2021 Ford Ranger vs 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
$28,500MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford Ranger
2021 Ford Ranger
$25,070MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
$28,500MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford Ranger
$25,070MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 was 7.2 out of 10, while the 2021 Ford Ranger scored 7.0 out of 10. Given these ratings, our recommendation would lean towards the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. It offers superior towing and payload capacities, a range of powerful engine options, and more comprehensive cargo solutions, making it the more versatile choice for buyers needing a reliable and capable truck.

Overview

MSRP

$28,500

MSRP

$25,070

Average price

$32,658

Average price

$30,457

Listings

4296

Listings

1861
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.2 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.0 out of 10
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Comfortable
Cons
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Poor value for money
Pros
  • Spacious
  • Easy-to-use technology
  • Multiple body styles
Cons
  • Uninspired styling
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Outdated technology

2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Reviews Summary

Full-size pickup trucks are the unofficial vehicles of the United States of America. Bristling with underhood muscle, they tow, they haul, and they look good cruising Main Street as the sun sets on a balmy Friday night.

One of the most popular vehicles in the country, the 2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 follows its 2019 redesign with several updates. It continues waging war against the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 for the hearts and minds of American truck buyers. Highlights of the changes include a new 3.0-liter turbodiesel inline 6-cylinder engine, greater availability of popular powertrains across trim levels, a new bed-view camera, and a camera-based adaptive cruise control system.

While these improvements certainly help to make the 2020 Silverado more appealing, they don’t address this truck’s primary flaws.

Search for a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 on CarGurus

2021 Ford Ranger Reviews Summary

Ford is no stranger to off-roading and has offered FX4 option packages for its pickup trucks for years. The Tremor, however, is relatively new.

Briefly used on a sport-truck version of the 2014 F-150, where the name signaled a regular cab model fortified with Ford’s twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, the Tremor name reappeared on the updated 2020 F-Series Super Duty. Since then, Ford has expanded it to both the 2021 F-150 and 2021 Ranger lineups.

Tremor now signifies a Ford truck with the credentials to tackle difficult terrain. We’re not talking the high-speed, Baja-blasting type of driving for which the F-150 Raptor is purpose-built. We’re talking about low-speed rock crawling.

For the 2021 Ford Ranger, Tremor equipment is one of a handful of changes to the midsize pickup for the model year. Other news includes a new STX Special Edition Package, a Black Package, and minor equipment changes.

No video found
No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

4.3L 285 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle

Engine

2.3L 270 hp I4

Drive Train

4X2

Drive Train

4X2

Seating Capacity

3

Seating Capacity

4

MPG City

16

MPG City

21

MPG Highway

21

MPG Highway

26
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
$28,500MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford Ranger
2021 Ford Ranger
$25,070MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
$28,500MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford Ranger
$25,070MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 was 7.2 out of 10, while the 2021 Ford Ranger scored 7.0 out of 10. Given these ratings, our recommendation would lean towards the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. It offers superior towing and payload capacities, a range of powerful engine options, and more comprehensive cargo solutions, making it the more versatile choice for buyers needing a reliable and capable truck.

Overview
MSRP
$28,500
$25,070
Average price
$32,658
$30,457
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.4
4.8
Expert reviews

7.2 out of 10

Read full review

7.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Comfortable
Cons
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Poor value for money
Pros
  • Spacious
  • Easy-to-use technology
  • Multiple body styles
Cons
  • Uninspired styling
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Outdated technology
Summary

Full-size pickup trucks are the unofficial vehicles of the United States of America. Bristling with underhood muscle, they tow, they haul, and they look good cruising Main Street as the sun sets on a balmy Friday night.

One of the most popular vehicles in the country, the 2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 follows its 2019 redesign with several updates. It continues waging war against the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 for the hearts and minds of American truck buyers. Highlights of the changes include a new 3.0-liter turbodiesel inline 6-cylinder engine, greater availability of popular powertrains across trim levels, a new bed-view camera, and a camera-based adaptive cruise control system.

While these improvements certainly help to make the 2020 Silverado more appealing, they don’t address this truck’s primary flaws.

Search for a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 on CarGurus

Ford is no stranger to off-roading and has offered FX4 option packages for its pickup trucks for years. The Tremor, however, is relatively new.

Briefly used on a sport-truck version of the 2014 F-150, where the name signaled a regular cab model fortified with Ford’s twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, the Tremor name reappeared on the updated 2020 F-Series Super Duty. Since then, Ford has expanded it to both the 2021 F-150 and 2021 Ranger lineups.

Tremor now signifies a Ford truck with the credentials to tackle difficult terrain. We’re not talking the high-speed, Baja-blasting type of driving for which the F-150 Raptor is purpose-built. We’re talking about low-speed rock crawling.

For the 2021 Ford Ranger, Tremor equipment is one of a handful of changes to the midsize pickup for the model year. Other news includes a new STX Special Edition Package, a Black Package, and minor equipment changes.

Video
No video found
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
4.3L 285 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle
2.3L 270 hp I4
Drive Train
4X2
4X2
Seating Capacity
3
4
MPG City
16
21
MPG Highway
21
26
Look and feel
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
7/10
2021 Ford Ranger
8/10

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a wide range of design details that provided each version with a distinctive appearance. Buyers had the option to choose between different grilles, finishes, wheel sizes, styles, and bumper colors. The truck came in Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab styles, with trim levels ranging from the basic WT (Work Truck) to the luxurious High Country. Off-road enthusiasts could opt for the Trail Boss treatment, available on the Custom and LT trims.

