2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD vs 2020 RAM 2500

When assessing the aesthetic appeal of the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, opinions varied widely. The truck’s debut had sparked significant debate, with the Internet buzzing with comments when the Silverado 1500 and its larger sibling, the 2500HD, were introduced. Many felt the design was far from attractive, drawing comparisons to the controversial Chevrolet design language seen in models like the Camaro and Blazer. Interestingly, Chevrolet had to revise the Camaro's design just a year after its 2019 redesign, indicating that public reception was not favorable. Despite spending a week with the Silverado 2500HD, any appreciation for its exterior design was minimal. Critics argued that good design should be instantly appealing rather than one that grows on you like a piece of modern art.

However, the Silverado was built for function over form. The focus on utility was evident in the work-oriented design of the truck. When it came to the cabin, Chevrolet opted for a semblance of familiarity, retaining much of the interior design from previous models. All the essential controls, including vents, dials, buttons, and screens, remained in similar locations. A standout feature was the retention of the traditional column shifter, which many truck enthusiasts believe is essential for a work truck. The choice to stick with familiar, well-placed controls was seen as a positive aspect by those who prioritize practicality in their vehicles.

Trim levels for the Silverado HD included Work Truck, Custom, LT, LTZ, and High Country. Even the base Work Truck trim came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, a V8 engine, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 3.5-inch digital instrument display. On the higher end, the LTZ trim equipped with the Z71 Off-Road package featured leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote start. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, the High Country trim offered features like a spray-on bed liner, front and rear park assist, and a power up-and-down tailgate.

In stark contrast, the 2020 RAM 2500 was perceived as offering a more elegant and upscale design compared to its competitors. The RAM 2500 exhibited a refined aesthetic, combining chrome accents with sleek, appropriately proportioned LED headlights. The elongated and widened design of the RAM 2500 preserved the family resemblance to the smaller RAM 1500, exuding a car-like demeanor with its rounded edges and smooth body panels. The chrome wheels and LED taillights on the Limited test truck added to its visual appeal, making it stand out in the heavy-duty truck segment.

Inside, the RAM 2500’s cabin was a testament to luxury and craftsmanship. Upper trims like the Laramie Longhorn and Limited were noted for their astounding interior quality. Premium materials, such as soft-grained perforated leather, light wood trim with intricate inlays, and aluminum speaker covers, adorned the cabin. The attention to detail extended to features like the grab handles and shifter knob, contributing to an overall impression of a high-end vehicle. With ample space and luxurious touches throughout, the RAM 2500's interior was likened to that of a Mercedes-Benz, setting it apart from its competitors.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered two powerful V8 engine options. The standard gas V8 produced 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque, while the optional Duramax turbodiesel V8 churned out 445 horsepower and a staggering 910 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered the choice between rear-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive with low-range gearing. The diesel engine, despite a delayed throttle response, delivered impressive power, perfect for towing and hauling heavy loads. When properly equipped, the Silverado 2500HD boasted a towing capacity of up to 18,500 pounds, with the potential to tow 35,500 pounds using a gooseneck hitch when configured as a 3500HD model. Observed fuel consumption stood at approximately 17 mpg, a noteworthy figure for a heavy-duty truck.

In comparison, the RAM 2500 provided options between a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 and a 6.7-liter Cummins inline-six turbo diesel. The Hemi V8 generated 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, offering a smooth and powerful driving experience. With the V8, the RAM 2500 could manage a payload of up to 4,380 pounds and tow up to 17,350 pounds. The diesel option, delivering 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque, enabled the RAM 2500 to tow up to 19,780 pounds and handle a payload of 3,060 pounds. Notable features included an exhaust brake system that improved braking performance and extended brake life, enhancing safety during heavy towing operations. Fuel efficiency for the diesel model was impressive, averaging close to 19 mpg over 515 highway miles.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered a variety of configurations, including a Regular Cab with a long bed, an extended Double Cab with standard or long bed options, and a full 4-door Crew Cab with standard or long bed choices. The test vehicle was a Crew Cab with a standard bed, providing ample interior space. CornerSteps and BedSteps were practical additions, designed to accommodate work boots. The power lift-and-lower tailgate, available on higher trims, could be controlled via key fob or cabin button, adding convenience for loading and unloading the bed. The cabin of the Crew Cab variant was spacious, with ample storage options, including a large center console bin and hidden cubbies in the rear seatbacks. The flat load floor with additional gear trays behind the rear seats enhanced the truck’s utility.

In contrast, the RAM 2500 offered three cab choices and two bed lengths. Single cabs paired with either an 8-foot or 6-foot-4-inch bed were available for the base Tradesman and Big Horn trims. All other trims featured a four-door Crew Cab with either bed option, and the Mega Cab exclusively offered ultimate luxury with reclining rear seats and substantial rear space. The Power Wagon trim was available as a Crew Cab with a short bed. The RAM 2500 also featured power running boards and a retractable tailgate step, aiding ease of access due to the truck’s height. The Crew Cab provided generous cabin space, with adjustable outer convex mirrors and a power tailgate. Optional features like the spray-in bed liner, LED lighting, and air suspension with adjustable trailer hitch height further enhanced functionality. The RAM 2500’s cargo capacity and towing capabilities were complemented by practical details such as power and brake connections, a 220-amp alternator, and the option for dual alternators for high-capacity needs.

The Silverado 2500HD offered technology with a focus on practicality. Base trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims like the LT, LTZ, and High Country came with a larger 8-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system had a user-friendly layout with large icons and a home-button bar, although some icons on the bottom dock were smaller, making them harder to press while driving. Multiple USB ports and power outlets, along with a wireless charging pad (standard on High Country), catered to connectivity needs. The inclusion of a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot on the LT trim and above provided additional convenience.

Conversely, the RAM 2500 started with a 5-inch touchscreen but offered an 8.4-inch Uconnect system that was praised for its responsiveness and clarity. The 12-inch display option, however, set a new standard. With the ability to split the screen for dual functions, control multiple settings effortlessly, and utilize 360-degree cameras, the larger display was highly functional. It included two rear-view cameras for hitch and cargo monitoring, and options to adjust the display for better visibility on either side of the truck. The 12-inch screen in the RAM 2500 provided an unparalleled infotainment experience, unmatched by any other truck in its class.

The Silverado 2500HD came with essential safety features, including a reversing camera, traction control, and multiple airbags. The LTZ trim offered a surround-view camera with trailer views, and the available Safety Package II added forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Safety Alert Seat, which vibrated to alert drivers to safety messages was a noteworthy feature. The Safety Package I, which included front and rear parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring, was nearly essential for maneuvering in tight spaces.

The 2020 RAM 2500 had optional safety features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and forward emergency braking that worked with trailers. Although not rated by NHTSA or IIHS, the RAM 1500 received high safety ratings, which could be indicative of the RAM 2500’s robust safety standards. The RAM 1500 scored 5 out of 5 stars overall from NHTSA and earned the Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS, setting a high safety benchmark for the RAM 2500 to follow.