2021 RAM 1500 vs 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD

The 2021 RAM 1500 was a carryover model with no new cosmetic changes since its major redesign in 2019. Configurations remained consistent, offering a mix of quad or crew cab options with varying bed lengths. The TRX model caught significant attention, boasting a commanding presence inspired by off-road rally races. This model featured a functioning hood scoop, massive grille, and fender vents which made it a standout despite its muted style compared to the previous Rebel TRX Concept. The TRX, configured as a crew cab-only 4x4, had dimensions that made it notably larger than other Rams, straddling the line of commercial vehicle territory with identifier lamps to match. Inside, the TRX blended the first-class comfort of the Ram brand with enhanced durability and luxury. It came standard with black premium cloth and vinyl upholstery, with leather and suede options available. The SRT-signature flat-bottom performance steering wheel and a 12-inch Uconnect infotainment display were notable features, contributing to an upscale, tech-savvy cabin.

In contrast, the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD had a polarizing look, likened to a vintage furnace or freight train. The design was all about machismo, and while it could appear unrefined to some, it embodied a rugged toughness. The cabin, however, was more conventional and spacious, accommodating various trim levels from Work Truck (W/T) to the upscale High Country. Standard features on the W/T trim included vinyl seat trim and a 7-inch touchscreen, with the LT trim adding cloth seating and a larger 8-inch screen. The LTZ trim introduced leather upholstery and chrome accents, while the High Country offered additional luxuries like heated and ventilated seats, a Bose sound system, and a spray-in bed-liner. Despite the exterior's brute aesthetics, the Silverado's interior provided an inviting and practical environment, with considerable space and comfort across all configurations.

The RAM 1500 TRX was a beast on and off-road, powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8 engine producing 702 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the TRX could accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds and had a top speed of 118 mph. However, its fuel economy was notably low, at 10 mpg city and 14 highway. The TRX offered a payload capacity of 1,310 pounds and could tow up to 8,100 pounds. Off-road, it excelled, with eight drive modes and unique features like Selec-Speed Control for easy mountain course navigation. The TRX exhibited impressive acceleration and handling, making it not just a performance pickup but a versatile off-road machine.

The Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD came with two potent engine options: a 6.6-liter V8 gas engine with 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque, and a Duramax turbodiesel 6.6-liter V8 engine producing 445 horsepower and 910 pound-feet of torque. The gas engine used a six-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel was paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic. Both engines could be configured with RWD or 4WD, featuring an automatically locking rear differential. The Silverado excelled in towing, capable of hauling up to 36,000 pounds in its max trailering setup. This massive towing capacity, along with a payload capacity of 7,442 pounds, made it a leader in its segment. Its powerful performance and advanced trailering system were major selling points for heavy-duty truck enthusiasts.

The RAM 1500 TRX's design included full-length rock rails and running boards for easier cabin access and body protection. It boasted the same interior dimensions as the standard Ram, offering ample front and rear headroom and legroom. The cabin featured numerous storage nooks, and the TRX Level 2 package provided compliant front seats and powered-adjustable pedals. Compared to rivals, the Ram 1500’s seating position was highly adjustable, providing better comfort for various driver heights.

In terms of configurations, the Silverado 3500HD offered more versatility with regular cab/long-bed, double cab/long-bed, crew cab/standard bed, and crew cab/long-bed options. The crew cabs, in particular, provided vast headroom and legroom, making it suitable for crews and valuable cargo alike. Practical features like bed steps integrated into the rear bumper and additional side steps ahead of the rear wheels made accessing the bed easier.

When it came to payload and towing capacities, the Silverado 3500HD emerged as the superior option. With a payload capacity of 7,442 pounds and a towing capacity of up to 36,000 pounds, it outperformed the RAM 1500 TRX, which had a payload of 1,310 pounds and a maximum tow rating of 8,100 pounds.

All RAM 1500s, including the TRX, came standard with a 12-inch Uconnect 4C infotainment system featuring navigation. The customizable display could be configured into single-panel or split-screen layouts, although it attracted fingerprints and wasn't driver-centric. However, it was tech-savvy, offering wireless charging, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and various USB ports. Performance Pages and Off-Road Pages were unique features providing vehicle stats and off-road accessory gauges. Available conveniences included remote start, keyless entry, and a first-ever HUD for FCA vehicles, providing real-time driving information.

The Silverado 3500HD started with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, upgraded to an 8-inch screen in higher trims, with navigation available in the High Country trim. The system was user-friendly, featuring hard buttons and dials along with a useful home button. The Silverado also offered numerous trailering features, including guidelines for the backup camera and multiple camera angles. An additional trailering app provided a pre-trailering checklist and critical status updates, ensuring safer and easier towing.

The RAM 1500 TRX came with standard safety features like a rear backup camera with dynamic guidelines. However, more advanced safety systems, such as a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and pedestrian detection, were part of optional packages. Other available features included a digital rear-view mirror, adaptive headlights, and numerous ADAS systems.

The Silverado 3500HD also came standard with a backup camera and a full set of airbags. Advanced safety features, such as forward collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring, were optional. Like the RAM, the Silverado offered useful parking sensors and a 360-degree camera system as paid add-ons, which were essential given the truck's large size.