2022 Toyota Tundra vs 2023 Nissan Frontier

The 2022 Toyota Tundra marked the beginning of its third generation, showcasing a complete redesign from the ground up. This model featured a more dynamic and expressive exterior, highlighted by a large hexagonal grille with various trim-matched patterns and branding. The TRD Pro trim stood out with its retro "TOYOTA" badging and technical camo pattern, which extended into the cabin. The interior was upgraded with premium materials and amenities, including a 14-inch touchscreen display on higher trims, emphasizing its role as a family adventure vehicle. The Tundra's cohesive design linked exterior and interior elements, reflecting a comprehensive redesign.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier retained its well-received exterior redesign inspired by the 1986 Nissan Hardbody, with minimal changes for the new model year. The introduction of the Midnight Edition added a sleek, blacked-out aesthetic to the SV trim. The Pro-4X trim featured unique 17-inch alloy wheels and Lava Red interior accents. The Frontier offered heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and adjustable seating options, enhancing comfort. The nine exterior colour options, including "Baja Storm" tan and Tactical Green, provided a range of choices for buyers seeking a personalized touch.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra introduced two new engines, moving away from the previous 5.7-litre V8. The base i-Force engine, a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6, delivered 389 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, with slightly lower figures for the SR trim. The i-Force Max hybrid powertrain combined the V6 with an electric motor-generator, producing 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Tundra's fuel consumption ranged from 11.8 to 12.2 litres per 100 kilometres, depending on the drivetrain. The new chassis and suspension improved handling, with options for adaptive variable suspension and load-leveling rear-height control. The TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport packages catered to off-road and on-road performance enthusiasts, respectively.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier continued with its 3.8-litre V6 engine, offering 310 hp and 281 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The shift-on-the-fly 4WD system allowed for seamless transitions between RWD and 4WD. Hill-start assist and hill-descent control were standard, enhancing off-road capability. The Pro-4X trim balanced off-road prowess with on-road comfort, featuring Bilstein off-road shock absorbers and a new urethane jounce bumper. The Frontier's towing capacity reached 2,952 kilograms, with a maximum payload of 635 kilograms. Fuel economy was rated at 12.8 L/100 km in the city and 11.6 combined, with slightly higher figures for the Pro-4X.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra offered Double Cab and CrewMax configurations, both accommodating five passengers. The Double Cab provided 846 millimetres of rear seat legroom, while the CrewMax offered a spacious 1,057 mm. Bed options included 6.5-foot and 8.1-foot lengths for the Double Cab, and 5.5-foot and 6.5-foot for the CrewMax. The aluminum-reinforced composite bed saved weight and maintained a payload capacity of up to 880 kilograms. Towing capacity reached 5,443 kilograms, with standard trailer sway control and TOW/HAUL mode. Inside, smart storage solutions and convenient features like a sliding tray in the centre armrest and a 12-volt power tap enhanced functionality.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier came in Crew Cab and King Cab configurations. The Crew Cab offered four full-sized doors and a larger interior space, with a 6-foot bed standard on most trims. The King Cab featured two full-sized doors and two rear access doors, with a 6-foot bed standard. The cargo bed volume increased, with the 5-foot bed offering 1,135 litres and the 6-foot bed 1,314 litres. The hydraulically assisted tailgate provided controlled opening and closing. The Pro-4X trim included aluminum and steel skid plates for off-road protection. Inside, Zero Gravity seats and ample storage options enhanced comfort and practicality.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra featured a new infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen standard on lower trims and a 14-inch display on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Toyota Connected services and a 12-speaker JBL premium audio system on upper grades. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 10.1-inch head-up display were available on higher trims. Off-roaders benefited from the multi-terrain select system, crawl control, and a multi-terrain monitor system, enhancing the Tundra's off-road capabilities.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier introduced wireless Apple CarPlay on the Pro-4X trim, with wired connections for other trims. The Pro-4X featured a 9-inch infotainment system, the largest in its class, and a six-speaker audio system. A 10-speaker Fender premium sound system was available on higher trims. The 7-inch digital gauge cluster, keyless entry, and push-button start were standard across the lineup. The Intelligent Around-View Monitor with off-road mode was offered on the Pro-4X, providing enhanced visibility during off-road adventures.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, including features like a pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. The Star Safety System added enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. Eight airbags, LATCH connectors, and a tire-pressure monitor system were standard. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on most trims.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier featured standard safety features like forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The NHTSA awarded the Frontier a four-star overall safety rating, with a five-star rating for side crashes. The IIHS rated the 2022 model Superior for daytime front vehicle-to-pedestrian crash prevention. Traffic-sign recognition was standard on the Pro-4X trim.