It’s no secret that auto enthusiasts can be fiercely loyal to a particular manufacturer. Ford drivers will always defend their legacy and Chevy lovers couldn’t imagine sitting behind any other wheel. This competitive nature is one of the great things that separates mankind from other animals. The desire to excel is a passion that, much like loyalty, surges through our veins.
Because of that drive to be the best, if only vicariously, this hobby goes beyond simple adoration of the cherry pickup in the garage; we get to enjoy hood-to-hood competitions, never-ending comparisons, and, of course, the playground nah-nah-nah-boo-boo that accompanies the title of “The Best”.
So, naturally, the question remains: when it comes to Ford vs. Chevy, who is the best? Let’s take a look and see how our champions are faring in 2015.
2015 Ford F-150 vs. 2015 Chevrolet Silverado
Sporting an aluminum 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine and 325 horsepower, this truck gets up to 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. It also has a towing capacity of 12,200 lbs. If you’re not familiar with Ford’s EcoBoost technology, suffice it to say that it uses a turbocharged engine. The short explanation? This technology combines direct fuel injection with a turbocharger in order to improve fuel economy while, at the same time, producing a more powerful engine.
If you’re into gadgets, the F-150 offers features like:
- active park assist;
- 360 degree camera with split-view display;
- 8” LCD productivity display;
- forward-collision warning;
- lane-keeping system;
- BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System); and
- power sliding rear window.
With its aluminum 4.3-liter EcoTec3 V6 engine and 285 horsepower, this truck gets up to 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. It’s towing capacity is slightly lower at 12,000 lbs. Chevy’s EcoTec3 incorporates some of the brand’s latest engine technologies including Active Fuel Management, Direct Injection, and Variable Valve Timing. This combination is designed to deliver both power and efficiency based on current need.
For the technologically inclined, the Silverado offers features like:
- 4G LTE Wi-fi connectivity;
- rear vision camera;
- 8” touch screen for MyLink infotainment system;
- forward-collision alert;
- lane departure warning;
- Trailer Sway Control and StabiliTrak; and
- rear-seat flip-down Blu-ray/DVD player.
Both the F-150 and the Silverado boast 5 star ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and both utilize technology to alert drivers of possible collisions.
So, the question remains: which dynasty is leading the race? While numerous head-to-head competitions and side-by-side comparisons showed that both trucks were clearly in the same league, and although the decision was often close, one brand consistently came out ahead. Under scrutiny, Autotrader, Car and Driver, and Motor Trend all favored the Ford.
Does that mean Ford is the better company? Who’s to say? The title balances on many factors, including the individual preferences and comfort of the consumer. In the end, and regardless of what the experts say, the “best” truck is the one you choose to climb into day after day.