2021 Toyota Tacoma vs 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is 6.8 out of 10, while the 2021 Toyota Tacoma scores 6.5 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is the recommended choice, offering superior towing and payload capacities, a more spacious interior, and advanced camera technology.
Choose the 2021 Toyota Tacoma if:
- You seek a midsize truck with strong off-road capabilities.
- You want a vehicle with a functional and easy-to-navigate infotainment system.
- You prioritize standard driver-assist features for enhanced safety.
Choose the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD if:
- You need a truck with high towing and payload capacities.
- You prefer a spacious and comfortable interior with multiple seating configurations.
- You value advanced camera technology for better visibility and maneuvering.
Overview | |
MSRP$35,300 | MSRP$26,400 |
Average price$44,794 | Average price$34,161 |
Listings860 | Listings3843 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews6.8 out of 10 | Expert reviews6.5 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
|
2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Reviews SummaryThe 2021 Chevrolet Silverado HD is plenty capable but its interior design keeps it from being a standout in the segment. Still, the Silverado 2500HD has a number of redeeming qualities that make it worthy of consideration, from comfortable accommodations to innovative camera technology. | |
2021 Toyota Tacoma Reviews SummaryLast redesigned for the 2016 model year, The Tacoma once dominated midsize-truck sales. In recent years, though, it’s faced stronger competition from the Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon twins, the Ford Ranger, and the Jeep Gladiator. A redesigned Nissan Frontier and heavily-updated Honda Ridgeline are also on the way. Meanwhile, the Tacoma enters the 2021 model year largely unchanged. The only updates are two new special editions—the Nightshade Edition and Trail Special Edition—and standard dual-zone automatic climate control on all V6 models. Pickup truck buyers tend to want choices, and Toyota delivers. The Tacoma is available with four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, Access Cab and four-door Double Cab body styles, rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), and six trim levels— SR, SR5, TRD Off Road, TRD Sport, Limited, and TRD Pro—plus the two special editions. Our test vehicle was a Tacoma TRD Pro Double Cab. The TRD Pro is the most off-road focused of the Tacoma models, so naturally, it gets standard 4WD drive. While Toyota does offer a more comfort-oriented Tacoma Limited model, the TRD Pro is also positioned at the top of the lineup. | |
No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine | Engine2.7L 159 hp I4 |
Drive Train | Drive Train4X2 |
Seating Capacity3 | Seating Capacity4 |
Horsepower | Horsepower159 hp @ 5200 rpm |
MPG City | MPG City20 |
MPG Highway | MPG Highway23 |
Engine | |
Engine Name6.6L 401 hp V8 | Engine Name2.7L 159 hp I4 |
Torque464 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | Torque180 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm |
Horsepower401 hp @ 5200 rpm | Horsepower159 hp @ 5200 rpm |
Drivetrain4X2 | Drivetrain4X2 |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City | MPG City20 |
MPG Highway | MPG Highway23 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity3 | Seating Capacity4 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Bed Length98.3 in | Bed Length73.7 in |
Curb Weight6105 lbs | Curb Weight3915 lbs |
Height79.9 in | Height70.6 in |
Length235.5 in | Length212.3 in |
Width81.8 in | Width74.4 in |
Wheelbase141.6 in | Wheelbase127.4 in |
Maximum Payload3857 lbs | Maximum Payload1685 lbs |
Number of doors2 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity18510 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity3500 lbs |
Standard Towing Capacity14500 lbs | Standard Towing Capacity |
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is 6.8 out of 10, while the 2021 Toyota Tacoma scores 6.5 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is the recommended choice, offering superior towing and payload capacities, a more spacious interior, and advanced camera technology.
Choose the 2021 Toyota Tacoma if:
Shop Now- You seek a midsize truck with strong off-road capabilities.
- You want a vehicle with a functional and easy-to-navigate infotainment system.
- You prioritize standard driver-assist features for enhanced safety.
Choose the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD if:
Shop Now- You need a truck with high towing and payload capacities.
- You prefer a spacious and comfortable interior with multiple seating configurations.
