2019 Ford Ranger vs 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD

The 2019 Ford Ranger returned as a midsize pickup, closely matching the dimensions of its larger sibling, the F-150. It boasted a 7,500-pound towing capacity and a 1,860-pound maximum payload, nearly rivaling the V6 F-150. This was achieved through its 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Ford made specific augmentations for the American market, including tighter panel gaps and fortified frames for solid steel bumper mounts. The Ranger's pricing started at $24,300, with the base XL trim offering essential features like a rear-view camera and forward-collision warning. Upgrading to the XLT or Lariat trims added more luxury and tech options, such as the Ford Sync3 system, leather upholstery, and advanced safety packages.

In contrast, the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD had a polarizing exterior design, part of the same family as the Camaro and Blazer. Despite initial criticism, the design grew on some over time. The Silverado prioritized function over form, with a largely unchanged cabin layout that retained familiar controls. Trims ranged from the basic Work Truck to the luxurious High Country. The LTZ trim, which was tested, featured leather upholstery, heated and cooled seats, and a heated steering wheel. The High Country trim added even more features, including a spray-on bed liner and power up-and-down tailgate.

The 2019 Ford Ranger featured a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, previously seen in the Focus RS and Mustang, modified for truck duty. Paired with a 10-speed transmission, the engine produced 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The Ranger achieved an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined, with 21 city and 26 highway. It could accelerate to 60 mph in under 7 seconds, with some tests showing closer to the low 6-second range. However, the steering and braking were somewhat numb, and the suspension, optimized for on-road duty, felt floaty over uneven surfaces. The Ranger struggled with off-road excursions due to limited suspension articulation.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered two 6.6-liter V8 engine options: a gas V8 with 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque, and a Duramax turbodiesel V8 with 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The diesel engine provided a massive swell of power, enabling the Silverado 2500HD to tow up to 18,500 pounds. The Silverado 3500HD could tow up to 20,000 pounds conventionally and 35,500 pounds with a gooseneck hitch. During a week of driving, the Silverado achieved around 17 mpg, impressive for a heavy-duty truck with a 36-gallon tank.

The 2019 Ford Ranger offered versatility, from an ultra-affordable base model to more luxurious trims. However, it couldn't handle everything, particularly off-roading, where the Tacoma was a better option. The SuperCab configuration was limited in rear seat space, suitable only for luggage or small pets. The softer suspension caused discomfort on less-than-pristine roads, making longer test drives advisable.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD came in various bed and cab configurations, including a Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab. The Crew Cab, tested, offered a spacious cabin with massive cubbies and trays for gear. The center console bin was large, and the rear seats folded up to reveal a flat load floor and additional storage. The Silverado featured Chevrolet's CornerSteps and BedSteps, designed to accommodate work boots, and a power lift-and-lower tailgate, operable from the key fob or cabin button.

The 2019 Ford Ranger's base XL trim included a rear-view camera, USB port, Aux jack, and forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking. Higher trims could be outfitted with the Sync3 system, 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, and an optional Bang & Olufsen stereo. The available safety systems provided near-Level 2 autonomy.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD excelled in technology restraint, with a straightforward infotainment system. The Work Truck and Custom trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims, like the LT, LTZ, and High Country, came with an 8-inch touchscreen. The truck had multiple USB ports and power outlets, with a wireless charging pad standard on the High Country and optional on the LTZ. Chevrolet also offered a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot on higher trims.

Test data for the 2019 Ford Ranger was unavailable from NHTSA or IIHS. There was one recall affecting 3,500 vehicles due to an improper installation of the wiring sub-harness for the shifter, potentially causing the vehicle to shift out of Park even when off.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD came with a reversing camera, traction control, and a full array of airbags. The LTZ trim included a surround-view camera with trailer views and the Safety Package II, which added forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Safety Package I, also included, featured front and rear parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring. The truck's large side mirrors with integrated wide-angle mirrors made driving more manageable.