So a HiLux or Ranger just won't cut it, and you really need a dual cab ute with a bit
more fire power.
Enter the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and the RAM 1500 pickup.
But which one is better for towing?
Let's hitch up some caravans to find out.
These big bold American pickups have a lot in common.
Both are converted to right-hand drive by HSV and feature gas guzzling V8 petrol engines,
super-sized cabins and four and a half ton towing capacities.
Both offer similar sized trays with tub liners and lockable tailgates, although the optional
esky-style cargo boxes in the RAM do cut into available load space.
However, they most differ when it comes to pricing and the amount of standard equipment
fitted.
The RAM comes with a 5.7 litre V8 and 8-speed auto, whereas the Chev comes with a more powerful
6.2 litre V8 and 10 speed auto transmission.
The Chev also has loads more safety technology and gets some external features like a powered
sunroof, tailgate and sliding rear window.
But all those extras don't come cheap as a Chev costs a whopping $24,000 more than the
RAM.
Both vehicles are set up well for towing, with wanted features like big side mirrors,
an integrated electric brake controller, reversing camera and trailer sway control.
Starting in the RAM, it's a fairly utilitarian American truck interior with highlights the
big touch screen display, digital trip computer and comfy club seats.
The reversing camera in the RAM is a bit low rent and difficult to see in shady conditions.
So now, we're in the Chev, and while there's a similar amount of space as the RAM, the
whole cabin has a more of an upmarket presentation, and there's a lot more storage options for
your gear.
The reversing camera in the Chev gives more information, including a hitch guidance with
hitch view feature and other handy towing info that the RAM doesn't get, which makes
the whole experience a bit easier.
Both vehicles come with a heavy duty towing set up, including trailer wiring and plug,
so you're all set to tow up to four and a half tons.
However, a big problem with both vehicles is if you are towing the full 4,500 kilograms,
you are severely limited in how much weight you can then carry in the vehicle.
Basically you're left with less than a 100 kilogram payload for people and gear in both
vehicles, which isn't much.
Hitched up to an almost 3 ton caravan, the RAM stays fairly level, with just some slight
sag in the rear suspension, while the Chev hitched up to a similar weight caravan, sets
up equally well balanced, promising a nice stable ride out on the road.
So there's no doubt the RAM delivers plenty of grunt for towing, although the engine is
just a little bit noisy across the rev range, and you do need a few more revs when overtaking
or going up hills.
With its long wheel base and 2.6 ton kerb weight, the RAM feels nice and stable at highway
speeds with a pretty smooth ride over most surfaces.
So in the Chev, and you can feel the additional torque, while the engine and transmission
feel a little bit smoother, which gives it a slight edge when it comes to towing performance.
It's just as well-mannered when towing a heavy van, but there's a bit more in reserve when
overtaking or going up hills.
Both vehicles like to guzzle fuel when towing, the Chev slightly better than the RAM, although
the RAM has a bigger fuel tank, so should go further between fuel stops.
The Chev also pips the RAM in in-cabin comfort and technology with features like heated powered
seats and wireless phone charging that the mid-spec RAM misses out on.
Although less important for towing, the RAM also misses out on much of the Chev's driver
safety technology, including autonomous emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.
It's also got a handy button for the hand brake compared to the frustrating foot-operated
brake in the RAM.
Back-seat passengers in both vehicles have plenty of space and good storage, along with
vents and sockets for charging electronics.
However, the rear seats in the Chev are more supportive and relaxing to sit in.
So if heavy duty towing is on the menu, either of these American pickups will do the job.
But with all the latest safety tech, as well as the extra performance and towing features,
we'd opt for the Chev over the cheaper RAM if the budget permits.