?The 2021 model year is shaping up to be a big one for American-made pickup truck fans, as Ford, Chevy, and Dodge get set to roll the latest models of their most well-respected trucks off the assembly line. The Chevy Silverado, Ford F-150, and Dodge Ram have become synonymous with power, efficiency, and durability over the decades they've been in production, and 2021 looks like it's not going to disappoint. But which one of these iconic pickups can truly be called the "big truck on the block" this year? Here's a look at the latest features and specs of each truck to help you see which make is your best bet for 2021.
2021 Ford F-150
First launched in 1948, it's hard to find a pickup truck more synonymous with American-made durability than the Ford F-150. This year's model comes with a few new features along with the classic ruggedness that inspired its tried-and-true slogan, "Built Ford Tough."
According to Ford, the all-new F-150 has been "redesigned to be the toughest, most productive F-150 ever, and targeted to be the most powerful truck in its class," which is certainly a lot to live up to! The 2021 F-150 is built with purpose- everything from its strong military-grade aluminum-alloy body to its torture-tested, fully-boxed, high-strength steel frame is designed with efficiency, productivity, and power in mind. With new features for the 2021 model year including a handy tailgate work surface, extra tie-downs, and an available, class-exclusive 3.5L PowerBoost™ Full Hybrid V6 engine that teams gas with electricity to pull down some serious power while making a tank of gas last approximately 700 miles.
With targeted best-in-class available towing, payload, horsepower, and torque, the 2021 Ford F-150 is billed on its website as "the truck that moves mountains, boats, bricks, and 2x4s." This fully customizable pickup legend is slated to become available for purchase in fall 2020.
2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
For fans of the legendary Chevy Silverado, 2021 appears to be a banner model year! First introduced in 1999, the Silverado has recruited legions of devoted fans who swear by its power and performance. This year, we're looking at a truckload of tech and mechanical upgrades, such as the introduction of the Multi-Flex Tailgate, an available feature that offers drives six unique functions, including a standing workstation that rivals that of the Ford F-150.
Additionally, the Silverado has received an update on its trailering capability, increasing its tow rating to 9,600 pounds (regular cab Long Box model) on its 2.7L Turbo and boosting max capacity to 9,500 pounds in 2WD for the 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel engine.
Enhanced trailering technology features in the 2021 Silverado go a long way toward increasing driver safety and confidence. The latest generation of Silverado offers up to 15 unique camera views, more than any competitor, to make trailering easier and safer. These views include Trailer Length Indicator, Jack-Knife Alert, and Cargo Bed View enhancement, all new for 2021.
The 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 was scheduled to begin production in September, arriving at Chevrolet dealerships nationwide through fall 2020.
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2021 Dodge Ram 1500 TRX
Featuring its signature supercharged 6.2L HEMI® V8 engine, the Ram boasts best-in-class horsepower and torque, creating that authentic sound that fans just can't get enough of! With 702 horsepower, 650 Lb-Ft of torque, and a 0-60 MPH time of 4.5 seconds, the latest iteration of the HEMI® lives up to its reputation of raw power.
Having just celebrated 40 years in power, the Ram first rolled off the line in 1980, for the 1981 model year. Since then it has risen to the same celebrated status as the F-150 and the Silverado, with fans who love its performance as much as its rugged durability.
Since horsepower is kind of a big deal to Ram fans, it's only fitting that two of its most awe-inspiring tech upgrades are directly related to performance: an all-new customizable dashboard gives drivers a high-tech look at stats such as reaction time, quarter-mile timer, and 60-foot timer, with instantaneous horsepower readings, steering angle measurements, and, of course, the ability to keep track of personal records.
The 2021 Dodge Ram 1500 TRX Launch Edition sold out in just 3 hours- but fear not, more models will be available for purchase soon. Keep checking with your Dodge dealership!
So, what's the big truck on the block? That answer truly comes down to your personal preference, as well as what matters most to you. Looking for a pickup truck with the heart of a race car? It's hard to beat the Ram. In the market for a dependable truck that is the gold standard of durability? Look no further than the F-150. In need of a vehicle with insane towing capability at a value? The Chevy Silverado may be the truck for you. No matter which model you decide on, you can be sure you're getting a quality pickup truck that lives up to the reputation and legacy it has created for itself.
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