.7 inches	140.5 inches
Crew Cab Standard Bed	157.7 inches	149.4 inches

For better handling and stability, the average track (width between the wheels) on the Tundra is .8 inches wider in the front and 1.4 inches wider in the rear than the average track on the Ram 1500 Classic.

The Tundra 5.5-foot bed Limited Crew Cab Pickup 4x4 handles at .72 G’s, while the Ram 1500 Classic short bed Crew Cab 4x4 pulls only .69 G’s of cornering force in a Motor Trend skidpad test.

The Tundra 5.5-foot bed Limited Crew Cab Pickup 4x4 executes Motor Trend’s “Figure Eight” maneuver quicker than the Ram 1500 Classic short bed Crew Cab 4x4 (28.5 seconds @ .59 average G’s vs. 29.1 seconds @ .6 average G’s).

For greater off-road capability the Tundra 8.1-foot bed Extended Cab Pickup has a 2.3 inches greater minimum ground clearance than the Ram 1500 Classic standard bed Regular Cab (10.9 vs. 8.6 inches), allowing the Tundra to travel over rougher terrain without being stopped or damaged. The Tundra 5.5-foot bed Crew Cab Pickup’s minimum ground clearance is .4 inch higher than on the Ram 1500 Classic short bed Crew Cab w/Air Suspension (11.2 vs. 10.8 inches).

Chassis

The design of the Toyota Tundra amounts to more than styling. The Tundra has an aerodynamic coefficient of drag of .36 Cd. That is lower than the Ram 1500 Classic (.36 to .363). A more efficient exterior helps keep the interior quieter and helps the Tundra get better fuel mileage.

Passenger Space

The Tundra Crew Cab Pickup has .2 inches more front legroom and 1.3 inches more rear legroom than the Ram 1500 Classic Crew Cab.

Cargo Capacity

A standard locking glovebox (which can’t be accessed with the valet key) keeps your small valuables safer in the Tundra. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer locking storage for small valuables.

Payload and Towing

The Tundra’s standard towing capacity is much higher than the Ram 1500 Classic’s (8300 vs. 4350 pounds). Maximum trailer towing in the Ram 1500 Classic Regular Cab is only 10610 pounds. The Tundra Extended Cab Pickup offers up to a 12000 lbs. towing capacity.

The Tundra has a higher standard payload capacity than the Ram 1500 Classic:

	Tundra	Ram 1500 Classic
Crew Cab	1810 lbs.	1610 lbs.
Crew Cab 4x4	1575 lbs.	1430 lbs.

The Tundra has higher optional payload capacities than the Ram 1500 Classic:

	Tundra	Ram 1500 Classic
Extended Cab half ton	1940 lbs.	1930 lbs.
Crew Cab	1885 lbs.	1870 lbs.
Extended Cab half ton 4x4	1830 lbs.	1740 lbs.
Crew Cab 4x4	1820 lbs.	1560 lbs.

Ergonomics

To help each driver find a more comfortable driving position, the Tundra Platinum/1794 offers a telescoping steering wheel. Much better than just a tilt steering wheel or adjustable seat, this allows a short driver to sit further from the steering wheel while maintaining contact with the pedals. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer a telescoping steering wheel.

When two different drivers share the Tundra Limited/Platinum/1794/TRD Pro, the memory system makes it convenient for both. Each setting activates different, customized memories for the driver’s seat position, steering wheel position (with optional power wheel adjuster) and outside mirror angle. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer a memory system.

The Tundra Platinum/1794’s standard easy entry system raises the steering wheel and glides the driver’s seat back when the door is unlocked or the ignition is switched off, making it easier for the driver to get in and out. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer an easy entry system.

The Tundra Platinum/1794 offers an optional heads-up display that projects speed and navigation instruction readouts in front of the driver’s line of sight, allowing drivers to view information without diverting their eyes from the road. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer a heads-up display.

The Tundra’s power parking brake sets with one touch and releases with one touch or automatically. The Ram 1500 Classic’s parking brake has to be released manually.

