The 2019 RAM 1500 Fires Back at GMC’s Multipro Tailgate With Something Simple And Useful

The more utility you can add to a pickup, the better it becomes. That’s a given, but how do you improve on the formula? It seems as though GMC found a way with its Multipro Tailgate and 2019 Sierra, which offers multiple configurations for improved access to the box, extended holding capacity, and a second-tier loading height. Now Ram is getting in on the action with its own take on the configurable tailgate concept, offering up something it’s calling the Multifunction Tailgate on all seven trim levels of the 2019 Ram 1500. Granted, GMC was the first in this space, but we think Ram might have the better tailgate this time around.

A Rose By Any Other Name

These include open flat, left-side open, right-side open, and fully open. Each of the individual doors can open at 88 degrees, and there’s a retractable center-mounted step option as well.

Standout features for the Multifunction Tailgate include a fully-dampened drop-down feature with a remote release, as well as a unique 60/40 split and swing-away function. The dual side-hinged doors allow for customized access to the bed, with independent functionality opening that makes curbside loading easier.

The tailgate also has a 2,000-pound load rating and can open with the hitch and trailer still attached. The inner wall of the tailgate gets a spray-in bed liner for added durability.

The Multifunction Tailgate option is offered on each of the seven individual 2019 Ram 1500 models and will be available at dealerships in the second quarter of 2019. Pricing for the feature is set at $995, while the optional center step goes for an additional $295.

How Does Ram’s Multifunction Tailgate Compare To GMC’s Multipro Tailgate?

Note: GMC Multipro Tailgate pictured here.

To answer that, let’s take a quick look at the GMC Multipro Tailgate. This feature is offered on the 2019 GMC Sierra, and comes as standard equipment on the Denali and SLT trim levels.

It offers six different configurations compared to the Ram’s four, and it has unique options like second-tier loading, load-stop solutions, and a mobile workstation mode. And of course, it offers easier access to the box as well.

However, the GMC tailgate is rated at a 375-pound weight capacity, whereas the Ram tailgate has a 2,000-pound load capacity.

There’s also an issue with operation of the GMC tailgate. While the GMC Multipro Tailgate offers more configurations than the Ram tailgate, we found it difficult to use when we played with it at the Detroit Auto Show. We think it’s too complicated, and didn’t like the fact it requires two hands to change into its various configurations. We also thought the hinges were too tight.

Note: Ram Multifunction Tailgate pictured here.

What About The Truck Specs?

Note: 2019 Ram 1500 pictured here.

For reference, the 2019 Ram 1500 is 225 pounds lighter than the outgoing model, despite being both longer and wider. There are three cab sizes on offer, and the interior is all-new as well. Cabin tech includes a 12.0-inch touchscreen plus SiriusXM 360L support. Engine options include a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel, an updated 5.7-liter Hemi V-8, and an updated 3.6-liter V-6, with a new eTorque mild hybrid system added to the Pentastar V-6 and Hemi V-8.

There’s extra storage in the cab as well, with a flat-load floor for the second row. Properly configured, up to 151 liters of stuff can fit in the interior storage.

Pricing for the 2019 Ram 1500 starts at $31,795

Note: 2019 GMC Sierra pictured here.

The 2019 GMC Sierra is also bigger than its outgoing predecessor, and it offers optional 22-inch wheels for more bling.

Inside the Sierra, you get tech like a multi-color heads-up display, a rear camera mirror, and loads of safety features. Engine options include a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder diesel, a 5.7-liter V-8, and a 6.2-liter V-8

Pricing for the 2019 GMC Sierra starts at $29,600.

Which would you rather have? Let us know in the comments below.