2023 Ford Ranger vs 2023 Nissan Frontier

How can you compare two midsize trucks? You’ve got to look at how much room passengers have, how much space there is for cargo, and how much you get for your money.

If the truck can meet all of these benchmarks, it’s probably a good truck for you. Keep scrolling to learn more about the 2023 model year for the Nissan Frontier vs Ford Ranger.

1. Cabin Size and Passenger Space

   If you look at these two trucks side by side, you’ll notice that they are the same length but not the same width. Ford has made the Ranger five inches wider. This leads to more space in every way that counts within the cabin.

   The Frontier KingCab and Ford Ranger SuperCab are 4-seat models with rear half doors. The second row seats flip up for extra cargo space. SuperCabs have almost four extra cubic feet of passenger space. Backseat passengers enjoy 4.2 inches of extra legroom.

   

   The Ranger SuperCrew and Frontier Crew Cab are 5-seat models with full double doors. Passenger volume is rated at about 3 cubes more in the Nissan. However, you’ll still find the most second-row legroom in the Ford.

   If you don’t need the second row, then the Nissan size won’t bother you. If you do need the backseat for adults or even for kid’s carseats, you’ll be glad you have the Ranger.

2. Performance and Handling Considerations

   You could say that these two trucks offer the same performance. They just achieve it differently. The Frontier produces more horsepower with its traditional V6 engine while the Ranger produces a serious level of torque with its more efficient turbo four engine.

   

   When it comes to handling, the Ranger’s more sophisticated electric power steering is easier to use than the older hydraulic steering on the Frontier. Plus, the Ranger has a tighter turning diameter and an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission.

3. Bed Size and Carrying Capacity

   Ford Rangers can tow 7,500 pounds with the standard towing package. This gives them best-in-class tow ratings for all gas-powered midsize trucks.

   The tow rating varies with different Frontier sizes. The rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drivetrains also affect tow ratings. At its best, the Nissan Frontier can pull 6,690 pounds. While that is admirable, it is 800 pounds less than the Ranger.

   Only the Ranger can tow as well as some light duty trucks. That’s what makes the Ford special in the midsize class.

   

   When it comes to bed sizes, the lengths are basically the same. Frontiers have a small lead of about an inch in its long beds.

   However, if you look at the bed volume, you’ll notice that Rangers have more in both the short and long beds. That’s because the Ranger truck is wider and its bed is deeper than its Nissan rival.

4. Price and Ownership Costs

   Saving $3000 or more at purchase, the 2023 Ford Ranger XL is sure to attract budget-minded buyers. This includes many businesses and tradespeople who need a truck for business. Since the Ranger can tow more than some larger trucks, this makes the Ranger an especially appealing option. You can learn more about Ranger prices with a quick quote.

   Of course, there are many intersections between the two trucks as you climb the trim ladder. That’s why it is useful to compare both the cost of the truck and its standard features as we do in the next section.

   When it comes to ownership costs, the Ranger’s class-leading fuel economy has a big impact on long-term savings. A Frontier driver will spend an extra $200 on gas each year, according to the US Department of Energy fuel calculator. Over five years, that’s an extra $1000 expense for the Frontier owner.

5. Trim Levels and Standard Features

   The Ford Ranger XL doesn’t have a match among the Nissan Frontier trim levels. It is the most affordable of either lineup. The King S and SV trim levels have competition from the Ranger XLT and Lariat trims.

   The Lariat Tremor and Frontier Pro-4X are most likely to go head to head. However, Ford makes off-roading more accessible to all buyers by having the FX4 package with terrain management available on all three trims. Plus you can get the Ranger XLT Tremor and pay less for the maximum trail capability.

   If you look at the XLT vs the entry-level Frontier S, the prices are remarkably close. These packages give you a sizable touchscreen, Bluetooth, smartphone connectivity, and USB ports. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on both. XLT cockpits get more goodies like push button start and dual-zone automatic controls.

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, there are more off-road choices at a wider range of prices.

The best way to learn more is to get behind the wheel of your favorite 2023 Ford Ranger trim. You are invited to test drive at your Rodeo Ford dealer.