2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vs 2020 Ford Ranger

The 2020 Ford Ranger marked its return to the North American market with a design heavily influenced by its international version. This iteration was larger and more sophisticated than its predecessor, aligning with the F-Series lineup through similar grille styling. However, it avoided the "bigger-and-blockier" trend seen in American trucks, opting instead for a clean, aggressive appearance that highlighted its sporty and capable nature. Inside, the Ranger featured a function-first cabin with hard plastics, which, while durable, gave it a low-rent feel compared to competitors like the Jeep Gladiator and Honda Ridgeline. The Ranger was available in three trims: XL, XLT, and Lariat, each offering varying levels of features and comfort.

In contrast, the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 presented a commanding presence with its boxy, chiseled design, flared fenders, and a blunt nose. The Northsky Blue paint and chrome trim added to its constellation-like appearance. However, the interior did not match the exterior's appeal, with a cabin that felt outdated and lacked finesse. Despite the Silverado's size, the interior storage was not as innovative as expected, and the materials used did not impart a sense of quality. The Silverado offered a range of trims and configurations, with the LTZ trim providing a mix of luxury and functionality, though it fell short in terms of interior sophistication.

The 2020 Ford Ranger was equipped with a 2.3-litre EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided ample power for low-speed driving and highway passing, with a towing capacity of up to 3,401 kilograms (7,500 pounds). The Ranger's 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD system contributed to its capability, though the ride was somewhat stiff, similar to a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. The FX4 Off-Road package enhanced its off-road prowess with features like an electronically locking rear differential and off-road-tuned suspension.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a range of engines, with the Duramax turbodiesel being a standout choice for its fuel efficiency and torque. This engine produced 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 4,309 kilograms (9,500 pounds). The Silverado's 10-speed automatic transmission and Autotrac 4WD system provided smooth and seamless acceleration. However, the standard suspension allowed for excessive body movement on highways and rough terrain, making the Z71 Off-Road Package a recommended upgrade for better control and stability.

The 2020 Ford Ranger was available in SuperCab and SuperCrew configurations. The SuperCab featured a 2+2 layout with rear-opening clamshell doors, while the SuperCrew offered a full four-door setup with seating for five. The Ranger's interior provided practical storage solutions, including deep in-door pockets and a centre console bin. The SuperCab paired with a six-foot bed, while the SuperCrew came with a five-foot bed, both offering features like a remote locking tailgate and LED bed lighting.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500's crew cab configuration provided a spacious interior with wide, supportive front seats and ample rear seat space for three adults. The Silverado offered dual dashboard glove compartments and a power sliding centre rear window section. The cargo bed was the deepest and roomiest among its competitors, with features like a CornerStep rear bumper and up to 12 tie-down hooks. The optional Multi-Flex tailgate added versatility, though our test truck featured a remote power-down tailgate instead.

The 2020 Ford Ranger's base XL trim included basic entertainment features like an AM/FM stereo and Bluetooth connectivity. The XLT trim upgraded to SYNC 3 with an 8-inch touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lariat trim featured an optional B&O sound system by Bang & Olufsen. FordPass Connect provided remote access and Wi-Fi hotspot capability, though these features required a subscription after the first year.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500's infotainment system, despite smaller screen sizes compared to rivals, was impressive with quick response times and modern graphics. The LTZ trim offered a fully-featured system with an 8-inch HD display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 7-speaker Bose premium sound system. The Silverado also provided a head-up display and numerous trailering technologies, though some features fell short compared to competitors.

The 2020 Ford Ranger came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Ford’s CoPilot360 technologies. It earned top scores in most IIHS crash tests, though it received an "Average" rating for passenger-side small overlap tests. The NHTSA awarded it an overall four-star rating, with a recall for the 10-speed automatic transmission.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500's safety ratings were less impressive, with a "Marginal" rating from the IIHS for front passenger protection in small-overlap crashes. The NHTSA also gave it an overall four-star rating. The Silverado offered a range of safety features, including forward collision alert and blind-spot monitoring, but lacked some advanced technologies found in competitors.