2023 Nissan Frontier vs 2024 Jeep Gladiator

The 2023 Nissan Frontier was available in four trim levels: S, SV, Pro-X, and Pro-4X. The model retained its well-received exterior redesign, inspired by the 1986 Nissan Hardbody, and the interior updates introduced in 2022. For 2023, the Frontier lineup included a new Midnight Edition on the SV trim, featuring blacked-out elements like the grille and wheels. Pro-X and Pro-4X trims received Lava Red interior accents, enhancing the vehicle's sporty appeal. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were available on both Pro grades, which also featured a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and a 60/40-split flip-up rear bench seat. The Frontier offered nine exterior color options, including unique shades like “Baja Storm” tan and Tactical Green.

The 2024 Jeep Gladiator was offered in four core trim levels: Sport, Willys, Mojave, and Rubicon, with additional variants like the Sport S and new-for-2024 Mojave X and Rubicon X. The Gladiator featured a crew-cab, shortbed configuration with a removable fabric roof or hard top, and doors that could be taken off. The 2024 model introduced subtle styling updates, including a new black seven-slot grille and integrated whip antenna. Inside, the Gladiator received additional soft-touch surfaces, standard contrast stitching, and a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Mojave X and Rubicon X trims added 12-way power-adjustable front seats and premium leather upholstery, enhancing the interior's comfort and luxury.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with an available shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive system. The Frontier's towing capacity reached up to 6,720 pounds, with a maximum payload of 1,610 pounds. The EPA rated its fuel economy at up to 20 mpg combined for RWD models, while 4WD models achieved 19 mpg combined. The Frontier featured hydraulic steering, which was adjusted for better maneuverability, and a suspension system designed to balance off-road capability with on-road comfort.

The 2024 Jeep Gladiator continued with its 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It offered a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission, along with four 4WD systems. The Gladiator's towing capacity reached up to 7,700 pounds, with a payload capacity of 1,725 pounds. The Mojave trim was designed for desert running, featuring a one-inch front suspension lift, FOX 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks, and an Off-Road+ driving mode. The Gladiator's fuel economy was rated at 19 mpg combined, though real-world testing showed an average of 16.7 mpg. The vehicle excelled in off-road conditions but was less comfortable on highways due to wind noise and steering feel.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier offered two cab configurations: the larger Crew Cab with four full-sized doors and a 5-foot bed, and the King Cab with two full-sized doors and a 6-foot bed. The Frontier's cargo bed volume was increased, with the 5-foot bed offering 40.1 cubic feet and the 6-foot bed 46.4 cubic feet. The Pro-4X trim featured aluminum and steel skid plates for off-road protection. Inside, the Frontier provided ample storage, including a center console with 4 liters of space and additional storage in door pockets and under the rear seats.

The 2024 Jeep Gladiator shared design elements with the Jeep Wrangler but featured a unique frame and rear suspension. Its five-foot steel cargo bed included a dampened tailgate and integrated tie-downs, with optional upgrades like a spray-in bedliner. Interior storage was limited, with small bins and nets for smaller items. The Gladiator's new power-adjustable front seats improved comfort, though rear-seat passengers needed to be cautious of protruding hooks. Climbing in and out of the Gladiator was challenging, especially without running boards or step rails.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier featured wireless Apple CarPlay on Pro-X and Pro-4X trims, with wired connections required for Android Auto. The Pro trims also offered USB-A and USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, and a 10-speaker Fender premium sound system. The infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen for lower trims and a 9-inch touchscreen for Pro trims. The Frontier's off-road gauge cluster displayed real-time angles when 4WD was engaged, and the Intelligent Around-View Monitor was available on Pro-X and Pro-4X trims.

The 2024 Jeep Gladiator introduced a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5 technology, offering improved graphics and features. The system supported Bluetooth pairing for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. A TomTom navigation system with Jeep Adventure Guides was available, providing access to trail guides. The Gladiator's voice recognition system was improved, though it struggled with complex commands.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier came standard with forward-collision warning, trailer sway control, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. Optional safety features included lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The NHTSA gave the Frontier a four-star overall safety rating, with a five-star side crash test score. The IIHS rated the 2022 model Superior for daytime front vehicle-to-pedestrian crash prevention.

The 2024 Jeep Gladiator's safety ratings were less impressive, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA. However, the 2024 model included safety improvements, such as forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control on the Sport S trim, and blind-spot monitoring on the Mojave X and Rubicon X trims. Structural enhancements and a standard roll cage with side-curtain airbags were also added.