2022 Ford F-150 Lightning vs 2022 Nissan Frontier

The 2022 Nissan Frontier emerged as a key player in Nissan's "Nissan Next" strategy, marking a significant redesign in the midsize pickup segment. Its rugged, blocky styling paid homage to the classic Nissan Hardbody pickups of the past. Designed by Hiren Patel, the Frontier's aesthetic was likened to sculpting a solid block of metal. Available in nine exterior colours, including the exclusive Baja Storm for the PRO-4X trim, the Frontier offered a choice between King Cab and Crew Cab configurations. The interior featured Nissan’s Zero Gravity seats and improved insulation, making it a comfortable ride. With a focus on customization, Nissan provided over 80 optional accessories, enhancing the Frontier's appeal to off-road enthusiasts.

The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning, despite being a groundbreaking electric vehicle, maintained a familiar appearance akin to traditional F-150 models. Available in XLT, Lariat, and Platinum trims, the Lightning featured a crew cab and a 5.5-foot bed. Its distinctive LED headlight bar and faux grille set it apart from its gas-powered counterparts. Inside, the Lightning offered spacious seating with impressive legroom, making it suitable for family use. The Lariat trim boasted a panoramic sunroof and ample power outlets, including a 240-volt outlet in the bed. The Lightning's interior work surface feature added practicality, transforming the cabin into a versatile workspace.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier was powered by a 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, provided strong acceleration and ample passing power. The Frontier's towing capacity reached 2,944 kilograms, with a payload of 635 kilograms. Its hydraulic steering system offered a heavier feel, appealing to traditional truck enthusiasts. The PRO-4X trim enhanced off-road capabilities with features like Bilstein shocks and skid plates, while a best-in-class approach angle of 32.3 degrees made it adept at tackling rough terrain.

The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning stood out with its dual electric motors, offering 426 horsepower with the standard range battery and 563 horsepower with the extended range. Regardless of the battery, it delivered an impressive 775 lb-ft of torque. The Lightning's range varied from 370 kilometres with the standard battery to 515 kilometres with the extended version. Its independent rear suspension and low centre of gravity improved handling, though its substantial weight limited cornering agility. The Lightning's towing capacity reached 4,535 kilograms, with a payload of 907 kilograms, though heavy loads impacted its range.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier excelled in front-seat comfort, thanks to its Zero Gravity seats, and offered practical storage solutions. The Crew Cab provided adequate rear-seat space, though the King Cab's rear seats were less accommodating. With eight cupholders and under-seat storage, the Frontier prioritized convenience and utility.

The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning featured a 5.5-foot bed with ample tie-down points, complemented by the innovative 400-litre Mega Power Frunk. This front trunk included an underfloor storage bin with a drain, ideal for keeping items cold. The Lightning's Ford Intelligent Backup Power feature allowed it to serve as a backup generator, powering a household for up to three days. Onboard scales and intelligent range estimates helped manage towing and payload impacts on range.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier saw significant technological advancements, with an 8-inch touchscreen standard on lower trims and a 9-inch screen on the PRO-4X. The interface was user-friendly, featuring physical knobs and buttons for essential functions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though wireless connectivity was absent. The PRO-4X offered wireless charging and a Wi-Fi hotspot, with an optional 10-speaker Fender audio system available.

The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning impressed with its technology, featuring a 12-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 15-inch portrait-oriented screen on higher trims. While visually striking, the larger screen's layout was less intuitive. The Lariat trim included a wireless charging pad and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system also offered games, providing entertainment during charging sessions.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier came equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering features like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. Eight airbags were standard, and the PRO-4X trim included traffic sign recognition. While crash-test ratings were pending, improvements over the previous generation were anticipated.

The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning featured Ford's Co-Pilot 360 system, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot warning. Additional options included Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Ford BlueCruise, a hands-free driving system with a driver-facing camera for safety.