2020 Nissan Frontier vs 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty

The 2020 Nissan Frontier retained a design reminiscent of its 2005 predecessor, which had aged gracefully. The PRO-4X trim added a rugged appeal with features like a tube-style roof rack, unique alloy wheels, and distinctive graphics. Available in King Cab and Crew Cab styles, the Frontier offered various trims and packages, including the Value Truck Package and Utility Package. The interior, though dated, was solidly built, with a nostalgic nod to mid-2000s Nissan designs. Despite the hard plastic materials, the cabin was free from squeaks and rattles, showcasing the truck's durability.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty exuded luxury and capability, especially in the Limited trim. Its Iconic Silver paint and chrome accents gave it a stately presence. The interior was spacious and plush, with leather seats and a high-end audio system. The F-350 came in multiple trims, from the utilitarian XL to the opulent Limited, and offered various cab styles and bed lengths. The test truck featured a crew cab with a single-rear-wheel axle and a standard bed, powered by a turbodiesel V8 engine. The F-350's interior was luxurious, with leather, wood, and aluminum accents, and a panoramic sunroof that enhanced the cabin's ambiance.

The 2020 Nissan Frontier was equipped with a new 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain replaced the older engines and offered improved fuel economy, with RWD models achieving a combined 19 mpg. The Frontier's acceleration was strong, and the transmission provided smooth shifts. However, the steering was heavy, and the turning radius was wide. The PRO-4X trim's off-road shocks absorbed bumps well but allowed road vibrations to permeate the cabin.

The 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty, with its 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8, delivered an impressive 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. Despite its size, the F-350 averaged 15.4 mpg on a testing loop and 16.5 mpg during a week of highway driving. The diesel engine provided robust performance, and the 10-speed automatic transmission handled towing and hauling with ease. The Tremor off-road package enhanced the truck's off-road capabilities, while adaptive steering improved maneuverability. However, the F-350's size made urban driving and parking challenging, and the ride could be harsh when unloaded.

The 2020 Nissan Frontier offered practical storage solutions, including dual glove compartments and a center armrest bin. The PRO-4X trim featured an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, though long drives could become uncomfortable. Rear seat space was limited, typical for midsize pickups, and lacked modern conveniences like rear air vents and USB ports. The Frontier's bed, with a spray-in liner and Utili-Track system, could handle a 1,020-pound payload but was shallow at 18 inches deep.

The 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty's crew cab provided ample space for five passengers, with power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats. The interior offered generous storage, including a large center console and dual glove compartments. Rear-seat comfort was notable, with heated seats and air vents. The cargo bed, accessible via an integrated tailgate step, featured the BoxLink system for securing loads. The F-350's bed was well-suited for hauling, though accessing it required some effort.

The 2020 Nissan Frontier's technology was basic, with a 5.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system offering navigation, satellite radio, and a Rockford Fosgate sound system. However, it lacked modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The voice recognition system worked adequately, but the technology felt outdated.

The 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty featured an 8-inch touchscreen with the Sync 3 infotainment system, which included smartphone integration, navigation, and a B&O sound system. While the screen size was a drawback, especially for parking and towing features, the system offered comprehensive functionality. The F-350 also provided numerous driver information displays and optional trailer cameras, enhancing its utility.

The 2020 Nissan Frontier's safety ratings were concerning, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and poor frontal-impact scores. The IIHS rated it "marginal" in small overlap frontal-impact tests. Safety features were limited to a reversing camera, antilock brakes, traction control, and stability control, lacking modern driver-assistance technologies.

The 2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty, while lacking official crash-test data, offered a robust suite of driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The truck's weight provided an advantage in collisions with smaller vehicles, but drivers were encouraged to use the available safety technologies to ensure the safety of all road users.