2023 Nissan Frontier vs 2024 Ford F-150

The 2023 Nissan Frontier was available in four trim levels: S, SV, Pro-X, and Pro-4X. The model retained its well-received exterior redesign, inspired by the 1986 Nissan Hardbody, and the interior updates introduced in 2022. For 2023, Nissan added a Midnight Edition to the SV trim, featuring blacked-out elements like the grille and wheels. The Pro-X and Pro-4X trims received Lava Red interior accents, enhancing the vehicle's sporty appeal. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were available on both Pro grades, which also featured a six-way power adjustable driver’s seat and a 60/40-split flip-up rear bench seat. The Frontier offered nine exterior color options, including unique shades like “Baja Storm” tan and Tactical Green.

The 2024 Ford F-150 was known for its extensive configurations and trim levels, offering eight different trims and options for cab and bed sizes. The base XL model was basic, while the King Ranch trim offered luxury with features like heated leather seats and wood trim. The F-150 retained its user-friendly physical controls for the HVAC system and stereo, making it easy to operate even with gloves on. The higher trims, such as Lariat and Platinum, received subtle front fascia updates, while the Tremor trim featured more noticeable changes with orange accents. Ford introduced new earth tones for the interior, dubbed "Truffle," available on select trims.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with an optional shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive system. The Frontier's towing capacity reached up to 6,720 pounds, with a maximum payload of 1,610 pounds. The EPA rated its fuel economy at up to 20 mpg combined for RWD models. Nissan focused on improving the Pro-4X trim's ride quality, using 41 new parts to reduce noise levels and enhance comfort. The hydraulic steering system was updated for better maneuverability at low speeds.

The 2024 Ford F-150 offered a range of engine options, with the PowerBoost Hybrid standing out for its 430 horsepower and 570 pound-feet of torque. The 10-speed automatic transmission provided smooth gear changes. The Tremor variant came with a 5.0-liter V8 engine, producing 400 horsepower, and featured off-road enhancements like a 1-inch lift and off-road-tuned shocks. The Raptor R variant boasted a 5.2-liter supercharged V8 with 720 horsepower, designed for high-speed desert running. The F-150's towing capacity reached up to 13,500 pounds with the EcoBoost V6 engine, while the hybrid engine offered a maximum towing rating of 11,200 pounds.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier was available in two cab configurations: the larger Crew Cab and the smaller King Cab. The Crew Cab offered four full-sized doors and a 5-foot bed, with an optional 6-foot bed on the SV trim. The King Cab featured two full-sized doors and two rear access doors, with a standard 6-foot bed. The Frontier's cargo bed volume increased, with the 5-foot bed offering 40.1 cubic feet and the 6-foot bed 46.4 cubic feet. The Pro-4X trim included off-road features like skid plates and Zero Gravity seats for comfort during off-road adventures.

The 2024 Ford F-150 introduced the Pro Access tailgate, which could flip down traditionally or swing open for easier bed access. The truck offered lockable bed storage boxes and a rear bumper step. The Pro Power Assist feature allowed gas-powered trucks to generate 2.0 kW of power, while the PowerBoost hybrid could produce 2.4 kW. The F-150's maximum towing capacity was 13,500 pounds, with a maximum payload of 2,445 pounds. The hybrid engine offered a towing rating of 11,200 pounds and a payload of 1,755 pounds.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier featured wireless Apple CarPlay on Pro-X and Pro-4X trims, with wired connections required for Android Auto. The Pro trims included two USB-A and two USB-C ports, along with a wireless charging pad. Infotainment was delivered through an 8-inch touchscreen on S and SV trims, while Pro-X and Pro-4X received a 9-inch touchscreen. The available 10-speaker Fender premium sound system provided excellent audio quality. The off-road gauge cluster displayed real-time angles when 4WD was engaged, and the Intelligent Around-View Monitor was available on Pro-X and Pro-4X trims.

The 2024 Ford F-150 came standard with a 12-inch touchscreen running SYNC 4, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included a 5G LTE wireless hotspot and wireless charging. A new head-up display provided information on towing, off-roading, and driving assistance. Ford Stolen Vehicle Services was available, allowing owners to track and recover their vehicle if stolen. The F-150 featured Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Smart Hitch technology for easier towing.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier included standard safety features like forward-collision warning, trailer sway control, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. Optional features included lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The NHTSA gave the Frontier a four-star overall safety rating, with a five-star side crash test rating. The IIHS rated the 2022 model Superior for daytime front vehicle-to-pedestrian crash prevention.

The 2024 Ford F-150 came with the Ford CoPilot 360 suite, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The Blue Cruise driving-assist system was available on higher trims, offering hands-free driving. The NHTSA awarded the F-150 a five-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS gave it a "Good" rating for crashworthiness. However, the F-150 received a "Poor" rating for front crash protection for rear-seat passengers.