2022 Toyota Tundra vs 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a variety of configurations, including three cab styles, three bed lengths, and eight trim levels, each with its own unique appearance. It was available with six different engines and a choice of 6-speed, 8-speed, or 10-speed automatic transmissions. While rear-wheel drive was standard, four-wheel drive was also an option. The test model featured a crew cab, short bed, and LTZ trim, equipped with a 3.0-litre inline-six turbodiesel engine, 4WD, and several premium packages, bringing the price to an estimated $75,838 Canadian. The Silverado's exterior was characterized by its boxy, commanding design, highlighted by Northsky Blue paint and chrome accents. However, the interior felt outdated, with glossy plastic and small infotainment screens detracting from the overall sense of quality.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra marked the beginning of its third generation, with a complete redesign that included a more dynamic and expressive exterior. The Tundra featured a large hexagonal grille with various trim-matched patterns and branding, and the TRD Pro trim boasted unique "TOYOTA" badging. The interior was updated with premium materials and amenities, including a 14-inch touchscreen display on higher trims. The Tundra aimed to be a versatile family adventure vehicle, with cohesive design elements linking the exterior and interior. The new model offered improved handling and ride quality, thanks to a revised suspension system, making it a pleasure to drive both on and off the road.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a range of engine options, with the 6.2-litre Ecotec3 V8 providing maximum towing capability and a satisfying engine rumble. However, the Duramax turbodiesel engine was a standout choice, offering 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque at lower revs. It delivered impressive fuel efficiency, achieving 9.6 L/100 km in combined driving. The Duramax's towing capacity was increased to 4,309 kilograms, though it fell short of the Silverado's maximum capabilities. The 10-speed automatic transmission paired with the Duramax was smooth, and the Z71 Off-Road Package was recommended for better suspension performance.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra introduced two new engines, moving away from the previous V8. The base i-Force engine, a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6, produced 389 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The i-Force Max hybrid powertrain offered 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque, using a Nickel-Metal Hydride battery. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Tundra's fuel consumption was rated at 11.8 L/100 km for RWD and 12.2 L/100 km for 4WD. The new chassis and suspension improved handling and ride quality, with adaptive variable suspension and load-leveling rear-height control available. The Tundra excelled in off-road conditions, especially with the TRD Off-Road package.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 crew cab offered a spacious interior with wide, supportive front seats featuring power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The rear seat accommodated three adults comfortably, with ample headroom and legroom. However, storage space was not particularly innovative, and some areas were small for the segment. The Silverado's bed was deep and roomy, with useful features like the CornerStep rear bumper and tie-down hooks. A new Multi-Flex tailgate design was optional, though the test truck had a remote power-down tailgate.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra came in Double Cab or CrewMax configurations, both offering generous rear seat legroom. The Tundra featured an aluminum-reinforced composite bed, saving weight and resisting damage. The bed maintained a payload capacity of up to 880 kilograms. Towing capacity reached 5,443 kilograms, with standard trailer sway control and TOW/HAUL mode. The cabin prioritized smart storage solutions, such as a sliding tray in the front centre armrest and a conveniently placed 12-volt power tap. Toyota's design focused on buyer convenience and practicality.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 featured the Chevrolet Infotainment System 3, with quick loading and response times. The LTZ trim included an 8-inch HD display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bose premium sound system. The system was user-friendly, with stereo volume and tuning knobs, as well as shortcut buttons. The Silverado offered a head-up display and numerous trailering technologies, though they fell short compared to competitors.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra introduced a new infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen standard on lower trims and a 14-inch touchscreen on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Toyota Connected services. Upper trims featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 10.1-inch head-up display. Off-roaders benefited from the multi-terrain select system and multi-terrain monitor system, enhancing the Tundra's off-road capabilities.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 received a "Marginal" rating from the IIHS for front passenger protection in a small-overlap collision. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall rating. Safety features included forward collision alert, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and more. However, some advanced features like stop-and-go adaptive cruise control were missing.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, including a pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. The Star Safety System and eight airbags were also standard. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on most trims.