2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vs 2019 RAM 1500

The loyalty that pickup truck buyers have for their chosen brand is a testament to their commitment to quality, capability, and style. The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, with new design and enhanced features, aimed to deepen that loyalty among Chevy fans, boasting significant improvements that align with the brand's reputation for reliability and strength. Similarly, the 2019 Ram 1500 elevated the concept of a commuter truck to new heights, offering unparalleled comfort and sophistication without compromising its workhorse capabilities. Both trucks signified major steps forward in their respective lineages, promising to fulfill the diverse needs of modern truck buyers.

Regarding performance, CarGurus experts give the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 a 6 out of 10 and the 2019 Ram 1500 a perfect 10 out of 10. The Silverado's diverse engine lineup promises impressive towing and payload capacities, though its real-world fuel efficiency and some transmission quirks have room for improvement. The Ram 1500's engine options, particularly with the eTorque mild-hybrid system, offer a compelling blend of power and efficiency. Its driving dynamics are described as effortless, with a smooth ride and responsive handling that defy its size.

In the realm of form and function, the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and the 2019 Ram 1500 showcase distinct priorities that cater to different user needs, while both striving to blend utility with modern demands for convenience and versatility. The Silverado 1500's design and engineering focus on providing a robust platform for towing and hauling, boasting a maximum towing capacity of up to 12,200 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 2,250 pounds. These figures, while impressive, slightly trail behind the Ram 1500 in towing capacity but remain competitive within the light-duty segment. Chevrolet has engineered the Silverado with a Durabed cargo box, notable for its roll-formed, high-strength steel floor that resists damage more effectively than conventional beds. This bed also offers up to 20% more volume than its competitors, equipped with 12 tie-down hooks rated for 500 pounds each, underscoring Chevrolet's commitment to utility and durability. Additionally, features like larger bumper corner steps and a power-release tailgate enhance usability in real-world scenarios. Conversely, the Ram 1500 emphasizes refinement and interior functionality without compromising on its core truck capabilities. It slightly edges out the Silverado in towing, with a maximum capacity of 12,750 pounds, and offers a marginally higher payload rating of 2,300 pounds. The Ram 1500 distinguishes itself with the Ram Box utility system, an innovative storage solution that enhances the truck's usability without sacrificing bed space. Additionally, the Ram's attention to detail extends to its interior design, where nearly 90-degree opening rear doors and flip-up rear seats facilitate easy loading of large items into the cabin, enhancing the truck's versatility for both work and family use. The lack of a bed step-up feature is noted, though this is offset by other thoughtful design elements aimed at maximizing convenience and functionality.

Both trucks score a 9 out of 10 in technology. The Silverado 1500's next-generation Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system offers enhanced graphics and functionality, with useful features like a Teen Driver report-card system. The Ram 1500 sets itself apart with its available 12-inch touchscreen, offering unparalleled customization and ease of use, setting a standard for infotainment systems in the segment.

Safety ratings for both trucks stand at an 8 out of 10. The Silverado 1500 introduces new safety features like pedestrian braking and a Rear Seat Reminder system, though it was awaiting crash-test evaluations at the time of the review. The Ram 1500 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, with additional options like a 360-degree camera and adaptive cruise control available on higher trims.

CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 at 6 out of 10 and the 2019 Ram 1500 at 7 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The Silverado 1500's higher trim levels can become quite expensive, especially when considering its fuel economy and towing capabilities relative to its competitors. Conversely, the Ram 1500 offers a compelling value proposition, combining luxury, comfort, and capability at competitive price points, making it an attractive option for both work and leisure use.