2023 Nissan Frontier vs 2023 RAM 1500

In Canada, the 2023 Nissan Frontier was available in six trim levels: S, SV Convenience, SV, Pro-4X, Midnight Edition, and SV Premium. The model retained its well-received exterior redesign, inspired by the 1986 Nissan Hardbody, and the interior updates introduced in 2022. For 2023, the lineup saw the addition of the Midnight Edition on the SV trim, featuring blacked-out elements like the grille and wheels. The Pro-4X trim boasted unique 17-inch alloy wheels and Lava Red interior accents. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were available on all trims except the base S, and the crew cab models included a 60/40-split flip-up rear bench seat. The Frontier offered nine exterior colour options, including “Baja Storm” tan and Tactical Green.

The 2023 RAM 1500 was offered in a quad cab or larger crew cab with a choice of bed lengths. The Limited trim, near the top of the eight available trims, featured a $3,895 Night Edition for a stealthier look with 22-inch black aluminum wheels. Inside, the Limited trim treated drivers to leather seats with contrasting stitching and open-pore wood on the dash. The 12-inch portrait-oriented screen provided a unique interior look, complemented by chunky volume controls and a Ram logo on the dash. The Limited logo between the seats ensured drivers never forgot which truck they were in.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier continued with its 3.8-litre V6 engine, producing 310 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The shift-on-the-fly 4WD system was standard in Canada, allowing drivers to switch 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 smoother suspension. The Frontier had a towing capacity of up to 2,952 kg and a maximum payload of 635 kg. Fuel economy ratings were 12.8 L/100 km city, 10.2 highway, and 11.6 combined, with the Pro-4X slightly higher.

The 2023 RAM 1500 offered a choice of RWD or 4WD and several engine options, including a 3.6-litre V6 with eTorque, a 5.7-litre Hemi V8, and a 3.0-litre EcoDiesel. The TRX trim featured a supercharged 6.2-litre V8. The eTorque system provided extra power and improved fuel economy, with the V8 producing 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. The 8-speed automatic transmission shifted smoothly, and the coilover rear suspension offered a comfortable ride. The RAM 1500 had a maximum towing capacity of 5,783 kg and a payload of up to 1,043 kg. Fuel economy for the V8 4WD eTorque was rated at 13.5 L/100 km city, 10.5 highway, and 12.1 combined.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier was available in two cab configurations: Crew Cab and King Cab. The Crew Cab offered more interior space and was available with a 6-foot bed, while the Pro-4X trim had a 5-foot bed. The King Cab had a 6-foot bed and was smaller inside. The Frontier featured LED under-rail bed lighting, a spray-in bedliner, and increased cargo bed volume. The hydraulically assisted tailgate opened slowly and could be closed with one hand. The Pro-4X trim included skid plates for off-road protection. Inside, Zero Gravity seats provided comfort, and the interior offered ample storage space.

The 2023 RAM 1500 featured numerous storage options, including a two-tiered centre console and a large centre console for laptops and other items. The front seats were heated and cooled, with eight-way adjustments, and power-adjustable pedals were standard on the Limited trim. The crew cab offered ample rear legroom, and the rear seats reclined up to eight degrees. The multifunction tailgate could open like a 60/40 split door or a traditional tailgate. The RamBox storage system provided lockable storage in the rear quarter panel.

For 2023, the Nissan Frontier Pro-4X trim came with wireless Apple CarPlay, while other trims required a wired connection. The Pro trim featured USB-A and USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, and two 120-volt power outlets. Infotainment was hosted on an 8-inch touchscreen for most trims, with a 9-inch system on the Pro-4X. The Pro-4X also offered a 10-speaker Fender premium sound system. A 7-inch digital gauge cluster, keyless entry, and push-button start were standard. The Pro-4X included an off-road gauge cluster and Nissan’s Intelligent Around-View Monitor.

The 2023 RAM 1500 received a tech upgrade with a new 12-inch gauge cluster, although it was not on our tester. Lower trims had a 5-inch screen, while mid trims had an 8.4-inch touchscreen. The upper trims featured a 12-inch touchscreen, allowing for dual-function display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, though CarPlay had some lag. The optional Equipment Group 1 added a head-up display and digital rearview mirror. The RAM 1500 Limited had multiple USB outlets, a wireless charging pad, and 115-volt and 12-volt outlets.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier came with standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, trailer sway control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall safety rating, with a five-star side crash test score. The IIHS rated the 2022 model Superior for daytime front vehicle-to-pedestrian crash prevention.

The 2023 RAM 1500 lacked standard advanced driver-assist systems, with features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control being optional. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS gave it Good marks, except for Marginal grades for seat belt reminders and LATCH ease of use.