- You value advanced camera technology for better visibility and maneuvering.
Overview | ||
MSRP | $35,300 | $26,400 |
Average price | $44,794 | $34,161 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | 4.4 | 4.8 |
Expert reviews | 6.8 out of 10Read full review | 6.5 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
Summary | The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado HD is plenty capable but its interior design keeps it from being a standout in the segment. Still, the Silverado 2500HD has a number of redeeming qualities that make it worthy of consideration, from comfortable accommodations to innovative camera technology. | Last redesigned for the 2016 model year, The Tacoma once dominated midsize-truck sales. In recent years, though, it’s faced stronger competition from the Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon twins, the Ford Ranger, and the Jeep Gladiator. A redesigned Nissan Frontier and heavily-updated Honda Ridgeline are also on the way. Meanwhile, the Tacoma enters the 2021 model year largely unchanged. The only updates are two new special editions—the Nightshade Edition and Trail Special Edition—and standard dual-zone automatic climate control on all V6 models. Pickup truck buyers tend to want choices, and Toyota delivers. The Tacoma is available with four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, Access Cab and four-door Double Cab body styles, rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), and six trim levels— SR, SR5, TRD Off Road, TRD Sport, Limited, and TRD Pro—plus the two special editions. Our test vehicle was a Tacoma TRD Pro Double Cab. The TRD Pro is the most off-road focused of the Tacoma models, so naturally, it gets standard 4WD drive. While Toyota does offer a more comfort-oriented Tacoma Limited model, the TRD Pro is also positioned at the top of the lineup. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.7L 159 hp I4 | |
Drive Train | 4X2 | |
Seating Capacity | 3 | 4 |
Horsepower | 159 hp @ 5200 rpm | |
MPG City | 20 | |
MPG Highway | 23 | |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 6.6L 401 hp V8 | 2.7L 159 hp I4 |
Torque | 464 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | 180 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm |
Horsepower | 401 hp @ 5200 rpm | 159 hp @ 5200 rpm |
Drivetrain | 4X2 | 4X2 |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 20 | |
MPG Highway | 23 | |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 3 | 4 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Bed Length | 98.3 in | 73.7 in |
Curb Weight | 6105 lbs | 3915 lbs |
Height | 79.9 in | 70.6 in |
Length | 235.5 in | 212.3 in |
Width | 81.8 in | 74.4 in |
Wheelbase | 141.6 in | 127.4 in |
Maximum Payload | 3857 lbs | 1685 lbs |
Number of doors | 2 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 18510 lbs | 3500 lbs |
Standard Towing Capacity | 14500 lbs | |
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD was a towering presence, with its hood nearly reaching the height of an average American woman. Redesigned in 2020, the 2021 model introduced new special editions, advanced camera technology, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Available in various body styles, trims, and bed lengths, the Silverado 2500HD offered a range of options, including the Work Truck, Custom, LT, LTZ, and High Country grades. Special editions like the LTZ Premium Texas Edition and Midnight Edition added to its appeal. The truck featured high-strength steel beds, 17- to 20-inch wheels, and integrated BedSteps and CornerSteps for easier access. Despite its rugged capabilities, the Silverado's exterior design leaned more towards a toy-like appearance rather than sophisticated worksite chic.
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma embodied the quintessential truck look with its boxy fender flares, tall hood, and shield-like grille. The new Trail Edition featured 16-inch TRD Off-Road alloy wheels and a unique grille, while the Nightshade Edition boasted blacked-out trim. The TRD Pro model stood out with its exclusive Lunar Rock color, blacked-out hood, and Rigid Industries LED fog lights. Built on a body-on-frame construction, the Tacoma offered Access Cab and Double Cab options, with varying wheelbases and bed lengths. The interior mirrored the rugged exterior, with durable materials suitable for off-road adventures. However, the TRD Pro's high price tag and focus on off-roading rather than luxury made it less appealing for those seeking a more refined experience.
