2026 Chevrolet Silverado WT vs 2026 Ram 1500 Tradesman
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
1500 Tradesman starts at $39,990, $510 less. Silverado WT leads with 22 MPG. Silverado WT makes 310 hp (+5).
| Spec | 2026 Chevrolet Silverado WT | 2026 Ram 1500 Tradesman |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $40,500 +$510 | $39,990 Save $510 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.7L Turbo I4 | 3.6L V6 |
| Horsepower | 310 hp +5 hp | 305 hp 5 hp less |
| Torque | 430 lb-ft | 269 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Spd AT | 8-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 20 +2 | 18 2 less |
| Hwy MPG | 25 | 25 |
| Combined MPG | 22 +2 | 20 2 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 3 | 3 |
| Cargo | 71.7 cu ft | 53.9 cu ft |
| Screen | 7.0" | 8.4" |
| Wireless CarPlay | No | No |
| Heated Seats | No | No |
| Moonroof | No | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,400 lbs | 4,798 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 147.4" | 144.6" |
| Length | 230.0" | 228.9" |
| Wheels | 17" Steel | 18" Steel |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Chevy Safety | Safety Group |
Silverado WT or 1500 Tradesman?
Both are competitive. 1500 Tradesman has a lower entry price, Silverado WT leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado WT and 2026 Ram 1500 Tradesman?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Silverado WT or 1500 Tradesman?
Should I buy a 2026 Chevrolet Silverado or Ram 1500?
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet Silverado or Ram 1500?
Is the Chevrolet Silverado bigger than the Ram 1500?
What is the cost of insurance for the Silverado WT vs 1500 Tradesman?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado WT?
Who Should Choose the Silverado WT
The 2026 Chevrolet Silverado WT appeals to buyers who prioritize what Chevrolet does best: capability and proven toughness. At $40,500, it positions itself as the more powerful option.
Fuel economy is a clear strength here — 22 combined MPG means lower running costs over the life of the vehicle. Chevrolet ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: Silverado WT vs Silverado LT, Silverado WT vs Silverado High Country, Silverado LT vs Silverado High Country.
Who Should Choose the 1500 Tradesman
The 2026 Ram 1500 Tradesman is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price.
Ram's approach to this truck emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the 1500 Tradesman deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $510 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Silverado WT is positioned higher, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Silverado WT makes 5 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 5 more horsepower, larger wheels also contribute. Both are competitive within the truck market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these trucks will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Trucks Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe trucks with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Chevrolet and Ram often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.