2025 Ford F‑150 vs. 2025 Ram 1500: 5 Major Differences
A battle of full-size titans
The full-size pickup segment is the backbone of the U.S. auto market, and no matchup is bigger than Ford versus Ram. The 2025 Ford F‑150 and the 2025 Ram 1500 stand as two of the most capable and best-selling vehicles on the road, each offering a different take on what a modern truck should be. Ford leans into its reputation for versatility, innovation, and work-ready performance, while Ram continues to focus on refinement and everyday comfort without giving up its own impressive capabilities.
Both trucks have been refreshed and updated for 2025, which makes the comparison especially relevant for anyone considering a new pickup this year. When lined up side by side, these two titans reveal five clear areas of difference. From towing and hauling strength to interior luxury and onboard tech, here's how they stack up in 2025.
1. Towing and payload capabilities
The Ford F‑150 keeps its edge in maximum towing capacity when properly configured, offering up to 13,500 pounds—nearly 2,000 pounds more than the Ram 1500. In common setups like a SuperCrew with the 5.0‑liter V8 or PowerBoost Hybrid, tow ratings typically hover around 12,900 pounds. The Ram 1500, for its part, tops out at about 11,550 pounds with its available 3.0‑liter Hurricane inline‑six.
Payload numbers tell a more balanced story. The F‑150 is rated for up to roughly 2,225 pounds, depending on engine and bed configuration, while the Ram can carry up to 2,300 pounds. If you're not going to be towing much, there's not a lot of difference between the two here. But for drivers who prioritize outright workhorse ability, Ford has the advantage.
2. Powertrain options and performance
One of Ford's biggest strengths is variety. The 2025 F‑150 offers a wide lineup, from the standard 2.7‑liter EcoBoost V6 (325 horsepower, 400 lb‑ft of torque) to the burly 5.0‑liter V8 (400 hp, 410 lb‑ft) and the 3.5‑liter EcoBoost V6 (400 hp, 500 lb‑ft). The highlight is the PowerBoost Hybrid, which pairs the 3.5‑liter EcoBoost with an electric motor to deliver a blend of torque, towing ability, and efficiency.
The Ram 1500 simplifies things with three core options. The base is a 3.6‑liter Pentastar V6 with eTorque, good for about 305 hp and 269 lb‑ft. The next step up is the new 3.0‑liter Hurricane inline‑six, making roughly 420 hp and 469 lb‑ft. At the top sits a high-output Hurricane variant, pushing as much as 540 hp and 521 lb‑ft. Ram's new six-cylinder lineup is potent, but Ford still offers a broader range of choices—including a robust hybrid option that gives it unique appeal.
3. Fuel economy
Fuel efficiency is another area where Ford has the edge. The PowerBoost Hybrid F‑150 earns EPA estimates of around 25 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, making it one of the most efficient full-size pickups you can buy. Even Ford's smaller EcoBoost V6 engines post competitive numbers, averaging 19–20 mpg city and up to 26 mpg highway.
The Ram 1500's mild-hybrid eTorque V6 returns about 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, similar to Ford's standard offerings but unable to match the PowerBoost's numbers. The high-output Hurricane prioritizes performance over efficiency. Ram's previous EcoDiesel option, which once reached into the low 30s on the highway, is no longer widely available, leaving Ford with the advantage on gas mileage.
4. Interior amenities and comfort
Step inside, and the differences become clear. The Ram 1500 has built its reputation on interior refinement, and the 2025 model continues to deliver. Top trims can be equipped with massaging, heated, and ventilated seats, reclining rear benches, real wood and leather finishes, and even a 23-speaker Klipsch audio system. The available 14.4‑inch touchscreen dominates the dash and supports Ram's Uconnect infotainment software. An optional air suspension smooths out rough roads and adds load-leveling capability when towing.
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The F‑150, meanwhile, focuses on rugged functionality with a more work-oriented cabin design. That doesn't mean it skimps on features—high trims offer leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, an 18‑speaker B&O audio system, and Ford's SYNC 4 infotainment system with available 12‑inch displays. Ford's cabin is spacious and versatile, but for those who want a truck that feels more like a luxury SUV inside, Ram holds the upper hand.
5. Technology and driver assistance
Both trucks come loaded with tech, though their emphasis differs. The F‑150 features Ford's SYNC 4 system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air updates, and a built-in Wi‑Fi hotspot. One of its standout features is BlueCruise, Ford's hands-free highway driving system, which continues to expand across the lineup in 2025.
The Ram 1500 counters with its upgraded Uconnect system, optional 14‑inch touchscreen, and a suite of advanced driver aids. Available Hands‑Free Active Driving Assist, automated parking, drowsy-driver detection, and traffic-sign recognition push Ram's tech credentials further. A 360‑degree camera system with trailer blind‑spot monitoring also makes it easier to manage tight spots when hauling big loads. Ford's BlueCruise is ahead in semi-autonomous driving, but Ram matches it with safety and trailer-focused aids that many buyers will find just as valuable.
Final thoughts
The 2025 Ford F‑150 and 2025 Ram 1500 may share the same segment, but they approach it from different angles. Ford continues to dominate in raw towing numbers, while its PowerBoost Hybrid gives it a clear fuel economy edge. Ram, on the other hand, leads in cabin luxury and offers some of the most advanced driver-assist systems available in a truck.
Choosing between the two comes down to priorities (to say nothing of loyalties). If you want maximum capability and a hybrid option that balances power with efficiency, the Ford F‑150 is tough to beat. If you prefer an upscale interior, smoother ride, and cutting-edge driver-assist technology, the Ram 1500 makes a strong case. Either way, both remain top choices in 2025's fiercely competitive full-size pickup market.
2025 Ford F‑150 vs. 2025 Ram 1500: 5 Major Differences first appeared on Autoblog on Jul 30, 2025
This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Jul 30, 2025, where it first appeared.
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