2023 Ford Ranger vs 2023 Nissan Frontier

What makes a good truck? Capability, handling, and performance are important, but so are the daily comforts and dash technologies that commuters need.

Looking at these two midsize pickups, it will be interesting to see how they measure up against each other. Are they equal or is one better than the other?

1. Which Midsize Truck is More Fun to Drive?

   The Frontier has the edge with 310 horsepower, but that’s not the end of the story. Rangers produce significantly more torque than their Nissan rivals. Plus Rangers have a number of advantages that are not found on the Frontier line-up.

   For instance, the Ford midsize truck uses a modern and very efficient turbo engine while the Nissan midsize truck utilizes a more traditional V6 engine. Adding to Ford’s capability, a 10-speed automatic transmission is used to ensure that the turbo engine utilizes every bit of its power at either end of the spectrum.

   

   Nissan’s hydraulic steering doesn’t respond as well as Ford’s electric power-assisted steering. Known as EPAS, it is an advantage for anyone handling a vehicle, especially if you are hauling or towing.

2. Is the Frontier or Ranger Cheaper to Drive?

   The Ecoboost advantage is evident in the Ranger’s fuel efficiency. Driving the Ford midsize truck (instead of the Frontier) saves about $200 a year at the pump, according to the independent fuel calculator at the US Department of Energy. That’s a savings of $1000 over five years for a Ranger owner.

   Even if you compare the four-wheel drive versions, you’ll find that the Ranger’s turbo maintains its lead in fuel economy. Ford uses a stop-start system to reduce fuel use in the city. If you want to get a competitive loan, our finance department is just a click away. 

3. What is the Cabin Size of the Ranger vs Frontier?

   These two are both around 210 inches in length and have a wheelbase of about 126 inches. Rangers are about five inches wider which does make a difference in both cabin size and bed space.

   The Ranger SuperCab claims more passenger volume than the Frontier KingCab. This allows this Ford midsize truck to offer about four extra inches of legroom to second-row passengers.

   

   In both trucks, front seats offer generous headroom and legroom. The Frontier Crew Cab claims more passenger volume than the Ranger SuperCrew. Yet Rangers maintain their lead in that all-important second-row legroom. It’s easy to see which brand cabin is the best one for adult backseat passengers.

4. Can these Small Pickups Move a Load?

   Both the Frontier and Ranger pickups can haul quite a bit. Frontier payload tops out at 1,610 while Ranger’s top payload is a class-leading 1,905 pounds. These numbers vary with the bed size and the drivetrain.

   

   The two beds are similar in length, but the Ranger bed is deeper and wider. This allows it to claim the most cubic feet of the two trucks.

   As for towing, the Ford Ranger has the best-in-class towing capacity for all midsize gas-powered trucks. This includes the Toyota Tacoma, GMC Canyon and other rivals. For Ranger shoppers, it is reassuring that every suitably equipped Ranger can tow 7500 pounds.

   The Frontier tow rating varies slightly with drivetrain and cab size. When shopping for a truck, we always recommend asking a truck expert at our Ford dealership.

5. What are the Trim Level Choices?

   Nissan midsize trucks are offered in the 4-person King Cab S and SV trim levels. The 5-person Crew Cab is offered in S, SV, and Long Bed SV. Off-roaders will consider the Nissan Frontier Pro-4X trims.

   Rangers are offered in XL, XLT and Lariat trim levels. These take you from a good cabin to a great one.

   The FX2/FX4 packages are offered on all three Ford trims. This allows all 4x4 buyers to enjoy the benefits of Ford Terrain Management. The Tremor off-road package is an option for both the XLT and Lariat.

6. How do Price and Packaging Compare?

   Both vehicles have many packages and trim levels, leading to a wide swing of price points. However, the Ranger price is lower at the start. It has an MSRP of $26,400. This makes it available to more buyers. You can learn about Ford Ranger prices with a quick quote.

   In comparison, the 2023 Frontier S price starts almost $3,000 higher. It is listed at $29,190 MSRP.

   A person can buy the Ranger XLT with its many extra features for a price similar to the Nissan Frontier S base edition. Both have an advanced 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Ford includes dual-zone automatic climate controls.

   At this level both offer driver assistance such as automatic emergency braking. Ford standards, which are in a Frontier S package, include a blind spot monitor, a lane keeping system and automatic high beams. Both offer adaptive cruise control and parking sensors.

Conclusion

These two are very competitive. However, Ford offers a bit more interior space, a more robust bed space, and the top towing and payload numbers. Rangers come in the most affordable packages whether judged by price or standard features.

Plus, this Ford truck provides more off-road choices at a wider range of prices. Finally, it is just as high tech as the Nissan pickup.

If you want to test drive the Ford Ranger, we recommend a trip to your Earnhardt Ford dealer.  Whether it's the 2023 or 2024 Ford Ranger, you will definitely find a better truck than the rival Nissan Frontier.