Comparison of the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 & 2026 RAM 1500
If you're looking for a new truck, you'll find two names that always rise to the top of the list. The 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and the 2026 RAM 1500 are both popular, capable, and versatile. With so many features to these two models, you may wonder which one is the best for your needs.
 2026 Silverado 1500 |  2026 RAM 1500 |
MSRP | |
| $36,900 | $41,025 |
Warranty/Maintenance | |
| Limited: 3 yrs / 36,000 mi; Powertrain: 5 yrs / 60,000 mi; one complimentary scheduled maintenance visit | Limited: 3 yrs / 36,000 mi; Powertrain: 5 yrs / 50,000 mi; no complimentary scheduled maintenance |
Engine | |
| Turbocharged 2.7 L 4-cyl, 5.3 L V-8, 6.2 L V-8, Duramax 3.0 L diesel inline-6 | V-6 with 48V mild hybrid, twin-turbo inline-6 (Hurricane), 5.7 L Hemi V-8 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | |
| 13,300 lbs. | 11,610 lbs. |
Max Horsepower | |
| 420 hp | 540 hp |
Max Torque | |
| 495 lb.-ft. | 521 lb.-ft. |
Interior Features | |
| Base trims are basic; from LT upward more refined (12.3″ digital gauge, large center touchscreen, more premium trim in High Country) | Strong emphasis on luxury in higher trims (e.g. Tungsten with massage seats, premium materials); large screens (12.0″ or optional 14.5″) |
Infotainment | |
| Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, mobile hotspot standard; LT+ trims get 13.4″ touchscreen, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto; optional Alexa integration | Standard 12.0″ or optional 14.5″ touchscreen; Apple CarPlay, Android Auto; optional passenger display (10.3″) |
Powerful Performance
As you start your comparison of the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and 2026 RAM 1500, you'll find that both models are quite capable for everyday driving. They both start out with a gas engine with the Chevy making a 2.7L four-cylinder standard over the 3.6L V6 of the RAM. Interestingly, it's the four-cylinder engine that has a slight advantage in horsepower. The real difference is in torque with the Silverado 1500 providing 430 lb.-ft over the 269 lb.-ft of the RAM 1500. The result is that the Silverado 1500 has a towing capacity of 9100 pounds over the 7660 pounds of the RAM truck. Both models provide similar efficiency and feature an eight-speed automatic transmission. When you get to the top trim, Chevy's truck has a slight advantage when it comes to fuel economy. Both models are using a turbocharged V6 engine. Chevy pairs it with a ten-speed automatic transmission over RAM's eight-speed that it carries through the line.
Practical Technology and Comfort
If you choose the base model of either the 2026 Chevy Silverado 1500 or the RAM 1500, you'll get the basics when it comes to technology. Bluetooth is included and a simple stereo system, which can be upgraded on higher trims. The Chevy Silverado 1500 does make Android Auto and Apple CarPlay standard on the base trim with RAM including it on higher models. Power windows and doors are standard and vinyl seating is standard for both models. As you move up to the highest trims, you get leather with power seats and heated and cooled front seats. Both trucks include memory settings for the driver to retain their preferences. Heated mirrors with memory are standard when you get to the top of the line for either model.
Safety for the Road
Both trucks include basic safety features on the entry trim. A backup camera is standard along with Lane Keep Assist. Only the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 makes Forward Collision Warning standard across the line. Pedestrian Detection is also standard on the Silverado 1500. As you look at the highest trims, you'll notice they include more safety features. A blind spot system is standard on the top trims for both brands along with Adaptive Cruise Control and Remote Engine Start. Only Chevy makes the surround view camera standard for the highest trim with RAM including it as an option.
Both the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and the 2026 RAM 1500 have a lot to offer buyers. Depending on the trim level you choose, you can either have the basics or enjoy more luxury. In the end, the Chevy Silverado 1500 offers more power and strength to get the job done.
If you live around Elizabethtown, Mount Joy, or Lititz and want to see the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, you can visit Hondru Chevrolet of Manheim. Stop by the dealership for a test drive or contact us with questions.