The Chevrolet 2500 And Ford F-250 Compared

Manufacturers continue to battle for market share in the heavy-duty truck segment. Today, we compare two top performers — the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and the Ford F-250. We’ll review the different features and packages to help you understand how these trucks perform and which model works best for you and your financing options.

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Vs. Ford F-250 Powertrain Options

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Chevy uses a 6.6-liter V-8 gas engine paired with a six-speed heavy-duty automatic transmission as the standard powertrain in all five trim levels. As a result, this powertrain makes 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque. In addition, the Silverado 2500 can tow up to 14,500 pounds and haul 3,817 pounds in the bed when properly equipped.

You can opt for a 6.6-liter Duramax turbo-diesel V-8 engine that increases torque and towing while offering better efficiency ratings. Chevy paired the Duramax engine with an Allision 10-speed automatic transmission. The resulting power output rates at 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque. Diesel power enables conventional towing up to 14,500 pounds and 18,510 pounds with a fifth-wheel/gooseneck configuration. A dual rear wheel setup allows you to tow an impressive 30,000 pounds.

Ford installed a 6.2-liter V-8 engine with flex-fuel capability and paired it with its TorqShift G six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain produces 385 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque and tows up to 14,000 pounds. Next, buyers can choose a heavy-duty 7.3-liter V-8 engine with 430 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. The 7.3-liter engine lowers your conventional towing capacity by 200 to 15,000 pounds.

You can opt for Ford’s 6.7-liter PowerStroke turbo-diesel V-8 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain produces 475 horsepower and 1,095 lb-ft of torque and a conventional towing capacity of 15,200 pounds. In addition, you can tow up to 20,000 pounds with a fifth-wheel or gooseneck setup.

Winner: Even

Don’t be fooled by the F-250’s higher torque numbers. In the real world, these figures are nominal. It’s all about the towing capacity, and the Silverado 2500 comes out on top.

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Interior Vs. Ford F-250 Interior

We looked at the top-tier Silverado 2500 High Country model and found impressive accommodations. However, premium perforated leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, and convenient in- and under-seat storage compartments only scratch the surface.

Silverado’s Infotainment 3 Premium system runs through the touch-screen display and has built-in Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth technologies for convenience. These systems let you sync your smart devices to make calls, send texts, access your apps, get navigation, and more hands-free. In addition, voice recognition software hears your intuitive voice commands and executes them while you keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.

Other features include a bed-view camera enabling you to check on your cargo without pulling over and getting out. Plus, you have a surround-view camera system that projects a bird’s-eye view of your Silverado to assist you when quarters get tight.

The F-250 Limited sits at the top of the series. You also have premium leather seats but lack the storage solutions of the Silverado. Ford’s infotainment system powered by SYNC 4 technology delivers the same functionality as Apple and Android phones operated through the touch screen. Unfortunately, the Ford F-250 interior doesn’t achieve the same level of refinement as the Silverado 2500.

Winner: Silverado 2500

Overall, these interiors have many of the same qualities. However, more thoughtful appointments and helpful storage solutions push the Silverado 2500 ahead of the Ford F-250.

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Exterior Vs. Ford F-250 Exterior

It’s hard to go crazy over exterior features when comparing pickup trucks. However, the Silverado 2500 lineup looks poised and rugged from every angle. Stylish alloy wheels in various colors and sizes give you plenty of options. In addition, the High Country boasts the multi-function tailgate and the segment-exclusive power tailgate. These options change the game regarding loading, unloading, and working. In addition, you have a standard spray-in bed liner with the High Country logo.

Comparing the exteriors of these two trucks is more about what one doesn’t possess. The Ford F-250 looks like a heavy-duty pickup without any distinguishing characteristics. You have multiple wheel options and helpful features like the LED lighting system to consider, but Silverado also has these. The F-250 doesn’t have the six-position multi-function tailgate with power open and close. The push of a button lowers your Silverado tailgate gently and closes it with equal ease. Plus, the functionality of adjusting your tailgate from a step to a workbench to a cargo stop for extended loads takes hauling to another level.

Winner: Silverado 2500

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Towing Systems Vs. Ford F-250 Towing Systems

Silverado’s towing technology impresses, particularly with the available camera views. For starters, you get four hitch views to help you attach your trailer. The hitch view shows your ball as you back toward the trailer’s receiver. You also have a surround-view that splits the screen between an overhead shot of your truck and the path behind you, complete with dynamic gridlines to help with distance.

A rear top-down view shows your ball from the trailer viewpoint as it approaches the receiver. In addition, you have a bed view camera angle that looks out from the roof line over the bed and behind.

While towing, you can switch between six driving views. A transparent trailer view shows you what’s directly behind your trailer by digitally removing your trailer from the picture. You also have a front camera view, a picture-in-picture side view, and a rear trailer view. Plus, you can mount a camera inside your trailer, and your rearview mirror can switch to a live video from behind. Ford offers a similar camera system without the number of angles and sophistication.

Winner: Silverado 2500

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 for the Win

After thoroughly reviewing both trucks, the Silverado 2500 becomes the clear winner. More towing capacity, better comfort, and top-of-the-line technology make the Silverado the logical choice. If you’re ready to upgrade your work truck to a capable Silverado 2500, we invite you to browse our inventory online or stop by and speak with our sales team.