2022 RAM 1500 vs 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD was known for its bold and polarizing exterior design, with a front end that resembled a vintage furnace or freight train. It exuded a sense of machismo, appealing to those who favored a rugged and imposing look. Inside, the Silverado offered a more conventional cabin, prioritizing space over luxury. While the fit and finish might not have been top-notch, the cabin's size was comparable to a living room, providing ample room for passengers. The Silverado 3500HD came in various trims, from the basic Work Truck to the luxurious High Country, each offering a range of features to suit different needs.

In contrast, the 2022 RAM 1500 presented a more refined and contemporary design. It retained some elements of the "big rig" styling but managed to look clean and understated. The Limited trim, in particular, showcased a luxurious interior with high-quality materials and a busy yet elegant design. The cabin exuded quality, with a two-tone color scheme and outstanding construction. The RAM 1500's design was less about making a bold statement and more about offering a sophisticated and comfortable driving experience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD offered two powerful engine options. The standard 6.6-liter V8 gas engine delivered 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 produced 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 3500HD boasted a towing capacity of up to 36,000 pounds when properly equipped. Its payload capacity reached 7,442 pounds, making it a formidable choice for heavy-duty tasks.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered a range of engine options, including a 3.6-liter V6 with a mild-hybrid system, a 5.7-liter V8 with or without eTorque, and the high-performance TRX's supercharged 6.2-liter V8. Our test truck featured the EcoDiesel engine, a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 producing 260 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The EcoDiesel's towing capacity reached up to 12,560 pounds, with our Crew Cab Limited 4WD managing 9,600 pounds. The RAM 1500 excelled in ride quality, thanks to its coil-spring rear suspension and optional air suspension, providing a smooth and comfortable driving experience.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD offered various cab and bed configurations, including regular cab, double cab, and crew cab options. The crew cabs provided spacious seating with ample headroom and legroom, making it suitable for both passengers and cargo. The Silverado featured integrated bed steps for easy access to the cargo area, addressing the challenge of getting into a large vehicle.

The 2022 RAM 1500, particularly in the Limited trim, prioritized comfort and convenience. It featured power-deploying running boards, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The cabin offered practical storage solutions, including a versatile center console and concealed storage bins. The RAM's multi-function tailgate and optional RamBox storage bins added to its functionality, making it a versatile choice for various needs.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with higher trims offering an 8-inch display 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 critical functions.

The 2022 RAM 1500 introduced the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, standard on Big Horn and higher trims. It featured an 8.4-inch or 12-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a range of connected services. The system offered a comprehensive suite of features, though it could be complex to navigate. The RAM 1500 also provided advanced trailering technology, including Trailer Reverse Steering Control and a surround-view camera system.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD offered standard safety features like a backup camera and airbags. However, advanced safety features such as forward collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring were optional. The Silverado's size made features like parking sensors and a 360-degree camera system particularly valuable.

The 2022 RAM 1500 offered a range of driver-assist features, with higher trims available with the Advanced Safety Group and Rebel Safety Group packages. These included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera. The RAM 1500 received high safety ratings, with the IIHS awarding it a Top Safety Pick and the NHTSA giving it a five-star overall rating.