Our review focused on the LT Trail Boss, priced at $59,185, inclusive of destination charges. The vehicle featured a 6.2-liter V8 engine and was outfitted with four packages: Midnight Edition, Convenience Package II, Leather Package, and Advanced Trailering Package. With its black paint, black wheels, and blacked-out exterior trim, the test truck had a custom, yet high-maintenance appearance, especially for those intending to use it for muddy off-roading.

The Silverado's exterior styling was generally well-received. However, the interior garnered mixed reviews. The cabin had an industrial look, using silver trim that appeared more plastic than metal, creating a busy and unrefined atmosphere. Even with leather seats, the interior didn't justify the nearly $60,000 price tag. The design lacked the cohesive, modern feel of its competitors.

The 2021 Ford Ranger came in SuperCab (extended cab) and SuperCrew (crew cab) styles, with SuperCabs featuring a six-foot cargo bed and SuperCrews a five-foot bed. The trim levels included XL, XLT, and Lariat, all powered by the same turbo four-cylinder engine and 10-speed automatic transmission, available in either RWD or 4WD configurations.

Our test vehicle was a SuperCrew Lariat with the Tremor Off-Road Package, priced at $46,865, including a $1,195 destination fee. The Tremor package added unique 17-inch dark gray wheels, 32-inch all-terrain tires, red grille accents, tow hooks, hoop-style side steps, and Tremor graphics—all of which gave the truck a more aggressive and purposeful look.

Inside, the Lariat trim and Tremor package offered simulated suede seat inserts, all-weather floor mats, and six upfitter switches atop the dashboard. The clean and contemporary design was a highlight, featuring straightforward radio and climate controls, partial digital instrumentation, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and quality switchgear.

Performance
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
9/10
2021 Ford Ranger
7/10

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a variety of engine and transmission options. A new addition in 2020, the 3.0-liter turbodiesel 6-cylinder, delivered 277 horsepower at 3,750 rpm and 460 pound-feet of torque at 1,500 rpm, boasting an EPA rating of up to 27 mpg on the highway. This engine could add up to $6,705 to the cost, depending on the trim. The Silverado's 6.2-liter V8 engine, available for an additional $2,495, generated an impressive 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque.

The LT Trail Boss came with an off-road package that included Rancho shocks, a 2-inch factory lift, skid plates, and hill descent control. On rugged trails, the Silverado performed impressively, limited only by its size and length. However, on paved roads, the all-terrain tires were noisy, and the steering was slower to respond. Despite this, the test vehicle achieved an average fuel economy of 16.8 mpg.

The 2021 Ford Ranger came exclusively with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This engine produced 270 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 310 pound-feet of torque at 3,000 rpm, making it competitive in its class. The Ranger offered a Terrain Management System with multiple settings, an electronic locking rear differential, and Trail Control for managing low-speed off-roading.

With the Tremor Off-Road Package, the Ranger had updated springs, Fox shocks, and added skid plates, providing 9.7 inches of ground clearance. It could tow up to 7,500 pounds and haul a maximum payload of 1,430 pounds. During testing, it returned a fuel economy of 18.5 mpg. The Ranger's suspension offered a balanced ride on and off-road, and it demonstrated a more refined driving experience compared to other midsize trucks.

Form and function
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
8/10
2021 Ford Ranger
5/10

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, equipped with leather upholstery and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, proved comfortable on long drives. However, the lack of a height adjuster for the front passenger seat was a drawback. The Crew Cab offered ample rear-seat space, and while the seating position was low, the bench seat provided good thigh support. Rear passengers benefitted from USB ports and air conditioning vents.

In terms of storage, the Silverado excelled with dual glove compartments, a large center console bin, sizable door panel bins, and hidden compartments in the rear seatbacks. The Silverado could haul up to 2,250 pounds of payload and tow up to 13,400 pounds, making it a formidable choice for those needing substantial towing capacity. The cargo box design offered more storage room than its competitors.

The 2021 Ford Ranger Tremor featured rugged hoop-style step bars and the SecuriCode keyless entry pad. Inside, the eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and six-way power-adjustable front passenger seat were comfortable and heated, although the driver’s seat could have used more seat track travel. Rear-seat space was generous and comfortable, rivaling the Honda Ridgeline.

Storage solutions in the Ranger included bins under the rear-seat cushion and a decent amount of space for odds and ends, though the single-piece rear-seat cushion was less convenient. The bed offered 43.3 cubic feet of cargo space, increasing to 51.8 cubic feet in SuperCab models. The tailgate was light and easy to handle but lacked damping for a smoother operation. Ford offered numerous accessories for customizing the cargo area.

Technology
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
8/10
2021 Ford Ranger
8/10

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 came with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Chevrolet Connected Access services, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Upgrades included a high-definition display, navigation, SiriusXM 360L, wireless charging, and a Bose premium sound system. The Advanced Trailering Package, with up to 15 different camera views, was a standout feature, although some tech features like the head-up display were missing in our test truck.

The 2021 Ford Ranger Tremor featured the Sync 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen. It included voice recognition, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, SiriusXM, FordPass Connect, Waze and Ford+Alexa integration, and a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system. Voice recognition had inconsistent accuracy, but the system as a whole was user-friendly. Sync 3, while beginning to be phased out in favor of Sync 4, remained competitive in the midsize truck segment.

Safety
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
5/10
2021 Ford Ranger
7/10

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 was equipped with a rear-seat reminder and Teen Driver technologies as standard. However, advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were limited to the LTZ and High Country trims. These included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Silverado received a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and had a Marginal rating from IIHS for front passenger protection in a small overlap frontal impact, with Poor-rated headlights.

The 2021 Ford Ranger came with Ford’s Co-Pilot360 as standard or optional equipment, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise control were also available. The Ranger received a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA, with top scores from IIHS except for an Acceptable rating for front-passenger protection and a Marginal rating for its headlights.

CarGurus logo

By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

Popular vehicle comparisons