For most pickup trucks, the design is centered around payload and towing capacity, as that’s what buyers are looking for. Consequently, you won’t find too many options with performance-focused trim levels that can easily handle off-roading. Pickup trucks that offer packages for better driving experiences are just as rare. With both the 2022 Chevy Silverado ZR2 and 2022 Ford F-150 Tremor being exceptions to the status quo, a rivalry between them is inevitable. Here’s a head-to-head comparison to find out which of these performance-focused pickup trucks is better than the other.

2022 Chevy Silverado ZR2

The 2022 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 is Chevy’s flagship factory-lifted off-road vehicle and has the features to match. This includes exterior enhancements that help optimize the off-road performance of the truck. One of these enhancements is the off-road chassis. The vehicle also comes standard with 33-inch off-road MT tires.

Notably, the pickup truck is designed with a high-approach steel front bumper and a raised body. According to Chevrolet, the bumper and ground clearance allow the car to achieve a 31.8-degree approach angle. This is significantly higher than most other Silverado models, and the bumper also comes with removable end caps. Therefore, these caps can be removed and replaced if you ram into some rocks or other elements on off-road terrain.

Next, the vehicle comes with uniquely tuned springs with multimatic dampers that increase the suspension travel for extra comfort. Compared to other trim levels like the Silverado Trail Boss, this is especially true. A unique skid plate also helps protect the truck’s underside, and buyers can make suspension calibrations based on terrain. For instance, the vehicle allows for easier one-pedal crawling in Terrain mode.

Under the hood is a powerful 6.2L V8 engine that forks out 420 horsepower and about 460 lb-ft of torque. Consequently, the truck can handle a 1,440-pound payload and tow up to 8,900 pounds.

As for the pickup truck’s interior, there are a couple of noteworthy features, according to Car and Driver. The 13.4-inch-diagonal horizontal touchscreen is standard and comes bundled with a 12.3-inch-diagonal digital instrument cluster. Notably, both of these screens are configurable. Additionally, the whole interior consists of premium materials.

Lastly, while the cost of the 2022 Silverado ZR2 is yet to be announced, current starting price estimates are between $64,000 and $67,000.

2022 Ford F-150 Tremor

As for the 2022 Ford F-150 Tremor, pricing starts at about $51,200, although there are three trim levels. The two higher trim levels add optional features that buyers can get by digging deeper into their pockets.

According to Ford, the vehicle is fitted with a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine that churns out 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, just like the 2022 Chevy Silverado ZR2, it’s made for off-roading with specific features added for this purpose. One example is the re-tuned suspension that provides softer damping and additional control while off-roading.  

You’ll also see features such as Trail Control and Trail Turn Assist, which allow for optimal power delivery to the drive train and easier navigation through tight corners. Also, the vehicle offers four-wheel drive as standard, and buyers get a locking rear differential in all three trims. However, buyers can add a Torsen slip differential by picking one of the two higher trim options.

The F-150 Tremor is rated at 10,900 pounds and 1,885 pounds, respectively, in terms of towing and payload capacity. Consequently, the F-150 Tremor can tow 2,700 pounds more than the Ford F-150 Raptor and has 445 pounds of extra payload capacity, according to Car and Driver. As such, contrary to popular belief, it may be more than a sub-par Raptor.

Inside the Ford F-150 Tremor’s cabin, you find different-sized screens depending on which of the three trim models you choose. However, with the Tremor High, which is the highest package option, buyers get a 12″ productivity screen. Lastly, the F-150 is similar to the Silverado ZR2, where the 33-inch tires are concerned.

Which full-size off-road performance pickup truck is better?

The 2022 Ford F-150 Tremor model is easily the better option in terms of towing and payload capacity. However, it’s a different matter if you’re looking for a high-performance off-road beast. While close, the Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 edges out the Ford since it’s better tuned for the rigors of rock crawling and off-roading. You can see this in elements such as the built-in skid plate, dedicated off-road chassis, and the high-approach angle.