2021 Ford F-150 vs 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD was a truck that sparked mixed reactions with its bold design. Its exterior, part of the same design language as the Camaro and Blazer, was not universally praised. Despite initial criticism, the Silverado's design began to grow on some over time, though it was clear that its primary focus was on functionality rather than aesthetics. Inside, the Silverado maintained a familiar cabin layout, with all controls and features in their expected places, making it user-friendly for those accustomed to previous models. The truck's interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring a column shifter and a straightforward arrangement of dials and buttons.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford F-150 retained a familiar design theme but introduced subtle changes for improved aerodynamics and a refreshed look. The new front fascia, larger headlights, and rounder grille shape gave it a modern touch. The F-150's interior was also redesigned, maintaining its truck-like appearance with large angular air vents and a high center console. The King Ranch trim level offered luxurious materials, including leather upholstery and wood trim, providing a more upscale feel compared to other high-end trucks. Ford's attention to detail in both exterior and interior design aimed to enhance the truck's functionality and appeal.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered two powerful V8 engine options, both displacing 6.6 liters. The standard gas V8 produced 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque, while the optional Duramax turbodiesel V8 delivered 445 horsepower and an impressive 910 pound-feet of torque. This power was channeled through a 10-speed automatic transmission, with options for rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive. The diesel engine, while not as responsive as the gas V8, provided substantial towing capabilities, with the ability to tow up to 18,500 pounds. The Silverado's fuel economy was not officially rated by the EPA, but it achieved around 17 mpg during testing, offering a range of over 600 miles on a full tank.

The 2021 Ford F-150 featured a diverse range of powertrains, including a base 3.3-liter V6 with 290 horsepower and a 5.0-liter V8 with 400 horsepower. Ford also offered two EcoBoost V6 engines and a Power Stroke turbodiesel V6. The standout was the new PowerBoost hybrid powertrain, combining a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with an electric motor for a total output of 430 horsepower and 570 pound-feet of torque. The F-150 excelled in payload and towing capacity, with the 5.0-liter V8 achieving a maximum payload of 3,325 pounds and the non-hybrid 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 towing up to 14,000 pounds. The hybrid powertrain provided a smooth ride, although transitions between electric and hybrid modes were occasionally rough.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered various bed and cab configurations, including a spacious Crew Cab with a standard bed. The truck featured practical elements like CornerSteps and BedSteps, designed to accommodate work boots. The LTZ trim included a power lift-and-lower tailgate, accessible via the key fob or cabin buttons. The Silverado's cabin was spacious, with ample storage options, including a massive center console bin and hidden cubbies in the rear seatbacks. The interior layout remained consistent with previous models, ensuring ease of use for drivers familiar with the Silverado.

The 2021 Ford F-150 catered to the concept of a mobile office, with features like a fold-flat shifter creating a work surface for a laptop. Higher trims offered Max Recline Seats for added comfort. The F-150 provided generous storage, including a large center-console bin and cupholders. Cab options included a two-door regular cab, SuperCab, and SuperCrew, with the latter offering more space for rear passengers. Bed sizes ranged from 5.5 to 8 feet, and the truck featured power running boards and a tailgate with etched rulers. The F-150 also offered the Pro Power Onboard system, providing in-bed power outlets for added utility.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD focused on practical technology, with a base 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system on lower trims and an 8-inch screen on higher trims. Both systems supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a straightforward layout and large icons. The truck featured multiple USB ports and power outlets, with wireless charging available on higher trims. A 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was standard on mid to high trims, enhancing connectivity for passengers.

The 2021 Ford F-150 introduced the Sync 4 infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air updates. An 8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 12-inch screen available on higher trims. The system's menus were well-organized, and the digital instrument cluster displayed key information clearly. Ford included physical buttons for essential functions, and the truck featured Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Trailer Reverse Guidance for easier towing. These advanced features aimed to enhance the F-150's usability and convenience.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD came equipped with a reversing camera, traction control, and a full array of airbags. The LTZ trim added a surround-view camera with trailer views and the Safety Package II, which included forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Safety Alert Seat provided tactile feedback for safety alerts. The Safety Package I offered front and rear parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring, essential for maneuvering in tight spaces.

The 2021 Ford F-150 had not yet received full crash-test ratings, but it carried over a "good" roof strength rating from the previous model. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high beams. Additional features like lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and intersection assist were available. The F-150 was set to receive Ford's Active Drive Assist system, capable of handling driving tasks on designated highways, with a driver-facing camera for monitoring.