Today, finding the proper pickup truck for your specific needs can feel like an impossible task. There are so many options out there, that you may be wondering which is right for you. If you do not need a full-size truck, there are likely two models that you may be weighing. And that is the 2022 Nissan Frontier and 2022 Ford Maverick. While these trucks do have their fair share of differences, they both aim to provide utility without as large of a footprint.  

2022 Nissan Frontier vs. 2022 Ford Maverick: Which is best?

In terms of which truck is best, it is important to consider each one’s pros and cons. The 2022 Frontier is a mid-size truck that utilizes body-on-frame construction. The 2022 Maverick is a compact truck that is built with unibody construction. Because of these, the Maverick feels slightly more comfortable on the road. 

At the same time, the Nissan Frontier has better off-road chops and more capability. Plus the Frontier does come with a standard V6 engine, something that is not offered to the Maverick. But, you will not see the kind of efficiency you will find in Ford’s small truck with Nissan’s pickup.

2022 Ford Maverick strengths and weaknesses

The Maverick has been an immensely popular truck. It has been so popular that Ford was forced to place a pause on orders for the 2022 model. This compact truck comes standard with a hybrid engine, but a more potent turbocharged engine is available. In terms of off-road ability, the Maverick offers the FX4 Off-Road package to help with rugged terrain. 

When it comes to weaknesses, the 2022 Ford Maverick is certainly not a luxury vehicle. With a starting cost of around $20,000, according to Car and Driver, interior materials may feel cheap to some. It would also be nice if Ford would offer all-wheel drive with the hybrid powertrain. But, currently, it does not. 

2022 Nissan Frontier strengths and weaknesses

The 2022 Frontier is nearly all-new for this model year. It has finally entered its third generation, which makes it feel more modern than previous models. It comes standard with a V6 engine that makes 310 horsepower and ample torque. Nissan’s mid-size truck can also tow up to 6,720 lbs when properly equipped. 

More safety features would be appreciated on the Frontier. Nissan currently offers a partial autonomous driving system that is not yet available to this truck. Hopefully, this will be something that is added in the future.

Which truck should you buy?

If you do not need the capability of a truck and are shopping for a new car or crossover, the 2022 Ford Maverick is likely the right pick. It has the utility of a truck bed, but it doesn’t sacrifice on too much comfort. Additionally, this small truck is extremely efficient. 

For those who need more capability and want something rugged, the 2022 Nissan Frontier is a good pick. As a body-on-frame truck, you will get a more traditional pickup experience. Plus, the Frontier still offers the PRO-4X trim which is for those who want to do some serious off-roading.