2022 Nissan Frontier vs 2023 Ford F-150

The 2022 Nissan Frontier emerged as a key player in Nissan's "Nissan Next" strategy, marking a significant redesign in the midsize pickup truck segment. With its rugged, blocky styling reminiscent of the classic Nissan Hardbody pickups from the 1980s and 1990s, the Frontier presented a bold new look. Designed by Hiren Patel, the truck's exterior was crafted to appear as if it was machined from 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 of two interior shades. The truck's dimensions were slightly larger than its predecessor, yet it remained compact enough for easy parking and garage storage. The Frontier targeted competitors like the Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma, offering configurations such as the King Cab and Crew Cab, with various bed lengths and optional features like a spray-in bedliner and LED bed lighting.

In contrast, the 2023 Ford F-150 maintained its status as a versatile full-size, light-duty pickup truck with a vast array of configurations. Buyers could choose from regular, extended (Super Cab), and crew cab (SuperCrew) styles, paired with different cargo bed lengths. The F-150's design was familiar and appealing, avoiding any polarizing elements. Inside, the truck adopted a modular approach, focusing on functionality with ample storage options. The test truck featured the Ford Work Surface upgrade, although some interior elements, like the shifter and steering wheel controls, felt less refined. Despite these minor drawbacks, the F-150's cloth seats provided comfort in varying weather conditions, and the truck's overall design remained appealing.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier was powered by a 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering class-leading 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 maximum payload of 635 kilograms. While not class-leading, these figures were competitive. The truck's 4WD system included 4-Hi and 4-Lo modes, along with features like hill start assist and hill descent control. Fuel efficiency was estimated at 13.7 L/100 km in the city and 10.6 on the highway. The PRO-4X trim offered off-road capabilities with features like an electronic locking rear differential and Bilstein shock absorbers.

The 2023 Ford F-150 offered a range of engine options, with the test truck featuring a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6, producing 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided smooth and responsive performance. The F-150's maximum towing capacity reached 6,350 kilograms, with a payload rating of 1,503 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The truck's ride quality varied, with the standard suspension feeling harsh when unloaded but improving with added weight. Fuel efficiency was estimated at 12.1 L/100 km combined, though the test truck averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The F-150's steering and braking systems were reliable, and the truck remained quiet at highway speeds.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier excelled in comfort and capability, particularly in the front seats, thanks to Nissan's Zero Gravity technology. The truck offered ample storage options, surpassing competitors like the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon. While the Crew Cab provided adequate rear-seat space, the King Cab's rear seats were less accommodating. The Frontier featured eight cupholders and additional storage beneath the rear seats, making it a practical choice for families and adventurers alike.

The 2023 Ford F-150 provided comfortable seating for five, with power-adjustable front seats and pedals. The truck's interior offered abundant storage, including a large bin under the front centre armrest and various trays and cubbies. The rear seats could be flipped up or folded flat for added cargo space. The test truck's cargo bed featured a spray-in bedliner and the Pro Power Onboard system, though accessing the bed was challenging without the optional tailgate step.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier saw significant advancements in technology, with a standard 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 9-inch screen on the PRO-4X. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and buttons for easy navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though wireless projection was not supported. The PRO-4X trim included wireless charging and Wi-Fi hotspot capability, with an optional 10-speaker Fender audio system available.

The 2023 Ford F-150 featured the Sync 4 infotainment system with a 12-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The system was easy to use, though it could benefit from bolder graphics. The test truck included remote engine starting, trailer-brake controller, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist. The On Board Scales with Smart Hitch helped prevent overloading and assisted with trailer weight management.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive suite of safety features under Nissan Safety Shield 360. These included blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and more. Eight airbags were standard, and the PRO-4X trim offered traffic sign recognition.

The 2023 Ford F-150 came equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0, which included a range of advanced driver assistance systems. These features included automatic high-beam headlights, forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. The F-150 received high crash-test ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, with a four-star rollover resistance rating.