Electric trucks have been reshaping expectations for performance, comfort, and cost of ownership. And nowhere is this more evident than when comparing Tesla’s Cybertruck to traditional diesel-powered pickups.
In this Cybertruck series wrap-up, Sandy Munro and the team took three market-leading diesel trucks — the Chevy Silverado, Ford F-150, and Ram — for short test drives to evaluate ride quality, handling, torque, and overall driving impressions. While the Cybertruck was absent from this test, its specifications serve as a stark contrast to what’s currently on the market.
This side-by-side review delivers practical insights for automotive engineers, EV enthusiasts, and investors, highlighting the ride dynamics and cost considerations shaping today’s truck market.
The Lineup and Test Method
The evaluation included:
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Chevy Silverado Diesel
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Ford F-150 Gas
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Ram Diesel
Each truck was rented for a quick “ride and drive” loop around Munro & Associates’ local area. The goal wasn’t to push these vehicles to their limits but to get a first-hand feel for suspension compliance, handling, pickup, and cabin comfort.
While short, these drives offered enough varied surfaces — from parking lot speed bumps to industrial park pavement — to reveal notable differences between models.
Chevy Silverado: Stiff Ride and Hard Seats
The Silverado set the tone for the series, but not in the way Chevy fans might hope. Sandy noted that the truck’s fixed running boards, while functional for some drivers, can become a nuisance off-road by trapping mud. Once inside, the interior styling drew a whimsical comparison to Star Wars’ R2-D2 — a nod to its design quirks and large panel gaps.
On the road, the Silverado’s diesel engine delivered solid pickup, but the ride was unmistakably “truck-like” — bouncy and stiff, even at modest speeds of 12–15 mph. Seat cushions felt hard, adding to the overall impression that this was the least comfortable of the three trucks tested. For Sandy, it was a clear step down in ride comfort compared to his Jeep.
Verdict: Traditional diesel capability, but lacking in ride refinement.
Ford F-150: Familiar, Functional, and a Better Ride
Ford’s F-150, the best-selling truck in North America with around 800,000 units sold annually, presented a more refined package. The styling drew praise, particularly the retractable running boards that tuck away when not in use — keeping them cleaner in off-road or muddy conditions.
On the road, the gas-powered F-150 showed noticeably better acceleration than the Silverado. Ride quality over identical bumps was improved, with less tossing around. Handling was predictable, even when cornering at 25 mph.
While not as smooth as the Ram, the F-150 offered a balanced compromise between capability and comfort, making it Sandy’s second choice overall.
Verdict: Solid all-rounder with a ride that beats most traditional trucks.
Ram: Standout Ride and Surprising Speed
The Ram made the strongest impression of the day. Its diesel powertrain provided quick acceleration comparable to the F-150, but the real differentiator was its ride. An air suspension system kept bump harshness to a minimum, delivering a feel more akin to a luxury SUV than a heavy-duty pickup.
Handling was equally impressive, with confident cornering and minimal body roll. Interior controls were pared down to essentials, with a rotary gear selector that Sandy preferred over traditional shifters.
A bold red paint job — which Sandy said would look great on a Tesla — capped off the package. In terms of comfort, capability, and style, the Ram was the clear winner of the day.
Verdict: Smooth, quiet, and composed — the truck to beat in this lineup.
Cost and Torque Comparison
Price points for the tested trucks were:
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Chevy Silverado Diesel: $66,000
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Ford F-150 Gas: $75,000
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Ram Diesel: $69,000
Torque figures told another story:
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Chevy Silverado Diesel: 460 lb-ft
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Ford F-150 Gas: 510 lb-ft (class leader in this test)
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Ram Diesel: 480 lb-ft
For context, Tesla’s dual-motor Cybertruck is projected to deliver 824 lb-ft of torque — a massive leap over all three. Instant torque delivery from electric motors means quicker acceleration and more responsive performance, a clear advantage EVs hold over combustion rivals.
The Cybertruck Factor
While the Cybertruck wasn’t physically present in this comparison, its specs cast a long shadow. The truck’s torque output, combined with its EV architecture, promises a driving experience that could surpass even the Ram’s benchmark comfort.
Munro has extended an open invitation to Tesla to provide a Cybertruck for future testing — with the understanding that it wouldn’t be torn down, but evaluated in real-world driving against ICE competitors.
Choosing the Right Truck
Sandy framed his final assessment through three “ages” that influence purchasing decisions:
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Chronological Age — your actual age from birth.
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Health Age — your physical condition and limitations.
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Spiritual Age — how young or adventurous you feel.
Applying this lens, the Ram emerged as the truck for those seeking comfort, style, and spirited driving feel. The F-150 fit as a dependable, capable option with strong brand legacy. The Silverado, once a favorite, fell short in comfort and ride quality.
Cybertruck Competitive Truck Review Takeaways
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Ride Comfort is a Decisive Factor — Suspension design, whether traditional or air-based, heavily influences perceived quality.
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Running Board Design Matters — Retractable systems improve cleanliness and durability for off-road users.
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EV Torque Changes the Game — Cybertruck’s projected torque dwarfs diesel rivals, signaling a fundamental performance shift.
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Interior Usability Counts — Simplified control layouts can enhance driver satisfaction and reduce learning curves.
Conclusion: Waiting for the EV Challenge
The Ram currently sets the comfort benchmark in traditional trucks, but the upcoming Cybertruck could disrupt the hierarchy entirely. Until Tesla delivers one for the Munro team’s hands-on evaluation, comparisons remain theoretical — but the torque gap alone suggests a seismic shift ahead.
For engineers, designers, and buyers alike, the question is no longer whether EV trucks can match diesel competitors, but how quickly they can redefine expectations for the segment.
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