The 2023 Ram 1500 and the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 are two high-end competitors in the full-size truck segment. These trucks offer solid power, advanced technology, and impressive towing capabilities, which makes them popular choices among truck enthusiasts. Let’s examine key features to help you make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- The Ram 1500 comes with a more aggressive appearance while the Sierra 1500 has a more premier look.
- Both trucks come with impressive interiors, engine options, and safety.
- The Sierra 1500 can slightly tow and haul more than the Ram 1500.
- The Ram 1500 has a market price of $39,000 while the Sierra 1500 has a market price of $37,000.
Design
The Ram 1500 keeps its iconic look that features bold lines, a massive grille, and aggressive appearance; however, new LED headlights give it a somewhat distinctive modern look. The Sierra 1500 follows a more premier, stylish look with its bold front grille design and muscular body; however, each trim offers a different look. For example, AT4 models have a more aggressive appearance while the Denali models have a more luxurious look. Both trucks are available in various cab and bed configurations that can cater to your different needs.
Interior
The Ram 1500 can come in two kinds of cabins: the Quad Cab or the Crew Cab. Though both cabins offer six seats (three per row), the Crew Cab has 10 more inches of legroom in the rear than the Quad cab. However, both cabs come with plenty of storage space and a nice console. As for technology, the Ram 1500 has a 12-inch touchscreen that comes in a tablet style. The software is user-friendly and comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Sierra 1500 can come with a practical interior or a refined interior. Regardless of the type of trim and luxury you want, the cab offers spacious legroom and headroom that is either work-friendly or family-friendly. As for technology, the Sierra 1500 comes with a 13.4-inch touchscreen that comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play.
Performance
The Ram 1500 offers the following engine options:
- 3.6-Liter ETorque Mild Hybrid V6
- 3.0-Liter Turbodiesel V6
- 5.7-Liter V8
- 6.2-Liter Supercharged V8
With different powertrains, the Ram 1500 is sure to find the amount of power and torque right for you. However, the average V6 engine has 305 horsepower, 269 lb-ft. of torque, and a combined 22 MPG with a 26-gallon tank.
The Sierra also offers the following engines:
- 2.7-liter turbo I4
- 5.3-liter V8
- 6.2-liter V8
- 3.0-liter turbodiesel I6
With these different engine options, you are sure to find an engine that matches your needs. However, the V6 engine (to compare with the Ram 1500) has 277 horsepower, 460 lb-ft. of torque, and a combined 26.5 MPG (approximation) with a 24-gallon tank.
Towing and Hauling
The Ram 1500 offers a maximum towing capacity of up to 12,750 pounds and a hauling capacity of about 2,320 pounds. The Sierra 1500 can tow up to 13,200 pounds and haul up to 2,240 pounds. The Ram 1500 comes with a standard 76-inch bed while the Sierra 1500 has a 79-inch bed.
Safety
In terms of safety, both trucks are equipped with modern features to enhance driver assistance and convenience. The Ram 1500 offers blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The Sierra 1500 comes with similar safety features that include a rearview camera, lane departure warning, and forward collision alert.
Price
The Ram 1500 has an MSRP range of about $40,000 – $84,000 with a market price of about $39,000. The Sierra 1500 has an MSRP range of about $43,000 - $82,000 with a market price of about $37,000. Though the prices are subject to extra features, trim level, and engine option, the Ram 1500 is generally more expensive than the Sierra 1500; however, you would get your money’s worth with engine performance more than you would with the Sierra 1500.
Overview
The Ram 1500 shines with its spacious interior, wide range of engine options, and exceptional towing capabilities. Meanwhile, the Sierra 1500 offers a refined ride and slightly more conservative but high-quality interior. Whichever truck you choose, you can't go wrong with these capable and well-equipped contenders in the full-size truck segment.