Considering a heavy-duty pickup truck, but don't know where to start? The F-250 and Silverado 2500 are both massive powerhouses, making it tough to choose between them. Here's what you need to know.
Key Takeaways
- There were no major changes for the Ford F-250 and Silverado 2500 in 2026.
- The Ford F-250 has higher peak torque.
- When it comes to towing, the F-250 edges out the Silverado 2500.
New Features in the 2026 Ford F-250 vs. Chevy Silverado 2500
Ford's Super Duty lineup, including the F-250, doesn't change much for 2026. It simplified some tech bundles in the pickup--for example, it put its best towing aids in the Lariat Premium package and brought back the SuperCab with a 6.5-foot bed--but other than that, it's business as usual.
The Silverado 2500 gets a few minor updates for this year. Its off-road-focused ZR2 trim now features a standard Tech Package and a standard Multi-Flex tailgate. On the outside, two new paint colors (White Sands and Polar White) debut, replacing Iridescent Pearl and Slate Gray. Chevy also discontinued floor liners with removable carpet inserts and the pickup's 20-inch polished wheel options, replacing them with 20-inch bright aluminum 12-spoke wheels.
Which Truck Puts the Pedal to the Metal with More Power?
Ford's 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel is a benchmark in the heavy-duty segment. Its standard variation produces 1,050 lb-ft, and the high-output version delivers 500 ponies and a staggering 1,200 lb-ft. It also features a 7.3-liter Godzilla V8 rated at 430 hp and 485 lb-ft. Every engine mates with a 10-speed automatic and offers rear- or all-wheel drive.
The Silverado 2500HD offers a standard 6.6-liter gas V-8 producing 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft. Upgrade to the available Duramax 6.6-liter diesel V-8 and those numbers climb to 470 horsepower and 975 lb-ft. Both engines mate to an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission and rear- or all-wheel drive.
Engines
| 2026 Ford F-250 |
2026 Chevy Silverado 2500 |
| 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel |
6.6-liter Duramax diesel V8 |
| 7.3-liter Godzilla V8 |
6.6-liter gas V8 |
| 10-speed automatic transmission |
Allison 10-speed automatic transmission |
| RWD or AWD |
RWD or AWD |
Towing Capacity of the 2026 Ford F-250 vs. Chevy Silverado 2500
The 2026 Ford F-250 has a max towing capacity of up to 23,000 lbs with the High-Output 6.7L Power Stroke diesel and a gooseneck setup. Conventional towing otherwise ranges from 14,500 to 22,000 pounds, depending on your choice of engine and cab configuration.
With its standard gas V8, the 2026 Silverado 2500 HD can tow up to 16,000 pounds in double or crew cab configuration, and either the standard or long bed and rear-wheel drive. That number climbs to 18,500 pounds with gooseneck towing. Opting for the available turbodiesel V8 pushes conventional towing capacity to an impressive 20,000 pounds with the max trailering package paired with a double or crew cab, standard or long bed, and either rear- or four-wheel drive. That same package also elevates gooseneck towing limits to 22,070 pounds.
Which Is the Best Heavy-Duty Truck for owing 2026
The F-250 XL base trim features an 8-inch display, though a 12-inch screen is available on higher trims. The Bang & Olufsen sound system and other expanded connectivity options are tied to upper trims and packages.
The Silverado 2500 HD starts with a 7-inch touchscreen, a 3.5-inch driver display, and basic connectivity including USB-A and USB-C ports. Higher trims (LT, LTZ, Trail Boss, High Country, and ZR2) come standard with a 13.4-inch touchscreen.
How the F-250 Compares to the Ford F-250 vs. Chevy Silverado 2500 in Real-World Use
The F-250 handles more weight and works harder than the Silverado 2500. If you want to experience the truck that dominates the competition, visit our Jarrett-Gordon Ford Showroom in Davenport for a test drive today!