2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vs 2023 Nissan Frontier

The 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 underwent notable changes, especially in the latter part of the year when it rolled new models off the assembly lines in Indiana and Mexico. The Silverado came in various configurations, including regular, extended, and crew cabs, which catered to diverse customer needs. Fresh on the heels of improvement, the Silverado sported updated styling with revised headlights, grille designs, front bumpers, and wheels. Inside, it saw significant enhancements, particularly in the LT and higher trims, which embraced digital instrumentation and a new widescreen infotainment touchscreen, improving both the aesthetic appeal and material quality.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Frontier retained much of its popularity from the previous overhaul in 2022. The Frontier stayed firm, offering four trim levels, but a notable addition was the Midnight Edition on the SV trim, which featured various blacked-out elements, enhancing its visual appeal. Inside, the Frontier embraced subtle yet appreciated enhancements, such as Lava Red interior accents and available heated seating options, reinforcing its commitment to comfort combined with rugged utility.

The Silverado 1500's ZR2 model, priced around $76,095, focused on off-road capability, sporting a 6.2-liter V8 delivering 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. However, it lagged behind competitors in engine output, although its Multimatic DSSV dampers and long-travel springs facilitated a smooth and resilient performance across challenging terrains and city landscapes alike. Despite its substantial capabilities, the ZR2's fuel efficiency stood at a modest 16.3 mpg from rigorous testing.

On the other hand, the Nissan Frontier continued with its robust 3.8-liter V6 engine, outputting a healthy 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque. Its nine-speed automatic transmission showcased adequate gearing in urban settings, though it occasionally struggled with frequent downshifts on highways. The Frontier also offered an advanced 4WD system, enhancing its off-road and on-road balance, which was further refined through a meticulously engineered suspension for improved ride comfort.

The interior of the Silverado ZR2 was accessible via robust grab handles and optional high-clearance side steps, though getting in and out still required effort. Its cargo space was voluminous, complemented by a multifunctional MultiFlex tailgate and high-quality bed materials. Inside, the Silverado flaunted upscale touches like 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated seats and a modernized dashboard with substantial storage solutions.

Conversely, the Frontier's interior, particularly in the Pro-4X, was utilitarian yet comfortable, with standard Zero Gravity seats and newly introduced under-rail bed lighting enhancing its utility. The cargo beds, available in 5-foot and 6-foot sizes, offered substantial storage ranging from 40.1 to 46.4 cubic feet, respectively. Designed with practicality in mind, the Frontier also featured hydraulic assistance for the tailgate for ease of operation.

Technology in the Silverado included a new 13.4-inch touchscreen with connectivity upgrades like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Despite the larger screen, the user interface faced some challenges with responsiveness and intuitiveness. The audio experience was enhanced by a revised Bose sound system that significantly improved audio quality.

The Frontier maintained technological competitiveness with updates like standard wireless Apple CarPlay on higher trims and a mixture of USB ports. The infotainment system included up to a 9-inch touchscreen on higher trims, supplemented by a Fender premium sound system that robustly handled diverse music genres. Nissan also kept practical tech features like a 7-inch digital gauge cluster standard across all trims.

Safety in the Silverado was bolstered by standard Chevy Safety Assist on all models, although higher trims provided additional features like Super Cruise. The Silverado’s advanced driver assistance systems refined the driving experience with accurate and reliable operations.

The Frontier was equipped with essential safety features like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking across all trims, with additional features available on higher trims or as optional upgrades. Its safety ratings included a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, reflecting a strong commitment to passenger safety.