2023 Nissan Frontier vs 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD, redesigned for the 2020 model year, boasted a bold exterior with a tall hood, squared-off lines, and a massive grille, giving it a commanding presence. While its exterior was considered one of the better-looking heavy-duty trucks, the interior fell short in material quality compared to competitors like Ram and Ford. Despite being functional and spacious, the cabin lacked the luxury feel expected in top trims. The Sierra 2500HD was available in five trims, each offering a unique experience, from the basic Pro trim to the luxurious Denali. The AT4 trim, which we tested, was designed for off-road enthusiasts, featuring rugged aesthetics and premium interior amenities, making it a handsome luxury off-roader.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Frontier, inspired by the 1986 Nissan Hardbody, retained its well-received exterior redesign and interior from the previous year. The 2023 model introduced a Midnight Edition with blacked-out features and unique wheels for the Pro-4X trim. The Frontier offered six trims in Canada, with heated seats and a power-adjustable driver's seat available on most. The nine exterior colour options added to its appeal. The Frontier's interior was designed for comfort, with Zero Gravity seats and ample storage, making it a practical choice for both off-road adventures and daily commutes.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD was equipped with a 6.6-litre V8 engine, available in both gas and turbodiesel variants. The Duramax diesel engine delivered 445 horsepower and 910 pound-feet of torque, paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission. Despite its impressive power, it was outperformed by competitors like the Ford F-250 Super Duty and Ram 2500 in towing capacity. The Sierra 2500HD's maximum payload was 1,637 kilograms, and it could tow up to 8,391 kilograms. The AT4 trim excelled in off-road capabilities, featuring a 4WD system with an automatic-locking rear differential, off-road suspension, and all-terrain tires. The ride was smooth with a load but jittery when unladen, and the truck's raw power was evident in its quick acceleration.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier featured a 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Frontier's 4WD system allowed for easy shifting between RWD and 4WD, with hill-start assist and hill-descent control enhancing its off-road performance. The Pro-4X trim balanced off-road capability with on-road comfort, thanks to its Bilstein shock absorbers and improved suspension. The Frontier's towing capacity was 2,952 kilograms, with a maximum payload of 635 kilograms. Its fuel economy was rated at 12.8 L/100 km in the city and 10.2 on the highway, making it a more efficient choice for everyday use.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered three cab configurations and two bed lengths, accommodating up to six passengers. The interior was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom. The AT4 package added extra lift, making entry a bit challenging, but the side assist step provided traction. The Sierra 2500HD featured a wide centre console, dual glove boxes, and hidden storage compartments. The MultiPro tailgate, available on higher trims, offered six functions for improved cargo access, and the truck was equipped with multiple power outlets and USB ports for convenience.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier was available in Crew Cab and King Cab configurations, with bed lengths of 5 or 6 feet. The Crew Cab offered more interior space, while the King Cab was more compact. The Frontier's cargo bed volume was increased, with LED under-rail lighting and a hydraulically assisted tailgate for easy access. The Pro-4X trim included skid plates for off-road protection. Inside, the Frontier featured Zero Gravity seats and ample storage, with a centre console offering 4 litres of space. The interior was designed for practicality and comfort, making it suitable for various driving conditions.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of infotainment options, with 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreens depending on the trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard on higher trims, and a navigation system was available. The Bose premium audio system provided rich sound, though the voice-recognition system had some quirks. The Sierra's 15 camera views, including a "transparent trailer" view, enhanced safety and convenience, making it easier to tow and manoeuvre.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier featured wireless Apple CarPlay on the Pro-4X trim, with wired connections for other trims. The Pro-4X had a 9-inch infotainment system, the largest in its class, and a 10-speaker Fender premium sound system. The Frontier included a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, keyless entry, and push-button start. The Intelligent Around-View Monitor with off-road mode was available on the Pro-4X, providing a comprehensive view of the surroundings.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Teen Driver system was standard, allowing parents to monitor their teen's driving habits. The Sierra's mass provided safety in collisions but posed risks to smaller vehicles and pedestrians. The truck's numerous camera views were essential for safety, though it lacked crashworthiness ratings from NHTSA and IIHS due to its high GVWR.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier came standard with forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Pro-4X trim included traffic-sign recognition. The NHTSA gave the Frontier a four-star overall safety rating, with high marks in side crash tests but lower scores in frontal crash and rollover tests. The IIHS rated the 2022 model highly for crash prevention and seat belt reminders, though it had not tested the 2023 model.