2021 RAM 1500 vs 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2021 RAM 1500 was a continuation of the redesign that began in 2019, maintaining its established design without new cosmetic changes. It offered a variety of configurations, including quad cab or crew cab models, with bed lengths of five-foot, seven-inch or six-foot, four-inch, and options for rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The standout for 2021 was the introduction of the TRX model, a robust off-road vehicle inspired by rally races. The TRX featured a commanding presence with a functional hood scoop, massive grille, and fender vents, all built on the Ram 1500 Rebel trim's styling. It was a crew cab-only 4x4 with a five-foot, seven-inch box, and its dimensions were larger than the standard Ram 1500, straddling commercial vehicle territory. The TRX also boasted significant ground clearance and the ability to ford through up to 81 cm of water, making it a formidable off-road contender.

The interior of the TRX matched its rugged exterior with first-class comfort and technology. It drew inspiration from the Ram Rebel, offering elevated durability and luxury. Standard upholstery included black premium cloth and vinyl with red accents, with options for leather and suede. The cabin featured a flat-bottom performance steering wheel, a 12-inch Uconnect infotainment display, and a vehicle-specific ID marker. The TRX also included unique Easter eggs, such as a scale chart comparing the heights of an adult male, a Ram TRX, a Tyrannosaurus rex, and a velociraptor, adding a playful touch to its design.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a range of configurations with three cab styles, three bed lengths, and eight trim levels, each with a distinctive appearance. It provided six engine options paired with various automatic transmissions, with four-wheel drive available. The test truck featured a crew cab, short bed, and LTZ trim, equipped with a 3.0-litre inline-six turbodiesel engine. The Silverado's exterior was characterized by its boxy, chiseled design, flared fenders, and a blunt nose, exuding a commanding presence. The Northsky Blue paint, chrome trim, and 20-inch polished aluminum wheels added to its visual appeal.

However, the Silverado's interior did not match its exterior's modernity. The cabin felt dated, with glossy plastic, large panel joints, and small infotainment screens lacking finesse. While the truck's interior didn't need to be sophisticated, it should have imparted a sense of quality, which the Silverado struggled to achieve. Despite this, the Silverado offered ample storage space, though it lacked innovation and missed opportunities for additional features.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX was equipped with a 6.2-litre supercharged Hemi V8 engine, delivering an impressive 702 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the TRX could accelerate to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 190 km/h. It had a payload capacity of 594 kg and a maximum towing capability of 3,674 kg. The TRX's fuel consumption was rated at 22.4 litres per 100 km in the city, 16.5 on the highway, and 19.8 combined. The TRX offered eight on- and off-road drive modes, including a newly calibrated Baja mode, and featured a segment-exclusive four-corner air suspension. During testing, the TRX demonstrated its capabilities on various terrains, from mountain highways to off-road tracks, showcasing its versatility and performance prowess.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offered a choice between a 6.2-litre Ecotec3 V8 engine and a Duramax turbodiesel engine. The Duramax, priced at $1,995, provided excellent fuel efficiency, achieving 9.6 L/100 km in combined driving. It delivered 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 4,309 kg and a payload capacity of 848 kg. The Silverado's maximum towing and payload capabilities were higher with the 6.2-litre V8 engine. The Duramax engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and the Silverado featured an electronic Autotrac 4WD system. The Z71 Off-Road Package was recommended for improved suspension performance, as the standard suspension allowed for unsettling body movement on rough terrain.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX offered functional features such as full-length rock rails for added protection and a full-size spare tire. Despite its larger exterior proportions, the TRX's interior dimensions were identical to the standard Ram 1500, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The cabin provided numerous storage options, including a large centre storage bin. The TRX Level 2 package included compliant front seats and powered-adjustable pedals, enhancing comfort and adjustability for drivers of all sizes.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 crew cab provided a spacious interior with wide, supportive front seats offering 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The rear seat accommodated three adults comfortably, with heated outboard seat cushions and a power sliding centre rear window section. The Silverado offered ample storage space, though it lacked innovation and missed opportunities for additional features. The cargo bed was the deepest and roomiest among its competitors, with useful features like the CornerStep rear bumper and up to 12 tie-down hooks.

The 2021 RAM 1500 featured a 12-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect 4C infotainment system, offering customizable displays and performance pages for vehicle calculations. The system included wireless charging, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, and a 10-speaker Alpine audio system. The TRX also offered a full-colour head-up display, providing real-time driving information. However, the touchscreen's glossy finish was prone to fingerprints, and its positioning was not driver-centric.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500's infotainment system featured a smaller 8-inch HD display but offered quick loading and response times. The system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and a 7-speaker Bose premium sound system. The Silverado also offered a head-up display and up to 15 high-definition cameras for improved visibility. However, the Bose speaker components were not considered premium, and the Silverado's trailering technologies fell short compared to competitors.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX offered over 100 safety and security features, including forward collision warning and advanced driver-assistance systems. However, many of these features were optional and required additional packages. The TRX included a rear backup camera, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and pedestrian detection. Passive safety features included an auto-reverse function for windows and sunroof and an enhanced accident response system.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 received a "Marginal" rating from the IIHS for front passenger protection in a small-overlap collision and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The Silverado offered safety features such as forward collision alert, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional upgrades included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. However, the Silverado lacked stop-and-go capability for adaptive cruise control and a lane-centering assistance system.