2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vs 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty

Pickup truck enthusiasts often show fierce brand loyalty, making their choice of truck a personal statement. The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 brings new design and features, maintaining Chevy's strong reputation and giving fans a reason to upgrade. Meanwhile, the 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty caters to a broad spectrum of uses, from heavy-duty work requirements to luxury commuting, featuring a variety of trims and the latest technology. This article dives deep into comparing these two models to help you decide which truck best fits your lifestyle.

The performance ratings differ significantly between the two, with the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 earning a 6 out of 10 and the 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty a 9 out of 10 from CarGurus experts. The Silverado offers a range of engines, including a new turbocharged 2.7-liter 4-cylinder and a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder diesel, aiming to provide a balance of power and efficiency. However, real-world fuel economy and occasional transmission issues have marred its performance reputation. The Ford F-350's array of powerful engines, including a new 7.3-liter V8 and a 6.7-liter turbodiesel, delivers exceptional performance and towing capacity, outmatching the Silverado by a significant margin. With its ability to tow up to 37,000 pounds when properly equipped, the F-350 is a powerhouse suited for the most demanding tasks. The addition of the Tremor off-road package also enhances its versatility and off-road capability.

When it comes to the practical capabilities of full-size trucks, the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and the 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty showcase their strengths in slightly different arenas, each catering to its target audience with a focus on towing capacity, payload, and utility features. The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, rated 7 out of 10 by CarGurus experts, emphasizes a blend of everyday utility with considerable towing power. It boasts a maximum towing capacity of 12,200 pounds, which, while impressive, falls short of the heavy-duty expectations set by its main competitors. Its payload capacity peaks at 2,250 pounds, closely rivaling other light-duty pickups but still slightly behind the top performers in its class. Chevrolet counters these figures with the Durabed feature, highlighting a cargo box designed for durability and increased volume, offering up to 20% more total volume than its closest competitors. This focus on practical, user-friendly features is evident in the inclusion of 12 tie-down hooks and larger bumper corner steps, designed to accommodate steel-toed boots, enhancing the overall utility of the truck. On the other hand, the 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty excels with a perfect score of 10 out of 10 in this category, thanks to its unmatched capability and versatility. The Super Duty is designed to handle the most demanding tasks with ease, offering a conventional towing capacity of 24,200 pounds and an extraordinary fifth-wheel towing capacity of up to 32,500 pounds. Its prowess extends to a gooseneck trailer capacity of 37,000 pounds, setting a high bar for heavy-duty performance. The payload is equally impressive, with a maximum capacity of up to 7,850 pounds, showcasing the F-350's ability to carry heavy loads without compromise. Ford provides a range of cab and bed configurations, including the practicality of an 8-foot bed available in both single-rear and dual-rear-wheel (dually) setups, catering to a wide array of professional and personal hauling needs. The inclusion of a tailgate step further emphasizes Ford's commitment to functionality, making it easier to load and unload cargo. In summary, while the Silverado 1500 offers commendable towing and payload capabilities with a focus on everyday utility and comfort, the F-350 Super Duty stands out for those requiring unparalleled towing capacity, payload, and functional versatility in their workhorse. The choice between these trucks ultimately depends on the specific needs and priorities of the buyer, whether it's for light-duty personal use or heavy-duty professional tasks.

Technology is another area where these trucks diverge. The 2019 Silverado 1500 receives a 9 out of 10 for its advanced tech features, including a high-definition reversing camera and the next-generation Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system. These enhancements provide drivers with a more intuitive and connected driving experience. The 2020 F-350's SYNC 3 infotainment system scores an 8 out of 10, offering robust functionality and smartphone integration but lacking the latest advancements found in newer models. Ford compensates with advanced towing technology, making trailer management more accessible and safer for drivers of all skill levels.

Safety ratings favor the Ford, with the 2020 F-350 Super Duty scoring a 9 out of 10, thanks to its comprehensive suite of standard and available safety features across trim levels. The addition of features like Pro Trailer Backup Assist and adaptive steering on higher trims enhances both safety and convenience. The 2019 Silverado 1500 earns an 8 out of 10, introducing improved safety features like pedestrian braking and blind-spot monitoring.

Cost-effectiveness ratings reflect the value each truck offers, with the 2019 Silverado 1500 scoring a 6 out of 10 and the 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty a 7 out of 10. The Silverado's higher-end trims can become quite expensive without matching the towing and hauling capabilities of its rivals. The Ford F-350, despite its potentially high price tag in luxury trims, offers a range of options to meet both work and luxury needs without compromising on power or functionality.