Both RAM and Chevy deliver popular heavy-duty trucks. Each brand produces full size trucks with the performance, exterior, and towing features needed for hard work and moving large equipment, so how do you choose between them? We’re looking at the RAM 2500 vs Chevy Silverado HD so you can see how these heavy duty trucks compare on price, trim levels, performance, interior features, and exterior features.
While the RAM truck has a slightly higher starting price, it offers one more trim level than the Chevy truck, and the higher trims of the RAM 2500 are more affordable than those of the Chevy Silverado HD. This means you get more high-end features and options for less when you choose the RAM pickup truck.
The RAM 2500 features the legendary 6.4-liter HEMI® V8 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that generates 429 lb-ft of torque and best-in-class maximum gas 410 horsepower. With this engine, the RAM 2500 towing capacity is 17,730 pounds and the payload capacity is 4,000 pounds.
If you prefer diesel, this RAM truck has an available 6.7-liter Cummins® turbo diesel I6 engine that pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine delivers 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft torque. The RAM 2500 towing capacity with the diesel engine is an impressive 19,990 pounds, and the payload capacity is 3,150 pounds.
The Chevy truck has a 6.6-liter V8 gas engine that pairs with an Allison® 10-speed transmission. It delivers 464 pound-feet of torque and 401 horsepower. With this engine, the towing capacity is 17,400 pounds.
The Chevy Silverado HD also has an available diesel engine. The Duramax 6.6-liter turbo-diesel V8 engine is also paired with the Allison® 10-speed transmission.
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard on both heavy duty trucks, and both have available or standard four-wheel drive (4WD) on higher trims.
The exterior and performance features of a heavy duty truck should be ready for work, but the interior doesn’t sacrifice comfort for functionality.
The RAM 2500 comes with a regular cab, crew cab, or mega cab depending on which trim you choose. There’s room for three to six people. You can choose between a 6-foot-4-inch truck bed or an 8-foot truck bed. Highlights of this RAM truck’s interior include the UConnect® infotainment system with an 8.4-inch or 12-inch touchscreen, a premium audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, a backup camera, heated front seats, Apple® Carplay, Android™ Auto, and a navigation system.
On the exterior, there are 17, 18, or 20-inch wheels, and the RAM truck is the only one to feature the class-exclusive available RamBox® Cargo Management System. The RAM 2500 also offers an available mirror-mounted camera system and telescopic trailer tow mirrors extend and retract.
The Chevy Silverado HD also offers seating for three to six, depending on the trim level and configuration. This truck has a 6-foot-5-inch truck bed or an 8-foot truck bed. The interior of the Chevy truck features the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation. The Silverado HD also has standard 17-inch wheels.
The RAM 2500 is the clear choice for your next full size truck purchase. You get more for your money and RAM-exclusive features. And J.D. Power and Associates named RAM the #1 Brand in New Vehicle Quality, so you know you’re getting a hard-working, reliable truck. Need further proof? RAM has also been the most awarded light duty and heavy duty truck brand for the last 5 years! In our opinion, you can’t go wrong with a RAM truck.
If you agree that the RAM 2500 is the right truck for you, Whitten Brothers Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM (CDJR) of Richmond is your go-to RAM dealership. We make it easy to explore our RAM truck inventory, take a test drive, and secure financing. Our sales advocates are happy to help answer any additional questions you have about this heavy duty truck, and our auto finance team can help you secure an auto loan or car lease through our in-house financing. Contact us to learn more about buying a RAM 2500 with Whitten Brothers CDJR of Richmond!
At Whitten Brothers Automotive, our content team works hard to provide well-researched and balanced articles to help empower your automotive decisions. If you have questions or need further clarification about anything you’ve read, feel free to reach out using our Contact Us form. Whether you’re looking for advice on your next vehicle purchase or need help with vehicle maintenance, our Sales Advocates or Service Advisors are here to assist you.