RAM 1500 Vs. The Competition
2026 Ram 1500 vs. F-150 vs. Silverado 1500: Compare Full-Size Pickups in Pensacola
The Ram 1500 is an exceptionally well-rounded full-size pickup and a cornerstone of the segment. While all modern pickups provide potent powertrains and strong towing and hauling abilities, the Ram 1500 distinguishes itself by blending real-world capability with an impressively refined drive. It's also nicely equipped with many premium amenities and technologies. It's no accident the fifth-generation Ram 1500 has earned seven consecutive Car and Driver 10Best awards, including 2025. That combination of comfort, features, and performance is what sets the stage for how Ram stacks up against two of its most prominent class competitors, the Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado 1500.
Ram 1500 vs. Ford F-150
Ride & Handling
The Ram 1500's rear coil-spring suspension continues to set it apart from the Ford F-150's traditional leaf-spring design. The result is a smoother towing experience and a ride that feels more composed over uneven Pensacola roads. That's especially true when equipped with the available Active-Level™ Four Corner Air Suspension. Reviewers consistently cite this setup as one of the main reasons Ram's 1/2-ton pickup drives more like a luxury SUV than a work truck. The F-150 can't match that level of day-to-day comfort.
Performance & Powertrain
While the 2025 F-150's 3.5-liter EcoBoost® and 5.0-liter V8 both deliver strong numbers, Ram's twin-turbo 3.0-liter Hurricane engines raise the bar. The standard version puts out 420 horsepower and 469 pound-feet of torque, while the High Output version pushes a commanding 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft-more than any comparable F-150 configuration. Even better for V8 enthusiasts, Ram has confirmed that the popular 5.7-liter HEMI® engine will return for 2026.
Interior & Technology
The Ram 1500's interior rivals premium SUVs for design and materials, especially in higher tiers, while the F-150 feels more utilitarian by comparison. Ram's optional 14.5-inch touchscreen and 10.3-inch passenger display outclass Ford F-150's 12-inch setup. With its available leather-trimmed seating, high-quality surface, active noise cancellation, and premium air suspension, the Ram 1500 delivers a compelling combination of modern connectivity and true long-distance comfort.
Ram 1500 vs. Chevy Silverado 1500
Ride & Suspension
The Silverado 1500 is a more-than-capable hauler, but its traditional rear-leaf suspension delivers a noticeably firmer and sometimes jittery ride. The Ram 1500, by contrast, uses a coil-spring rear suspension that absorbs uneven pavement and washboard roads with ease. With the available air suspension, the chassis can automatically lower at highway speed for better efficiency or rise to clear rough terrain. It's the kind of engineering that earns repeated Car and Driver 10Best recognition for refinement alone.
Performance & Powertrain
Chevy's 6.2-liter V8 makes a respectable 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, but Ram's Hurricane High Output powerplant (540 horsepower, 521 lb-ft) easily eclipses those figures while offering smoother low-end response. The result is stronger acceleration and more confident merging and passing. In everyday use, Pensacola drivers get quieter operation and steadier highway manners.
Driving Experience & Refinement
Where the Silverado emphasizes rugged strength, the Ram 1500 emphasizes polish. Its cabin isolation is exceptional, thanks to the acoustic glass, active noise cancellation, and excellent insulation. The steering is light yet stable, and the ride remains controlled even with a full payload. Inside, you'll find premium soft-touch surfaces and thoughtful design details like a split-level center console and available reclining rear seats. All that underscores the Ram 1500's advantage as a truck you'll actually enjoy driving every day.
Test-Drive a New Ram 1500 in Pensacola
Get in touch with Hill-Kelly Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram for more information about the Ram 1500, including its many configuration options, available financing offers, and reservation opportunities. If you'd like to check out the refinement, features, and performance firsthand, we invite you to visit our Pensacola dealership for a test drive. We'd love to give you a tour.
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