The best-selling trucks in America in 2020 were the Ford F-Series, the Chevy Silverado, and the Ram 1500 which compete head-to-head.
The Ford F-Series still leads the pack with 787,422 units sold. The Silverado and Ram numbers were extremely close with the Silverado at 586,675 and the Ram at 563,676. The Ford F-150 has long been the top-selling truck and vehicle in America, and the three trucks were also the top three selling vehicles overall in America in 2020, proving once again that America loves its trucks.
F-150 vs. Silverado vs. Ram 1500
Most of the sales for the big three pickup trucks were in the light-duty category, which is the F-150 for Ford, Silverado 1500 for Chevy, and the Ram 1500 for Ram. Ford’s sales numbers for the F-Series were actually down 12.2 percent for 2020. The Silverado was up 3.2 percent and the Ram was down 11 percent. The 2021 Ford F-150 has been fully redesigned for 2021 while the Ram 1500 is still in the generation that debuted in 2019.
The trucks are closer than you might think, even if overall sales don’t reflect that yet. The Ram stands out in most reviews for its roomy and quiet cabin that is filled with useful features as well as its incredibly smooth ride that is unbeatable by the other two trucks. Part of Ford’s 2021 redesign of the F-150 was an attempt to compete with the Ram’s appealing cabin and ride.
The Silverado quietly increased sales numbers in 2020, but it’s not redesigned for 2021 either. Instead, for the second year in a row, Chevy is adding a few new updates like upgraded infotainment and more tech to assist trailer-towing.
How the Ram Stands Out vs. the Ford F-150
Right out of the gate, the F-150 does have more engine choices vs. the Ram 1500. The Ford offers one V8 engine and several V6 choices that include naturally aspirated, turbocharged, turbo diesel, and hybrid versions. The Ram offers two V8 engines and two V6 engines, one of which is a turbo diesel. Towing figures are similar, and most drivers who want to tow more than 12,000 pounds will opt for a heavy-duty truck. So, it comes down to creature comforts like cabin storage and ride quality, which is where the Ram edges out the Ford.
How the Ram Stands Out vs. the Chevy Silverado
The Ram 1500 and the Silverado 1500 are also comparable when it comes to powertrain choices and towing ability, although the Silverado 1500 edges the Ram out slightly in towing. Both also offer intuitive tech and infotainment systems. The Silverado still offers a two-door basic cab version while the Ram has moved entirely to four-door trucks. However, the Ram 1500 stands out again with its cushioned ride and comfortable, high-quality cabin.
Which should you choose? Brand loyalty continues to play a big part in pickup truck sales. When it comes to light-duty trucks, all perform admirably in their class for towing and hauling. But, sometimes it’s the extras like cabin comfort and a smooth ride that make all the difference.
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