Ford F-150 vs Chevy Silverado: Best Used Truck Regina
Choosing between a used Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado represents one of the most common dilemmas facing Regina truck buyers. Both full-size pickups dominate Saskatchewan roads, offering the capability needed for everything from winter commuting to hauling equipment across the prairies.
This comparison examines five key areas: reliability and longevity, winter performance, fuel economy, interior comfort, and resale value. We'll help you determine which truck better suits Regina's demanding conditions and your specific needs.
Comparison Criteria Overview
Our analysis focuses on model years 2015-2022, representing the sweet spot for used truck buyers seeking modern features without new vehicle depreciation. We've evaluated:
- Reliability metrics from automotive databases and owner surveys
- Winter performance specific to Saskatchewan's -30°C conditions
- Real-world fuel economy data from Canadian drivers
- Interior features and comfort for daily commuting
- Resale values in the Regina market
Ford F-150: America's Best-Seller
Strengths
The F-150's aluminum body construction (2015+) provides significant weight savings without sacrificing durability. This translates to better fuel economy and payload capacity compared to steel-bodied competitors. The EcoBoost V6 engines deliver impressive torque while maintaining reasonable fuel consumption.
Ford's advanced traction management system excels in Saskatchewan winters. The electronic locking rear differential and available intelligent 4WD automatically adjust power distribution for optimal grip on icy Regina streets.
Interior quality improved dramatically with the 2015 redesign. Higher trim levels feature leather seating, heated and cooled seats, and Ford's SYNC infotainment system. The SuperCrew cab offers genuinely spacious rear seating for families.
Weaknesses
Early aluminum body F-150s (2015-2017) experienced some paint adhesion issues in harsh climates. While Ford addressed this through warranty extensions, it remains a consideration for used buyers.
The 10-speed automatic transmission in 2017+ models occasionally exhibits rough shifting, particularly when cold. This can be more pronounced during Regina's extended winter season.
Complexity of EcoBoost engines means higher maintenance costs compared to naturally aspirated alternatives. Turbocharger replacement can exceed $3,000 CAD if issues arise outside warranty coverage.
Chevrolet Silverado: Traditional Strength
Strengths
Chevrolet's commitment to proven V8 engines appeals to buyers prioritizing simplicity and longevity. The 5.3L and 6.2L V8s offer straightforward maintenance and excellent cold-weather reliability - crucial for Saskatchewan winters.
Steel construction provides exceptional durability for work truck applications. Body panels resist denting better than aluminum, important for contractors and tradespeople using trucks as mobile workshops.
The Silverado's ride quality traditionally surpasses the F-150, particularly with the available Magnetic Ride Control suspension. This makes daily commuting more comfortable on Regina's frost-heaved roads.
Weaknesses
Steel body construction results in higher curb weight, negatively impacting fuel economy compared to the aluminum F-150. The difference becomes significant for high-mileage drivers.
Interior materials and build quality lag behind Ford's offerings, particularly in lower trim levels. Plastic components feel less premium, and some owners report premature wear.
GM's 8-speed automatic transmission in 2019+ models has experienced reliability concerns, including harsh downshifts and premature failure in some cases.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Category | Ford F-150 | Chevrolet Silverado | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Economy | 11.2L/100km (mixed) | 12.8L/100km (mixed) | F-150 |
| Reliability Score | 3.5/5.0 | 3.0/5.0 | F-150 |
| Winter Performance | Excellent | Very Good | F-150 |
| Interior Quality | Very Good | Good | F-150 |
| Ride Comfort | Good | Very Good | Silverado |
| Resale Value | 65% (3 years) | 58% (3 years) | F-150 |
| Maintenance Costs | $850/year avg | $720/year avg | Silverado |
Statistics based on 2026 automotive industry data and will be updated annually
Regina-Specific Considerations
Winter Performance
Both trucks handle Saskatchewan winters admirably, but with different approaches. The F-150's advanced electronics provide more sophisticated traction management, while the Silverado's traditional mechanical systems offer simplicity and reliability.
For Regina's stop-and-go winter driving, the F-150's auto start-stop system (which can be disabled) helps fuel economy but may concern buyers worried about battery life in extreme cold. The Silverado's conventional approach eliminates this variable.
Block heater installation is standard practice for both trucks in Regina. Expect installation costs around $200-300 CAD at local dealerships.
Fuel Costs
With Regina gas prices averaging $1.45/L, the F-150's superior fuel economy provides meaningful savings. Over 20,000 km annually, the difference amounts to approximately $400 CAD - enough to offset some maintenance cost differences.
Service Network
Both Ford and Chevrolet maintain strong dealer networks throughout Saskatchewan. Regina hosts multiple authorized service centers for each brand, ensuring parts availability and warranty support.
Best Used Model Years
Ford F-150
- 2018-2019: Sweet spot balancing modern features with pre-pandemic pricing
- 2020-2021: Latest technology but higher purchase prices
- Avoid: 2015-2016 due to early aluminum body issues
Chevrolet Silverado
- 2016-2018: Mature platform with resolved early issues
- 2019: First year of current generation - proceed cautiously
- Avoid: 2014 and earlier due to outdated interiors
Pricing in Regina Market
Used truck prices in Regina reflect strong demand and limited supply:
Ford F-150 (2018, SuperCrew, 4WD, 80,000km)
- XLT trim: $32,000-35,000 CAD
- Lariat trim: $38,000-42,000 CAD
Chevrolet Silverado (2018, Crew Cab, 4WD, 80,000km)
- LT trim: $29,000-32,000 CAD
- LTZ trim: $34,000-38,000 CAD
When browsing our complete inventory of used vehicles, expect F-150s to command premium pricing due to stronger resale values.
Which Truck Should Regina Buyers Choose?
Choose the Ford F-150 if:
- Fuel economy is a priority
- You value advanced technology and interior quality
- Resale value matters for future trade-ins
- You primarily use the truck for commuting and light hauling
Choose the Chevrolet Silverado if:
- You prioritize ride comfort for daily driving
- Lower purchase price is important
- You prefer traditional V8 simplicity
- The truck will see heavy work duty
Final Recommendation
For most Regina buyers, the Ford F-150 emerges as the better choice. Its superior fuel economy, advanced winter driving aids, and stronger resale value offset higher initial purchase prices and maintenance costs.
The F-150's aluminum construction and EcoBoost engines represent meaningful technological advantages that benefit daily drivers navigating Regina's diverse conditions - from winter commuting to summer camping trips.
However, buyers prioritizing traditional reliability and lower maintenance costs will find the Silverado's straightforward approach appealing. The V8 engines' simplicity and proven durability make it an excellent choice for commercial users and those planning long-term ownership.
Before making your final decision, we recommend test driving both trucks and consulting with a trusted local dealer. Contact a dealer to arrange comprehensive inspections and discuss financing options that fit your budget.
Regardless of your choice, both trucks offer the capability and reliability Regina drivers demand. Following our complete used car inspection checklist will help ensure you select a quality example that serves you well through many Saskatchewan seasons.
For buyers concerned about winter driving performance, our guide on AWD vs 4WD for Regina winter driving provides additional insights into optimizing your truck's cold-weather capabilities.