Ford F-150 vs Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Updated December 2021 by Savvy Dealer Inc.

The 2020 Ford F-150 and Chevrolet 1500 are two all-American trucks competing for the win. Wondering which tows the most? Or which truck offers more on-road comfort? Which can handle itself best in off-road territory? Our comparison guide has the answers you seek.

Work-Friendly Utility: 2020 Ford F-150

When it comes to towing, the F-150 leads the pack. Depending on how you configure yours, this full-size pickup can tow up to 13,200 pounds. Back in the Silverado 1500, you’ll max out at just 12,200 pounds.

The F-150 also has some exclusive, work-friendly features that highly recommend it. For example, the Trailer Backup Assist system gives you a way to steer a trailer in the desired direction as you back into a parking space.

Off-Road Prowess: 2020 Ford F-150

Not only can you add four-wheel-drive utility to any Ford F-150, but you can also opt into the special F-150 Raptor model. And, if you happen to be looking for all-out, wild-style performance, opting into the Raptor certainly has its benefits.

This truck is meant for the off-road, with all the standard equipment necessary to muck through mud, snow, and riverbeds. That means a special upgraded four-wheel-drive system, Fox shocks, upgraded off-road tires, and a modified long-travel suspension. Best of all, the Raptor features a high-performance version of the F-150’s top engine, a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 engine that makes 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque.

In the Silverado 1500 lineup, you’ll also find an off-road-ready truck, the Custom Trail Boss. It does include standard all-wheel drive and the Z71 off-road suspension package. However, the Custom Trail Boss lacks the Raptor’s power. It features the base engine, a 4.3-liter V6 rated for 285 horses and 305 pound-feet of torque.

Diesel Power: 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The Silverado’s new optional diesel engine is both thriftier and more powerful, giving it the edge when you want to pair towing prowess with maximum fuel economy. This 2.0-liter inline-six turbodiesel engine offers 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque for your towing pleasure. But it also earns up to 27 mpg combined (23 city/33 highway mpg).

The F-150 also offers a new diesel engine, and there’s a lot to like about it – including the fact that it blends strong towing power with fuel-efficiency. Compared to the Silverado’s diesel engine, though, Ford’s 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 is slightly less powerful, offering 250 horses and 440 pound-feet of torque. EPA ratings for this engine haven’t been released yet, but Ford estimates that it’ll earn up to 30 mpg on the highway.

Comfort and Style: 2020 Ford F-150

Both the 2020 Ford F-150 and the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 have a lot to offer by way of luxury. As you climb each truck’s trim models, you’ll find all the high-end goodies, from leather upholstery to stylish wood trim.

However, the F-150 offers one main advantage: plusher seating. Compared to the Silverado 1500, Ford’s full-size truck keeps you comfier longer. That’s especially true if you select the F-150’s optional front multicontour seats, which can cool you off, heat you up, or even give you a massage.

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 does have the edge in the diesel department, but the 2020 Ford F-150 has the advantage everywhere else. Choose Ford’s best selling full-size truck for modern style, off-road capabilities, and all-out towing and hauling capabilities.