If you are in the market for a full-size, light-duty pickup truck, there are two top-runners to consider – the 2019 Chevy Silverado vs 2019 Ram 1500. Both of these models offer family-friendly versatility and maximum utility to meet all of your driving needs. Whether you are taking the kids to school or heading out on an adventure in the great outdoors, you can do it all with either vehicle. Taking a closer look at performance, advanced features, and overall style will help you choose which of the two is right for you.
Performance and Power
The 2019 Chevy Silverado is quite the competitor. With six advanced powertrains and four engines to choose from, it’s hard for any other truck to stand up to it. The first option is the 2.7L turbo engine that generates 310 horsepower and 348 lb-ft of torque. It comes equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission and auto start/stop technology. It comes standard on the LT and RST trim levels and has the capacity to tow up to 7,000 pounds. The next option is the 4.3L V6 engine that pumps out 285 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque, and is equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This motor comes standard on the Work Truck, Custom, and Custom Trail Boss trim levels and can haul up to 7,900 pounds, depending on the trim. The third option is the 5.3L V8 engine that produces 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. It can be equipped with an 8- or 6-speed automatic transmission. Depending on the configuration, this beast can tow up to 11,600 pounds without breaking a sweat when equipped with the MaxTrailering Package. The final engine choice is the 6.2L V8 that pushes out a whopping 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, and is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and auto start/stop technology. Only available on the LTZ and High Country trim levels, it can pull up to 12,200 when equipped with the MaxTrailering Package.
Comparably, the 2019 Ram 1500 is available with only three engine options. The first is the 3.6L V6 engine that generates 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission, it has a maximum towing capacity of 7,730 pounds. The second option is the 5.7L HEMI V8 that pumps out 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. With the same 8-speed automatic transmission, it can pull up to 11,610 pounds. The final choice is actually the same 5.7L V8 motor, but this one is paired with the eTorque Mild Hybrid System. This system replaces the conventional alternator with a generated that is powered by a 48-volt battery. Equipped with the same 8-speed automatic transmission, this system boosts the fuel economy up a bit, as well as, the maximum towing capacity up to 12,750 pounds.
Advanced Interior Features
Inside the 2019 Chevy Silverado is an array of special features designed for your comfort, convenience, and entertainment. The Head-Up Display is a multicolor 15-inch monitor located behind the steering wheel that can project your speed, navigation, and active safety alerts onto your windshield. This enables you to be aware of your driving stats while keeping your eyes on the road ahead. A center console and two rear seat-back compartments are provided for additional storage space in the cabin. Depending on which trim level you choose, there are four versions of the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System. The base package comes with a 7-inch touchscreen display that operates with Bluetooth connectivity for two active devices and is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A rearview camera enables you to parallel park with ease, and the 4G LTE WIFI hotspot will keep you connected everywhere you go.
The Plus package upgrades the touchscreen to an 8-inch HD monitor with faster processing speed. The Plus with Navigation packaging adds voice-enhanced navigation so that you’ll never be lost again. Finally, the Premium with Navigation package offers additional memory for more apps and a high-quality Bose stereo. Advanced safety features may include adaptive cruise control, HD surround vision, rearview mirror, blindspot monitoring, lane-keeping assist/warning, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and emergency braking. All of these unique systems work in unison to help prevent accidents on the roads and keep your family safe.
The 2019 Ram 1500 offers several unique storage compartments as well. You can easily stash things under the seats or inside provided bins for safekeeping. There is a 7-inch Driver Information Digital Cluster with 3D graphics, but no projection like the Chevy Silverado. The cabin features active noise cancellation and a panoramic sunroof, depending on the chosen trim level. For entertainment, Apple CarPlay is supported for a seamless music experience with the 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Also available is the Uconnect 12.0 with Navigation infotainment interface. Displayed on a 12-inch touchscreen with split-screen capability, you can easily make your way through a new city while listening to your favorite songs. Safety features may include lane-departure warning, smart cruising, guided parking, blindspot monitoring with rear cross-path and trailer detection, and a 360-degree surround-view camera system. All of these functions will help you drive confidently and keep your family safe.
Overall Styling
With eight trim choices and eleven exterior color options, customization is key when it comes to the 2019 Chevy Silverado. All models are designed with the best-in-class bed width and length for the standard and short boxes. With 20% more volume than competitors, you can load this beast up with almost anything. Constructed out of high-strength roll-formed steel, the bed lining is tougher and lighter than ever before. With 12 standard tie-downs, the bed can manage up to 500 pounds per corner. There is also a 120-volt outlet located near the tailgate with lighting for better visibility and footsteps that can handle work boots. You can choose from the following three body styles – Regular Cab (8.1-ft bed), Double Cab (6.6-ft), and Crew Cab (5.8-ft). Exterior paint colors are Black, Havanna Brown Metallic, NorthSky Blue Metallic, Shadow Grey Metallic, Oakwood Metallic, Satin Steel Metallic, Silver Ice Metallic, Iridescent Pearl Metallic, Summit White, Red Hot, and Cajun Red Metallic.
With six trim levels and seven exterior paint colors to choose from, the 2019 Ram 1500 is not as customizable as the Chevy Silverado. Available in 3 body styles, you can choose between the Regular Cab, Double Cab, or Crew Cab. Keep in mind that the two-door Regular Cab is only available on the Work Truck trim level. You can also choose your bed length with options varying from the short (5.8-ft), standard (6.5-ft), and long (8-ft). Dual lockable storage bins with LED lighting are also included and feature a 115-volt outlet. The paint options include Ivory White, Bright Silver Metallic, Maximum Steel Metallic, Granite Crystal Metallic, Patriot Blue Pearl, Delmonico Red Pearl, and Diamond Black Crystal Pearl.
Making the Right Decision
When you are looking for the right full-size truck to meet your adventures head-on, there are many factors to consider. From performance and safety to space and customization, it’s up to you to decide which one best suits your needs.
