Few automotive segments are as hotly contested as the ½ ton pickup category – and with tens of thousands of customers on the line, you can bet that Ford and Chevrolet aren’t holding back. That’s why the new 2018 F-150 and the 2017 Silverado represent some of the best currently on offer – let’s find out which one ends up on top.
Engines & Power
The engine is the heart of any truck, so it helps that the Ford offers four engines to the Silverado’s three. It’s also interesting to note that the Chevy eschews turbocharged power in favour of old-school big-displacement engines. As a result, the F-150 gets much better fuel economy across the board without sacrificing power.
Towing Capacity
A pickup just isn’t a pickup if it can’t tow all your toys and tools! That’s why there’s been an ongoing battle between manufacturers to produce the most capable hauling machine on the market. The Silverado is a capable beast, with a maximum towing capacity of 12,500 pounds and a maximum payload of 2250 pounds. The F-150 however, betters it with ratings of 13,200 pounds of towing and a whopping 3,270 pounds.
Technology & Luxury
Trucks are far more than just humble work-trucks – they also need to be comfortable enough for daily duty. Both the Silverado and F-150 are loaded to the gills with tech and luxury fixings: items like rearview cameras, Bluetooth connectivity, and touchscreens are all standard fair. The Silverado offers a 4G Wi-Fi, and wireless charging, whereas the F-150 offers Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and a remote tailgate release. Both end up fairly equal in this regard.
Price & Cost of Ownership
It’s one thing to build a better truck, but it’s quite another to price it for less than the competition. That’s why it’s nice to see that despite its aluminum bodywork, the Ford F-150 starts at just $29,499 compared to the Silverado’s $30,435. The Ford should also have a lower overall cost of ownership thanks to its lower fuel consumption.
In the end, while both trucks put up a strong showing, the Ford F-150 lands in the winner’s circle. It’s combination of strong power, excellent fuel economy, superior towing potential, and an interior brimming with luxury is what puts it on top. Visit Ducharme Motors in Bonnyville, AB and browse our New Vehicle Inventory to find your perfect F-150 today!