2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vs 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty

The Chevrolet Silverado and Ford F-Series lineups are often compared, but you don’t always see a heavy-duty truck compared to a light-duty. Here, we dig into the differing strengths of the Silverado 1500 and the F-250 Super Duty. The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 represented more than just a vehicle for its loyalists; it embodies a lifestyle and a source of pride, especially with its redesigned model that promised to keep Chevy enthusiasts more than satisfied with its new look and improved functionalities. In contrast, the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty, while also catering to brand loyalists, emphasized the necessity of balance in a heavy-duty pickup, offering a mix of best-in-class features without compromising on overall performance and utility. This approach made the F-250 a versatile choice for those needing a powerful yet balanced truck.

The 2019 Silverado 1500 earns a 6 out of 10 for performance, offering a wide range of engines including a notable 5.3-liter V8. Despite strong acceleration and a comprehensive off-road package in the LT Trail Boss, its real-world fuel economy falls short of expectations. On the other side, the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty impresses with a 9 out of 10 performance rating, thanks to its powerful engine lineup including the 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8. Its towing and hauling capabilities are outstanding, though the ride quality can be rough when not loaded down.

In terms of form and function, the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty cater to distinct segments within the pickup truck market, each with its strengths. The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, rated at 7 out of 10 by CarGurus experts, is designed with light-duty tasks in mind. It boasts a maximum towing capacity of up to 12,200 pounds and a payload rating of up to 2,250 pounds. These figures reflect Chevrolet's commitment to providing a truck that balances everyday usability with the capability for heavier lifting when needed. The Silverado's Durabed cargo box is highlighted for its roll-formed, high-strength steel floor, offering up to 20% more total volume than its competitors, complemented by 12 tie-down hooks, each rated for 500 pounds of force, and features like larger bumper corner steps and a new power-release tailgate that enhance usability and convenience. On the other hand, the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty, receiving a 9 out of 10 for form and function, firmly positions itself in the heavy-duty segment. It's available in configurations that allow for an astronomical towing capacity of up to 30,000 pounds when properly equipped, showcasing its prowess in handling substantial loads. The payload capacity further underscores its utility, and the F-250's heavy-duty frame and engine options are designed to accommodate significant weight. The truck's versatility is further evidenced by its cabin and storage solutions, offering spacious and functional interiors across its Regular Cab, SuperCab, and Crew Cab variants, and bed sizes of 6-foot-9-inch or 8-foot, ensuring ample room for both passengers and cargo. Both trucks demonstrate a keen understanding of their respective markets' needs, with the Silverado 1500 appealing to those requiring a versatile, everyday vehicle that can handle occasional heavy lifting, and the F-250 Super Duty serving those who prioritize maximum towing and payload capacities for work or serious hauling tasks.

Technology in the 2019 Silverado 1500 is highly rated at 9 out of 10, featuring upgrades like a high-definition reversing camera and the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, along with connectivity and entertainment options that enhance the driving experience. The 2020 F-250 Super Duty earns an 8 out of 10, with standard features including the SYNC 3 infotainment system and FordPass Connect. Though not as advanced as the Silverado in terms of infotainment, it still offers a solid suite of technology features for a heavy-duty truck.

Safety ratings for the 2019 Silverado 1500 come in at 8 out of 10, with improvements like pedestrian braking and blind-spot monitoring. The inclusion of these advanced safety features, along with the standard Rear Seat Reminder system, highlights Chevrolet's commitment to safety. The F-250 Super Duty's safety features rate at 7 out of 10, offering a range of optional safety technologies. While it includes essential safety features, the availability of more advanced systems as optional rather than standard may affect its overall safety appeal.

Cost effectiveness for the 2019 Silverado 1500 is rated at 6 out of 10. Despite its high new-car price point, especially for models like the LT Trail Boss, Chevrolet offers a range of options to meet various needs and budgets, though real-world fuel economy and overall value may be concerns. The 2020 F-250 Super Duty scores a 7 out of 10 in cost effectiveness. With a starting MSRP that reflected its heavy-duty status, the F-250 offered a broad spectrum of trims and options, allowing for a wide range of price points. Its longevity and potential for long-term use may offer better value over time.