2020 Honda Ridgeline vs 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD had a polarizing design that sparked significant debate. When it first debuted, the Internet was abuzz with criticism, particularly for its exterior aesthetics. The design language, shared with the Camaro and Blazer, was not well-received, leading to a quick redesign for the Camaro in 2020. Despite initial reservations, the Silverado's design began to grow on some reviewers over time. However, the truck's primary focus remained on functionality over form, with a cabin layout that retained familiar controls and a practical design. The Silverado HD offered various trims, from the basic Work Truck to the luxurious High Country, each adding more features and comfort.

In contrast, the 2020 Honda Ridgeline faced its own design challenges. It was often compared to a minivan in the front and a pickup truck in the back, which did not sit well with traditional truck enthusiasts. The second-generation Ridgeline aimed for a more conventional look but perhaps swung too far from its original, unique design. For 2020, Honda introduced several updates, including a new nine-speed automatic transmission and standard Honda Sensing ADAS. The Ridgeline's interior, especially in the RTL-E trim, was praised for its quality materials and comfort, though it closely resembled the Honda Pilot's dashboard, which some found too suburban for a truck.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered two powerful V8 engine options, both displacing 6.6 liters. The standard gas V8 produced 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque, while the optional Duramax turbodiesel V8 delivered 445 horsepower and a massive 910 pound-feet of torque. The diesel engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided impressive towing capabilities, with the 2500HD able to tow up to 18,500 pounds and the 3500HD up to 35,500 pounds with a gooseneck hitch. Despite its power, the diesel engine achieved a respectable 17 mpg during testing, thanks to its 36-gallon fuel tank.

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generated 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission, which had been refined for better shift quality. The Ridgeline offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available on higher trims. The i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction and torque-vectoring capabilities, making the Ridgeline more capable off-road than expected. The Ridgeline's independent rear suspension and multi-purpose platform made it enjoyable to drive on pavement, with a combined fuel economy of 21 mpg. The all-wheel-drive version could tow up to 5,000 pounds and had a maximum payload of 1,580 pounds.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered various bed and cab configurations, including a Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab. The Crew Cab, tested with a standard bed, provided ample interior space with massive cubbies and trays for gear. The power lift-and-lower tailgate, available on higher trims, added convenience. The cabin layout remained largely unchanged from previous models, making it easy for returning customers to find controls. The Silverado's utility was further enhanced by features like CornerSteps and BedSteps, which accommodated large work boots.

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline, on the other hand, combined the comfort and utility of a Honda Pilot with an open cargo bed. The Ridgeline's interior featured comfortable seats, with heated front seats standard on all but the base trim. The rear seat, while short on legroom, was comfortable and offered air conditioning vents. The Ridgeline excelled in in-cab storage, with numerous compartments and a weather-tight storage area under the rear seat. The composite cargo bed included a 7.3 cubic-foot in-bed trunk with a drain plug, a dual-action tailgate, and a power outlet, making it highly versatile for various activities.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD kept technology straightforward, with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system on the Work Truck and Custom trims, and an 8-inch screen on higher trims. Both systems included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a user-friendly layout. The truck featured multiple USB ports and power outlets, with wireless charging available on higher trims. A 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was standard on mid-level and higher trims, providing connectivity for all devices.

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline came with Honda’s Display Audio system, featuring an 8.0-inch touchscreen. While the system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it lacked physical knobs and buttons, making it less user-friendly. Higher trims added features like SiriusXM, HD Radio, navigation, and a premium sound system with a truck-bed audio system. However, the overall user experience was hindered by the system's slow response and reliance on touchscreen controls.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD came with a reversing camera, traction control, and a full array of airbags. Higher trims added advanced safety features like a surround-view camera, forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Safety Alert Seat, which vibrated to alert the driver, was a useful addition. The truck also featured front and rear parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline included Honda Sensing as standard, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims added automatic high-beam headlights, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning. While the systems were generally effective, some, like the lane-departure warning and forward-collision warning, could be overly sensitive. The Ridgeline earned high crash-test ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, making it a safe choice for buyers.