2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD vs 2021 Toyota Tundra

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 connectivity options. Chevrolet offered a wide variety of body styles, trim levels, and bed lengths, emphasizing versatility. The Silverado 2500HD featured high-strength steel beds and a range of wheel options, but its exterior design was less sophisticated compared to its counterparts. Despite its impressive capabilities, accessing the high bed could be challenging for shorter individuals.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Tundra had an awkward appearance with a massive grille and small headlights. Developed in the mid-2000s, its design seemed oversized in some ways. The Tundra's cabin was dated but functional, with easy-to-reach controls. Toyota updated the infotainment system in 2020, adding essential features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Tundra offered various trim levels, each with unique features, and the CrewMax version provided ample rear legroom. The Nightshade Edition added darkened exterior touches, enhancing its modern appeal.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered a choice between a 6.6-liter V8 gasoline engine producing 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque, and a 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel engine with 445 horsepower and 910 pound-feet of torque. The diesel engine, paired with a 10-speed Allison automatic transmission, provided smoother acceleration and better towing capabilities, with a maximum towing capacity of 18,500 pounds. The gasoline engine, with a six-speed automatic transmission, had a maximum payload of 3,979 pounds. The Silverado 2500HD came standard with rear-wheel drive, with four-wheel drive available.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra featured a 5.7-liter V8 engine, producing 391 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Tundra's towing capacity was 10,200 pounds, and it had a payload capacity of 1,730 pounds. The V8 engine provided strong acceleration, and the truck was comfortable on various surfaces. The Tundra's steering was vague at low speeds but settled on the highway, where it excelled in cruising.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD offered a spacious interior with ample headroom and seating for three adults across the cab. The Crew Cab version provided generous rear legroom. Standard features included a 40/20/40 split-bench seat, vinyl or cloth upholstery, and a power-sliding rear window. Higher trims offered bucket seats and more luxurious features, though competitors like Ford and Ram provided more upscale interiors.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra came in two cab sizes and three bed sizes. The CrewMax version offered massive rear legroom, and the rear seats folded up for additional cargo space. The front seats had plenty of room, with a large center console and multiple storage options. The optional power rear window provided excellent visibility and ventilation, enhancing the Tundra's practicality.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD featured a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen with Chevrolet Infotainment 3, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system had some usability issues, particularly when browsing radio stations. Standard features included a 12-volt power outlet, Bluetooth, and a 3.5-inch driver information display. Available upgrades included a Bose audio system, an 8-inch touchscreen, and advanced camera technology.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra's infotainment system was updated in 2020, featuring a 7-inch or optional 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The system was user-friendly, with hard buttons for easy operation. The Tundra came standard with multiple USB ports, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot trial. The available JBL premium audio system offered 12 speakers for enhanced sound quality.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD was equipped with six airbags, a rearview camera, Teen Driver software, and electronic stability control. Optional safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. However, the Silverado 2500HD was not crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS due to its heavy-duty classification.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra came standard with Toyota Safety Sense P, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Tundra also had eight airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, and trailer sway control.