2015 Ford F-150 vs. 2015 Chevy Silverado

Final Thoughts
Chevrolet and Ford have taken very different approaches in their full-size half-ton trucks, and both have their high points and demerits. After spending plenty of time in both of these nicely equipped trucks, we came away just a little more impressed with the F-150. Sure, the F-150 lost a little weight, and yes, we questioned whether or not the performance of the dual-turbo V6 could keep up with the big V8, but the Ford still offers great performance, a comfortable interior, and the smoother and more effortless handling of the two.

Although the Ford may have scored higher overall on our score sheets, the Silverado is still a great truck – in fact, we know that some people will want the more traditional Silverado in their driveway, and we certainly wouldn't discount it. The Chevy's 6.2-liter V8 proves true the old adage that there’s no replacement for displacement as soon as you step on the gas pedal. It earned higher marks in our tow testing, and its interior layout is preferred among our testers (and their wives). The Silverado is a proven commodity.

MSRP, curb weight, lbs./hp, lbs./lb.-ft., 0-60 times, 1/4-mile and fuel economy are scored based on objective metrics, with MSRP, 0-60 times and fuel economy being more heavily weighted due to their real-world value. Other scores are listed as a percentage of editors’ ratings in each category. The Overall Score is not a total of the displayed percentages, but it is instead a percentage of the weighted aggregate raw score.

Ford’s big gamble wasn’t so much its use of aluminum in the body but more so in its decision to veer away from big V8 power. The success of its long-term commitment to reduced weight paired with smaller motors remains to be seen, but we were surprised at how well the EcoBoost motor performed in direct comparison to a powerful V8. Does it obsolete the big V8 in the half-ton truck powertrain sweepstakes? No, but it is a unique approach that balances the fuel efficiency, power and performance truck buyers demand. That’s ultimately what earns it the win this head-to-head shootout.

SPECIFICATIONS
2015 Chevrolet Silverado High Country 4WD Crew
Engine: 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 w/VVT
Horsepower: 420 @ 5600 rpm
Torque: 460 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm
Transmission: Hydra-Matic 8L90 8-speed automatic
Curb Weight (tested): 5,660 lbs.
Height: 74 in.
Track Width: 68.7 in. (front), 67.6 in. (rear)
Length: 230 in.
Wheelbase: 143.5.3 in.
Ground Clearance: 8.9 in.
Approach Angle: 17.9 degrees
Departure Angle: 23.3 degrees
Breakover Angle: 19.0 degrees
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 7,600 lbs.
Towing Capacity: 11,800 lbs.
Payload Capacity: 2,050 lbs.
Fuel Tank: 26 gal.
Seating Capacity: 5
Axle Ratio: 3.42
MPG Rating: 15 city, 21 hwy, 17 combined
Aver. MPG (tested): 17.2 combined
Price: $59,035

2015 Ford F-150 4x4 Supercrew
Engine: 3.5L EcoBoost V6
Horsepower: 365 @ 5000 rpm
Torque (tested): 420 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm
Transmission: SelectShift 6-speed automatic
Curb Weight (tested): 5,200 lbs.
Height: 70.6 in.
Track Width: 67.6 in. (front), 67.6 in. (rear)
Length: 231.9 in.
Wheelbase: 145 in.
Ground Clearance: 9.4 in.
Approach Angle: 25.5 degrees
Departure Angle: 26 degrees
Breakover Angle: 21 degrees
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 6,000 lbs.
Towing Capacity: 11,500 lbs.
Payload Capacity: 2020 lbs.
Fuel Tank: 23 gal.
Seating Capacity: 5
Axle Ratio: 3.55
MPG Rating: 17 city, 23 hwy, 19 combined
Aver. MPG (tested): 18.7 combined
Price: $51,240