2022 Nissan Frontier vs 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD

The 2022 Nissan Frontier emerged as a key player in Nissan's "Nissan Next" strategy, marking a significant redesign in the midsize pickup truck segment. With its rugged, blocky styling reminiscent of the classic Nissan Hardbody pickups from the 1980s and 1990s, the Frontier presented a bold new look. The design process, led by Hiren Patel, involved crafting the truck's shape from a solid block of metal, resulting in a robust and modern aesthetic. Available in nine exterior colours and two interior shades, the Frontier offered a variety of customization options. The truck's dimensions were slightly larger than its predecessor, yet it remained compact enough for easy parking and garage storage. The Frontier targeted competitors like the Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma, offering configurations such as the King Cab and Crew Cab, with bed lengths of 5 or 6 feet. Inside, the Frontier boasted significant improvements, including Nissan's Zero Gravity seats and enhanced insulation for a quieter ride. The truck also featured a new centre console with ample storage and over 80 optional accessories for customization.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD, redesigned for the 2020 model year, showcased a bold exterior with a tall hood, squared-off lines, and a massive grille, giving it a commanding presence. While the exterior design was impressive, the interior fell short in terms of material quality compared to competitors like Ram and Ford. The Sierra 2500HD was available in five trim levels and three cab configurations, offering versatility for different needs. The Pro trim catered to those seeking capability without frills, while the AT4 and Denali trims provided off-road and luxury options, respectively. Our test vehicle, the AT4 trim, featured rugged design elements and a well-appointed interior with premium materials and advanced technology. Despite its shortcomings in interior space compared to rivals, the Sierra 2500HD offered a functional and spacious cabin with convenient storage solutions and innovative features like the MultiPro tailgate.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier was powered by a 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering class-leading power specs of 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. This engine, retuned for the heavier 2022 model, provided strong acceleration and ample passing power on highways. The Frontier's powertrain included a nine-speed automatic transmission with a tow mode for improved performance under load. It had a maximum payload of 635 kilograms and a towing capacity of 2,944 kilograms. While not class-leading, these figures were competitive. The Frontier's fuel efficiency was estimated at 13.7 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 10.6 on the highway, and 12.3 combined. The truck featured a hydraulic rack and pinion steering system, offering a heavier steering feel compared to competitors. The PRO-4X trim provided off-road capabilities with features like an electronic locking rear differential, Bilstein shock absorbers, and skid plates.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered two powerful engine options: a standard 6.6-litre V8 and an optional Duramax diesel engine paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission. The Duramax diesel engine delivered 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque, providing abundant power for towing and hauling. The Sierra 2500HD had a maximum payload capacity of 1,637 kilograms and a towing capacity of 8,391 kilograms. While not the most capable in its class, the Sierra 2500HD excelled in off-road performance, especially in the AT4 trim. The AT4 featured an automatic-locking rear differential, a two-speed transfer case, and an off-road suspension with Rancho shocks. The truck handled off-road terrain with ease, although the ride could be jittery on uneven pavement. The Sierra 2500HD's 15 available camera views, including the "transparent trailer" view, enhanced towing and off-road capabilities.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier offered a comfortable and spacious interior, particularly in the front seats, thanks to Nissan's Zero Gravity seats. The truck provided convenient storage options, surpassing competitors like the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon. While the Crew Cab offered manageable headroom and legroom for backseat passengers, the King Cab's rear seats were more suitable for storage than passengers. The Frontier featured eight cupholders and additional storage beneath the rear seat in the Crew Cab. Overall, the Frontier's interior comfort and functionality set it apart in the midsize pickup segment.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD provided ample passenger space in all seating positions, accommodating up to six passengers with a front-row bench seat. The truck's size and AT4 package made entry a bit challenging, but the side assist step and corner-step rear bumper aided access. Inside, the Sierra 2500HD offered a wide and deep centre console, dual glove boxes, and hidden storage compartments in the rear seats. The truck featured a 120-volt power outlet, USB ports, and a wireless charging pad for added convenience. The MultiPro tailgate, available on higher trims, offered six functions to improve loading and unloading.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier saw significant advancements in technology, with a standard 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 9-inch screen on the PRO-4X. The infotainment system featured physical knobs and buttons for easy navigation, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The PRO-4X trim included wireless charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 10-speaker Fender audio system. The Frontier's technology offerings were user-friendly and enhanced the overall driving experience.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of infotainment systems, with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard on higher trims, along with a navigation system. The Sierra 2500HD featured hitch guidance, Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a WiFi hotspot. The Bose premium audio system provided rich sound, although the voice-recognition system had some quirks. The truck's 15 camera views, including the "transparent trailer" view, enhanced towing and safety.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features under Nissan Safety Shield 360. These included blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Frontier also featured eight airbags and traffic sign recognition on the PRO-4X trim.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of advanced safety and driver-assistive features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Teen Driver system was standard, allowing parents to monitor their teen's driving habits. The Sierra 2500HD's mass provided safety benefits in collisions, but it also posed risks to smaller vehicles and pedestrians. The truck's numerous camera views and safety systems were recommended for added peace of mind.