2022 Nissan Frontier vs 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

After 17 years, the Nissan Frontier has received a much-needed overhaul for its 2022 iteration. The new model boasts significant updates in styling, powertrain, cabin comfort, and off-road capabilities, setting it apart from its predecessors and competitors. The Frontier still uses the same platform as the older model but has been extensively modified to offer a fresh experience that targets rivals from Ford, General Motors, and Toyota with a keen eye on the Toyota Tacoma. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, in its 2022 refresh, aims to appeal to both the aesthetic and practical needs of truck owners. With improvements starting from the LT trim, the Silverado introduces a revamped interior, a new off-road performance model in the ZR2, and a series of updates that enhance its appeal and functionality.

In terms of performance, CarGurus rates both vehicles a 7 out of 10. The Frontier's 3.8-liter V6 engine delivers a solid 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque, providing strong acceleration and adequate towing capabilities. It combines this power with a nine-speed automatic transmission and an off-road-focused PRO-4X trim for those seeking adventure. The Silverado 1500 ZR2, designed with off-roading in mind, offers a 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Despite not leading in power among its rivals, the ZR2 excels in off-road suspension technology and durability, offering a balanced performance for both daily driving and off-road excursions.

The Nissan Frontier earns a 9 out of 10 in this category, standing out for its blend of comfort and utility. The front seats, equipped with Nissan's Zero Gravity technology, set a high comfort standard uncommon in the midsize pickup truck segment. While it excels in front-seat comfort and storage solutions, the Frontier’s rear seating in the Crew Cab offers limited space, and the King Cab's rear seats are suitable only for storage, not passengers. Despite these limitations, the Frontier offers practical features like an available spray-in bedliner, LED bed lighting, and a three-channel tie-down system, enhancing its functionality. Its towing capacity is noted at 6,720 pounds with a maximum payload of 1,610 pounds, figures that are competitive but not class-leading. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, scoring an 8 out of 10, impresses with its spacious and comfortable interior, especially in the crew cab configuration. Both front and rear seats provide ample legroom, headroom, and comfort features such as heating and ventilation for the front seats and heating for the rear seats. The interior design marks a significant improvement over previous models, with modern touches and enhanced materials contributing to a more sophisticated cabin atmosphere. The Silverado ZR2, despite its focus on off-road capabilities, manages a towing capacity of up to 8,900 pounds and a payload of 1,440 pounds, reflecting its balance between performance and utility. Additional practical features include the MultiFlex tailgate and an array of storage solutions, making the Silverado 1500 a strong contender for those who need a truck that is both comfortable for passengers and capable of handling demanding tasks.

Technology in the Frontier is highly rated at 10 out of 10, featuring an intuitive infotainment system with physical controls and optional safety and convenience packages. The Silverado's tech earns an 8 out of 10, with a large touchscreen and wireless connectivity but some usability concerns compared to its predecessor.

Both trucks score a 7 out of 10 in safety, with the Frontier offering a comprehensive suite of standard advanced driver-assistance systems and the Silverado introducing Chevy Safety Assist as standard across all trims.

The Frontier shines with a 9 out of 10 rating, offering a competitive starting price and a strong value proposition against its closest competitors, particularly when considering its standard V6 engine and comprehensive feature set. The Silverado scores a 7 out of 10, with its value proposition leaning heavily on its off-road capabilities and brand loyalty, despite being less powerful than some competitors.