2021 Jeep Gladiator vs 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD was known for its bold and polarizing exterior design, which some likened to a vintage furnace or a freight train. Its imposing front end and grille exuded a sense of machismo, appealing to those who favored a rugged and robust appearance. Inside, the Silverado offered a more conventional cabin, prioritizing space over luxury. Despite not having the best fit and finish, its roomy interior, akin to a living room, provided ample space for passengers and cargo. The Silverado 3500HD came in various trims, from the basic Work Truck (W/T) to the luxurious High Country, each offering a range of features from basic USB ports and vinyl seats to premium sound systems and leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator was a unique blend of a Wrangler and a pickup truck, resulting in a distinctive appearance that took some getting used to. Its tall, narrow, and long design, combined with Wrangler-based bodywork, initially caused cognitive dissonance. However, driving the Gladiator, especially off-road, revealed its true charm. The Gladiator offered several special editions, including the rugged Willys and the luxurious High Altitude, each with unique features and styling. The interior, while not the most spacious, was functional and durable, designed for adventure rather than comfort. The Gladiator's cabin mirrored the Wrangler's, with practical storage solutions and Jeep's signature Easter eggs adding to its appeal.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD offered two powerful engine options. The standard 6.6-liter V8 gas engine produced 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. For those seeking more power, the optional Duramax turbodiesel 6.6-liter V8 delivered 445 horsepower and an impressive 910 pound-feet of torque, mated to an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission. Both engines could be configured with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, and the Silverado boasted a maximum towing capacity of 36,000 pounds when properly equipped. Its payload capacity reached up to 7,442 pounds, making it a formidable choice for heavy-duty tasks.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator introduced a new 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6 engine option, producing 260 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. This engine offered better fuel economy than the standard 3.6-liter gasoline V6, which returned 20.3 mpg in highway driving. The Gladiator's towing capacity varied, with the Sport trim capable of towing up to 7,650 pounds with the standard engine. The diesel engine, while offering substantial low-end torque, had a lower towing capacity due to cooling restrictions. Off-road, the diesel-powered Gladiator excelled, with its torque making it ideal for tackling challenging trails. However, on paved roads, the Gladiator's ride was stiff, and its steering was less precise, adding to its rugged charm.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD was available in multiple configurations, including regular cab, double cab, and crew cab, each offering varying bed lengths. The crew cab models provided two rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for passengers. The Silverado featured integrated bed steps and additional step-ups along the side of the bed, making it easier to access the cargo area. These practical design elements enhanced the truck's functionality, catering to those who needed a versatile and capable workhorse.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator, while not focused on comfort, offered agreeable seating with proper support. However, its small door openings and snug seating positions required some adjustment. The Gladiator's interior storage included netting on door panels, a small center console bin, and a locking storage bin under the rear seat. Its 5-foot steel cargo box provided 35.5 cubic feet of cargo space, with an adjustable tailgate for accommodating larger items. Despite its compact size, the Gladiator's cargo area was versatile, with available accessories like a spray-in bedliner and tonneau covers enhancing its utility.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with higher trims offering an 8-inch screen and navigation. The system was user-friendly, featuring hard buttons and dials for easy operation. The Silverado also offered advanced trailering features, including multiple camera angles and a trailering app for monitoring trailer functions, making it a practical choice for those who frequently tow.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator, while maintaining its rugged roots, offered modern technology through its infotainment system. The standard Uconnect 3 system included a 5-inch display, but upgrading to the Uconnect 4 system with a 7-inch touchscreen added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The top-tier Uconnect 4C system featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen with navigation, SiriusXM Guardian services, and an Alpine premium sound system. Despite some aging technology, the system remained intuitive, and the forward-facing Trail Cam was a valuable addition for off-road enthusiasts.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD came standard with a backup camera and a full array of airbags. However, advanced safety features like forward collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring were optional. Additional features such as parking sensors and a 360-degree camera system were also available, enhancing safety for this large vehicle.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator offered basic safety features, including a reversing camera. Depending on the trim, advanced driving assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring were available. The Gladiator received a four-star frontal-impact rating from the NHTSA, with a three-star rollover resistance rating, reflecting its rugged design.