2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vs 2020 Ford F-150

The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 represents a significant redesign that Chevy loyalists had eagerly awaited. With a new sleeker look, enhanced performance capabilities, and a range of trim levels, it caters to a variety of budgets and needs. This truck not only embodies the pride of Chevy fans but also offers a modern and versatile vehicle that is more than just a workhorse. The 2020 Ford F-150, on the other hand, continued to balance the demands of a modern pickup truck with ease. It offers a modern interior, comfortable ride, and a powerful engine lineup, making it a versatile choice for both work and play. The F-150 stands out for its ability to handle heavy-duty tasks while providing a comfortable and accommodating interior, catering to a broad spectrum of users.

CarGurus experts rate the performance of the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 at 6 out of 10, while the 2020 Ford F-150 receives a 9 out of 10. The Silverado's diverse engine lineup offers respectable power and towing capabilities, but its fuel economy and driving dynamics underwhelm, especially in comparison to its EPA estimates. Despite these drawbacks, it provides a solid driving experience with a stiff architecture and off-road capabilities in the Trail Boss variant. The F-150 shines with its range of powerful engines, including the class-leading 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. It offers superior towing capacity and a refined ride that belies its size. The Raptor variant stands out for off-road enthusiasts, offering unmatched capabilities and performance. Ford's attention to driving dynamics and fuel efficiency makes the F-150 a standout in performance.

In terms of form and function, the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 receives a CarGurus rating of 7 out of 10, while the 2020 Ford F-150 outpaces it with a score of 9 out of 10. The Silverado's appeal lies in its substantial towing capacity, albeit slightly less than the F-150's, and its payload capacity shows similar competitiveness. Noteworthy is the Silverado's Durabed cargo box, which boasts a floor made of roll-formed, high-strength steel, offering up to 20% more total volume than its competitors. This translates into a significant cargo volume advantage, providing more space for luggage and equipment. The F-150, on the other hand, not only leads in towing and payload capacities but also emphasizes practicality with its cabin and bed design. The SuperCrew variant, in particular, is lauded for its spacious interior, with ample room for passengers and their belongings. Ford has designed the F-150's bed to include an accessible step, enhancing ease of use without compromising cargo space.

Technology ratings from CarGurus give the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 a 9 out of 10, slightly edging out the 2020 Ford F-150, which receives an 8 out of 10. The Silverado impresses with its next-generation Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, offering intuitive functionality and connectivity options, including a high-definition reversing camera and various advanced features for safer and more enjoyable drives. The F-150 counters with the SYNC 3 infotainment system, noted for its ease of use, clarity, and connectivity. FordPass adds a level of convenience with remote functions and vehicle status checks, further enhancing the F-150's technological offerings. Both trucks offer advanced sound systems and connectivity, catering to tech-savvy drivers.

Safety features and ratings are strong points for both trucks, with each scoring an 8 out of 10. The 2019 Silverado has added several new safety technologies, improving its overall safety profile. However, its crash-test performance and the newness of its frame design leave some questions unanswered. The 2020 F-150 excels in safety, with top marks from NHTSA and IIHS for the SuperCrew model, and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies available across the range. Ford's emphasis on safety is evident in its standard and available features, making the F-150 a secure choice for families and professionals alike.

Cost-effectiveness sees the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 rated at 6 out of 10, with the 2020 Ford F-150 scoring higher at 8 out of 10. The Silverado, while offering a range of options and capabilities, struggles with its high initial price and less-than-expected fuel economy. The F-150, however, offers a broad range of trims and engines that balance cost, comfort, and capability, with better fuel efficiency and towing capacity that may justify its cost over time.