The Tundra’s standard power windows allow the driver or passenger to lower and raise the windows without leaning over or being distracted. Power windows cost extra on the Ram 1500 Classic.

The Tundra’s front and rear power windows all open or close fully with one touch of the switches, making it more convenient at drive-up windows and toll booths, or when talking with someone outside the car. The Ram 1500 Classic’s basic optional power window switches have to be held the entire time to close them fully. Only its front windows open automatically.

If the windows are left open on the Tundra the driver can close them all at the outside door handle. On a hot day the driver can lower the windows at the outside door handle or from a distance using the keyless remote. (This window function must be activated by your Toyota service department.) The driver of the Ram 1500 Classic can only operate the windows from inside the vehicle, with the ignition on.

The Tundra’s standard power locks allow the driver or passenger to lock or unlock all the doors at a touch without leaning over. Power locks cost extra on the Ram 1500 Classic.

The Smart Key System standard on the Tundra allows you to unlock the driver’s door, tailgate and start the engine all without removing a key from pocket or purse. This eliminates searching for keys before loading cargo, getting in the vehicle in bad weather or making a hurried start to your trip. The Ram 1500 Classic’s available Keyless Enter ‘n Go doesn’t unlock the tailgate.

The Tundra Hybrid has a standard locking fuel door with a remote release located convenient to the driver. A locking fuel door helps prevent fuel theft and vandalism, such as sugar in the tank. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer a locking fuel door.

The Tundra Platinum/1794 Edition’s standard wipers adjust their speed and turn on and off automatically according to the amount of rainfall on the windshield. The Ram 1500 Classic’s manually variable intermittent wipers have to be constantly adjusted.

While driving with high beams on, sensitive light sensors standard on the Tundra detect other vehicles which could be blinded and automatically switch to low beams. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer automatic dimming high beams.

Manual rear side window sunshades are available in the Tundra to help block heat and glare for the rear passengers. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer rear side window sunshades.

The Tundra has standard power remote mirrors. The Ram 1500 Classic only comes with remote mirrors at extra cost. Without them the driver will have to roll down the windows and reach across the car to adjust the mirrors.

The Tundra’s standard outside mirrors include heating elements to clear off the mirrors for better visibility. Ram charges extra for heated mirrors on the Ram 1500 Classic.

When the Tundra Limited/Platinum/1794/TRD Pro is put in reverse, both rearview mirrors tilt from their original position. This gives the driver a better view of the curb during parallel parking maneuvers. Shifting out of reverse puts the mirrors into their original positions. The Ram 1500 Classic’s mirrors don’t automatically adjust for backing.

Both the Tundra and the Ram 1500 Classic offer available heated front seats. The Tundra Platinum/1794 also has standard heated rear seats to keep those passengers extremely comfortable in the winter. Heated rear seats aren’t available in the Ram 1500 Classic.

The Tundra Limited/Platinum/1794/TRD Pro has standard front air conditioned seats and the Tundra Platinum/1794 also has them in the rear. This keeps the passengers comfortable and takes the sting out of hot seats in summer. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer air-conditioned seats.

To keep a safe, consistent following distance, the Tundra has a standard Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which alters the speed of the vehicle without driver intervention. This allows the driver to use cruise control more safely without constantly having to disengage it when approaching slower traffic. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer an adaptive cruise control.

Bluetooth wireless connectivity is standard on the Tundra, connecting the driver and passenger’s cell phones to the vehicle systems. This allows them to use the vehicle’s stereo and hand controls to place calls safely and easily. Bluetooth costs extra on the Ram 1500 Classic.

To quickly and conveniently keep personal devices charged without cables tangling and wearing out, the Toyota Tundra (except SR/SR5) offers an optional wireless phone charging system (Qi) in the center console. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer wireless personal charging.

The Tundra (except SR) offers an optional 115-volt a/c outlet on the center console, allowing you to recharge a laptop or run small household appliances without special adapters that can break or get misplaced. The Ram 1500 Classic doesn’t offer a house-current electrical outlet.