Nissan finally has a contender in the midsize truck segment. But one question still remains. Can the all-new 2022 Nissan Frontier topple its tough competition?

Thankfully, Nissan redesigned the Frontier with class domination on its mind. It engineered the truck to deliver statistics that jump off the page. This reinvigorated model now practically begs consumers to take it out for a test drive.

Just what type of advantages does Nissan’s midsize pickup hold over its rivals? We’ve identified two noteworthy categories where it outperforms other popular models. Let’s dive into the Frontier’s stats and features to see if it outshines the segment leaders.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier is a powerhouse

This redesigned midsize truck is one of the toughest on the market. But you might have already known that. While Nissan recreated most of this pickup from scratch, it carried over the powertrain from the previous model. And that’s not a bad thing.

The previous-generation Frontier was ancient, but Nissan recently gave it a performance upgrade. The Japanese manufacturer debuted its 3.8-liter V6 engine on the 2020 Frontier to some success. The all-new 2022 Nissan Frontier also houses this powerplant. 

It delivers the same potent 310-hp as before, making it the most powerful truck in its class. This strength translates to impressive payload capability. It can haul up to 1,610 pounds, which is more than the Chevy Colorado, Honda Ridgeline, and GMC Canyon.

However, the 2022 Nissan Frontier comes up short in a different area – towing. Its 6,720 max tow rating trails most of its rivals. So, you’re going to need to consider how you’ll be hauling your equipment before purchasing your next truck.

Nissan set the benchmark for safety in the midsize truck segment

Driver-assistance technologies aren’t the first features you think of when looking at a pickup. However, you’d much rather have them than be left to your own devices. That’s why the 2022 Nissan Frontier holds an enormous advantage over its competitors.

Its base model isn’t as well-equipped with smart safety systems as rivals like the Toyota Tacoma or Honda Ridgeline. However, the Frontier’s available Nissan Safety Shield 360 includes a nifty class-exclusive feature – reverse automatic emergency braking. The 2022 Frontier’s other available safety features include blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and more.

This technology is becoming more common in cars and SUVs. But manufacturers haven’t added automated rear braking to trucks yet. Instead, you’ll have to rely on audible signals from features like rear parking sensors and rear cross-traffic alert to avoid bang-ups.

Meanwhile, the 2022 Nissan Frontier does a better job protecting your precious cargo in parking lot and job-site scenarios. Models equipped with reverse automatic emergency braking will react to a potential collision if you don’t activate the brakes in time. This action mitigates damage to the vehicle or avoids a crash altogether.

Is the 2022 Nissan Frontier a winner?

Nissan undoubtedly crafted a solid truck. However, it’s not the clear-cut favorite in the class. This honor likely goes to the redesigned 2021 Honda Ridgeline. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t put the new Frontier on your wishlist, though.

The 2022 Nissan Frontier outperforms its rivals in significant categories. So, this truck might be perfect for you if safety, horsepower, and payload capacity are your top priorities. Alternatively, those who need the highest-possible towing rating may want to skip the Frontier for a more capable model.