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered two engine choices: a 6.6-liter V8 gasoline engine producing 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and a 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel engine delivering 445 hp and 910 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed Allison automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with four-wheel drive available. The gasoline engine had a maximum payload of 3,979 pounds (RWD) and 3,965 pounds (4WD), while the diesel engine had a 3,715-pound maximum payload. Towing capacities were impressive, with the gas engine capable of 14,500 pounds (conventional) and 17,370 pounds (fifth wheel/gooseneck), and the diesel engine pulling 18,500 pounds. The diesel engine provided smoother acceleration and better towing performance, making it the preferred choice for heavy-duty tasks. Fuel economy figures were not provided, but the Silverado HD excelled in highway cruising and maneuverability.
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma offered two powertrain options: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. The four-cylinder engine came with a six-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 was available with both an automatic and a six-speed manual transmission. The optional part-time 4WD drivetrain featured low range and an electronic rear limited-slip differential. The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models enhanced off-road capabilities with features like upgraded suspension, Multi-Terrain Select drive modes, and Crawl Control. The TRD Pro added Fox shocks, a front lift, and wider wheels. The Tacoma's maximum towing capacity was 6,800 pounds, and its maximum payload capacity was 1,685 pounds. However, these figures varied depending on the configuration. The Tacoma's off-road prowess was commendable, but its on-road performance was less impressive, with slow acceleration and poor ride quality.
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD provided a spacious and comfortable interior, with ample headroom and seating for three adults across the cab. The Crew Cab version offered the most rear seat legroom. Standard features included a 40/20/40 split-bench seat, vinyl or cloth upholstery, and a power-sliding rear window with defogger. Higher trims added bucket seats, a center console, and 10-way power-adjustable front seats. Assist handles, manual windows, a rubberized floor, and single-zone climate control were standard. Upper trims approached GMC's premium territory, with carpeted floor mats and softer-touch surfaces becoming available.
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab struggled with interior space, offering the worst rear headroom and legroom in the segment. Front headroom and legroom were also below average, creating a bunker-like feel. The rear seats folded up to reveal storage cubbies, but other in-cab storage was limited. The Tacoma included a wireless charging pad and numerous cupholders around the center console. The bed featured a standard rail system with tie-down cleats and an available 120-volt outlet. The inner bed was made from sheet-molded composite, a lightweight and rust-resistant alternative to steel.
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD came standard with a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen running the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, two USB ports, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was generally user-friendly but had issues with station scrolling. Additional standard features included a 12-volt front power outlet, a two-speaker audio system, a 3.5-inch driver information display, Bluetooth, and Chevrolet Connected Access. Available features included a 120-volt power outlet, WiFi hot spot, an 8-inch driver information screen, bed view camera, Bose audio system, 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, keyless entry, rear camera mirror, remote start, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Chevrolet's camera technology was a standout, with a bed-view camera added to lower trims.
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma SR trim level featured a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims received an 8-inch touchscreen. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. A six-speaker JBL audio system with a subwoofer was available on higher trims. The infotainment system was functional and easy to navigate, with responsive touchscreens and helpful shortcut buttons. However, the graphics were plain, and the system lacked advanced features beyond basic functions. The TRD Pro model included the Multi-Terrain Monitor surround-view camera system, useful for off-road and parking maneuvers.
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD was not crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included six airbags, a rearview camera, Teen Driver software, electronic stability control with traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. The Safety Confidence Package, available on Work Truck and Custom models, added forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, steering-wheel audio controls, a 4.2-inch driver information screen, and cruise control. Additional available safety features included front and rear park assist, lane-departure warning, OnStar, rear-seat reminder, high-beam assist, and following distance indicator.
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab received top "Good" scores in most IIHS crash tests, with an "Acceptable" score in the passenger-side small overlap front test. Headlights received mixed ratings, but the Tacoma earned a "Superior" rating for front-crash prevention tech. The NHTSA gave both Access Cab and Double Cab configurations a four-star overall rating, with four stars in frontal and rollover crash tests, and five stars in side crash tests. Standard driver-assist features included forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. The Ford Ranger offered additional features like lane-keep assist and blind-spot monitoring.
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