It’s a rivalry that spans the ages, one that takes two automakers that have played integral roles in the industry and pegs them against each other in every possible way. Ford and Chevy have consistently been neck and neck for the past century, and perhaps no competition is quite as steep as the one that resides between its two famous trucks. The F-150, America’s best-selling truck for over 40 years, and the Silverado 1500, a staple at job sites and beyond for decades, are back in the ring thanks to the emergence of the off-road-ready Silverado ZR2. So when it comes to the 2022 Ford F-150 vs 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500, does Ford’s Tremor outperform the intimidating ZR2? Getting to know a little more about what each off-road variant brings to the table helps us decipher between the real deal and the imposter.
Ford F-150 Tremor
Once again, Ford has the jump on Chevy, unveiling its off-road-ready Tremor package for the 2021 F-150. From its menacing build featuring 33-inch all-terrain tires, high ground clearance, and wide stance to the power that lies under the hood with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6, you’ll find that a ride in the Tremor is anything but ordinary. An impressive 400 horsepower combines with 500 lb-ft of torque to muscle through any task, and with off-road ready shocks, any terrain is navigable. In addition, a best-in-class towing capability of 14,000 pounds allows this beast to outperform many of its rivals on any terrain, be it pavement, path, or trail.
The F-150 Tremor is ready to rock ‘n roll straight from the factory. Its electronic-locking rear differential, proven four-wheel-drive system, and selectable drive modes make maneuvering around any obstacle effortless. Trail Control allows the Tremor to navigate tricky scenarios, while Trail Turn Assist delivers the precision and agility this tough truck needs to tackle even the most technical terrain. Pairing the already impressive power of the F-150 with extreme off-roading abilities allows this celebrated truck to continue its reign at the top of the lineup, appealing to a vast array of drivers everywhere.
A high-strength steel frame, military-grade aluminum-alloy body, and a fine-tuned suspension system set this bold truck apart from the competition. Plus, with its 27.6-degree approach angle and 24.3-degree departure angle, you can say “yes” to more menacing journeys without hesitation. Its athletic build extends from front to back, with a menacing grille, intimidating bodywork, and Tremor badging throughout. Through its intelligent tech, like its 360-degree camera system, you’ll navigate better regardless of where you’re traveling. From its aggressive build to its uncanny talent on the trails and beyond, the F-150 Tremor is a force to be reckoned with, one that few adversaries dare to challenge.
Chevy Silverado ZR2
It seems as though Ford can’t do anything without Chevy mimicking it, which might be the highest form of flattery. The Silverado ZR2 debuted in 2022, just a year after the F-150 Tremor began wowing spectators. The ZR2 offers many similar features as the F-150 Tremor, including 33-inch mud-terrain tires, a high-approach front bumper, increased ground clearance, and a reinforced build that makes it easy to tackle the elements. Chevy, however, puts a V8 engine under the ZR2’s hood, delivering 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, a modest number that affects its towing capability. With a max tow rating of 8,900 lbs, the Silverado ZR2 falls significantly behind the F-150 Tremor when it comes to power.
Although it disappoints in towing capability, the ZR2 offers a precise ride on any terrain with its enhanced suspension system and Terrain Mode. Like the F-150 Tremor, the Silverado ZR2 delivers one-pedal trail driving capabilities so that drivers can focus more on steering and avoiding obstacles. In addition, its front and rear locking differentials enhance its agility in virtually any scenario, proving its prowess on the trail. From its high-strength front and rear bumpers to a hidden dual-outlet exhaust that aids in clearing obstacles, the Silverado ZR2 was undoubtedly built for adventure.
You’ll find that it’s also nicely appointed inside, with a leather-trimmed interior, a 13.4-inch touchscreen display, and an array of upscale elements. It seems as though the Silverado ZR2 gravitates toward the flashier end of the spectrum through its usage of animated LED headlamps with tracer animation; however, it should probably focus more on getting the job done instead of showing off. Despite this, the ZR2 is an impressive off-road machine. Being that it’s new to the Silverado lineup, it’s expected to catch the attention of many adventurous Chevy drivers looking to answer the call of the wild.
F-150 Tremor vs. Silverado ZR2
Unlike other automakers, Chevy doesn’t have a dedicated off-road model. With that said, you’d think Chevy would equip the ZR2 with the best components in the industry. That, however, isn’t the case as the Silverado ZR2 falls short in a few key areas. Sure, it looks the part, but competitors offer much more for far less. The Silverado ZR2 has a much higher starting price than the F-150 Tremor, yet it delivers less power. While the ZR2’s appearance is bold and its interior is opulent, drivers want a truck that doesn’t just look the part.
The F-150 Tremor, on the other hand, stuns with extraordinary power and loads of features just waiting to take your adventure to new heights. From its retuned front and rear springs and specialized shocks to its various driving modes like Rock Crawl, the F-150 Tremor is off-roading, redefined. In addition, taking advantage of upgrades like a Torsen limited-slip front differential and a 360-degree camera system catapults the F-150 Tremor past its rivals, especially the Silverado ZR2.
Chevy will likely announce a standalone off-road model like the Raptor and TRX, but the automaker is keeping a tight lid on those details, at least for now. Beggars, however, can’t be choosers. And seeing that the Silverado ZR2 was fashionably late to the party, drivers are taking what they can get. On the ZR2, that means focusing on unique components like the state-of-the-art Multimatic DSSV dampers that deliver a better ride and reduce wear and tear. See? The Silverado ZR2 has something going for it after all.
The Verdict
The age-old rivalry between Ford and Chevy continues, but it’s clear which truck is the top pick for adventurous drivers near and far. Not only is the Ford F-150 Tremor more affordable, but it’s also loaded with features that amplify its performance both on and off the trail. In turn, many drivers argue that the high-priced Silverado ZR2 is all talk, using its flashy facade to hide its modest capability and mediocre power.
For anyone who ventures off the pavement to explore new terrain, you know how important it is to have a vehicle that can handle the elements with finesse and agility, giving you the confidence you need to answer the call of the wild. Harnessing top power is another necessity because you never know what adventure the trail has in store. This is why, when it comes to off-road legends, the Ford F-150 Tremor is undeniably groundbreaking and a segment-leader by every standard.
