Power and Efficiency: Maverick vs. Frontier
The powertrain, the combination of the engine, transmission, and drivetrain, dictates a vehicle's performance. Here, we compare the 2023 Ford Maverick and the 2023 Nissan Frontier.
Ford Maverick
The Maverick offers two engine choices, providing versatility for different drivers. The standard 2.5-liter hybrid engine delivers 191 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. This engine excels in fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
For those seeking more power, the Maverick offers a 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine, producing 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine maintains good fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Nissan Frontier
The Frontier features a single engine option, a 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. However, this power comes at the cost of fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Compared
While the Frontier offers more horsepower and torque, the Maverick provides a diverse engine lineup and superior fuel efficiency. For those who prioritize economy or need versatility, the Ford Maverick stands out as a compelling choice.
2023 Ford Maverick vs. Nissan Frontier: Inside the Cabin
The true journey begins inside the vehicle, where comfort, space, and tech-savvy features play a crucial role. The 2023 Ford Maverick and the 2023 Nissan Frontier both offer appealing interior features, but let's see how they stack up.
The interior showcased in this Ford 360 virtual tour represents the specific trim package 2023 Ford Maverick Lariat and may not accurately depict the interior of the compared model. Please refer to individual model specifications and trim options for a precise representation of each vehicle's interior features and design.
Ford Maverick
Despite its compact classification, the Maverick offers ample interior space. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and the rear seats provide generous legroom and headroom.
The Maverick excels in comfort with a smooth ride and a quiet cabin. Available features like a heated steering wheel and heated seats enhance comfort during cold weather commutes.
The Maverick's 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is user-friendly and packed with features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. Additional options include a power-adjustable driver's seat, a sunroof, and a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system for an elevated audio experience.
Nissan Frontier
The Frontier also impresses with its spacious interior, comfortable front seats, and ample legroom and headroom in the rear. It features a 5.7-foot long cargo bed for hauling gear. The Frontier offers a quiet cabin and a smooth ride, similar to the Maverick.
The Frontier's infotainment system, featuring a 7-inch touchscreen, includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Options like a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated steering wheel, heated seats, sunroof, and Bose sound system are available for a customized ride.
Compared
Both the Maverick and Frontier offer comfortable and well-equipped interiors. However, the Maverick stands out with its larger standard infotainment screen, additional cargo flexibility, and the option of a Bang & Olufsen sound system.
Whether for a family road trip, off-road adventure, or urban commuting, the 2023 Ford Maverick provides a well-rounded interior package prioritizing comfort, space, and user-friendly technology. It embodies the heart of a compact pickup with the soul of a luxury vehicle.
Safety Features in Ford Maverick and Nissan Frontier
Safety is a paramount concern for any driver, and both the 2023 Ford Maverick and the 2023 Nissan Frontier offer a range of features to protect their occupants. Let's examine the safety technologies these two vehicles provide.
Ford Maverick
The Ford Maverick comes with a suite of standard safety features designed for peace of mind. Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) detects potential collisions and applies brakes automatically. Forward Collision Warning and Automatic High Beams adjust to surrounding traffic conditions. Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist help maintain the intended path, while a Rear View Camera and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System are also included.
Ford's Roll Stability Control, part of the AdvanceTrac system, enhances vehicle stability, and seven airbags provide protection in a collision. Additional options include Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross Traffic Alert, and a Reverse Sensing System. The Ford Co-Pilot 360 Assist 2.0 package adds Evasive Steering Assist and Reverse Automatic Braking.
The Maverick's SYNC 4A infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and FordPass Connect adds extra convenience.
Nissan Frontier
The Nissan Frontier offers the Safety Shield 360® system, including Intelligent Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Lane Departure Warning and High Beam Assist complete the primary safety package.
The Frontier includes eight airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and a Traction Control System (TCS). Optional features include the Intelligent Around View® Monitor, Driver Attention Alert, and ProPILOT Assist.
The Frontier's 8-inch infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and NissanConnect Services enhance the driving experience.
Compared
Both vehicles offer impressive safety suites. However, the 2023 Ford Maverick stands out with a more comprehensive standard safety package. The Ford Co-Pilot 360 Assist 2.0, which includes Evasive Steering Assist and Reverse Automatic Braking, provides additional protection not found in the Frontier's suite. While both pickups prioritize safety, the Maverick's advanced safety technologies make it a strong choice for those seeking proactive safety measures in their vehicle.
Off-Road Evaluation
Off-road capabilities are crucial for the robustness and reliability of a pickup, and in this terrain evaluation, the 2023 Ford Maverick and the 2023 Nissan Frontier demonstrate their strengths.
The Ford Maverick, despite its compact size, offers significant off-road capabilities with two off-road packages: the FX4 Off-Road Package and the Tremor Off-Road Package.
The FX4 package includes 17-inch aluminum wheels, all-terrain tires, Hill Descent Control, skid plates, tuned shocks, and a Mud & Ruts driving mode. These features allow the Maverick to handle light off-road trails and dirt roads effectively.
The Tremor Off-Road Package builds on the FX4 package with a 1-inch lift for better ground clearance, a torque-vectoring rear differential, all-terrain tires, and additional Slippery and Sand driving modes. The standout feature is Trail Control, which adjusts the accelerator and brakes to maintain a set speed over difficult terrain.
With the Tremor Package, the Maverick achieves an approach angle of 30.7 degrees, a departure angle of 22.2 degrees, and a breakover angle of 19.9 degrees, with ground clearance of 9.4 inches. Towing and payload capacities are 2,000 pounds and 1,200 pounds, respectively.
The Nissan Frontier, with its PRO-4X package, also demonstrates off-road prowess. This package includes 4-wheel drive with a locking rear differential, all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, skid plates, and Bilstein off-road shocks. Mud-terrain tires are standard, enhancing traction on varied surfaces.
The Frontier PRO-4X offers an approach angle of 31.1 degrees and a departure angle of 23 degrees. However, its breakover angle is 22.9 degrees, and its ground clearance matches the Maverick Tremor at 9 inches. Towing capacity is 6,270 pounds, with a payload capacity of 1,230 pounds.
Each vehicle features strong off-road capabilities. However, the Ford Maverick, with its dedicated off-road packages and features like Trail Control, appears more capable of handling diverse off-road challenges. This makes it a compelling choice for weekend adventurers or families who enjoy occasional off-road excursions. While the Nissan Frontier's PRO-4X package is a competent off-roader, the Maverick's comprehensive options and features make it a versatile and dependable companion when the paved road ends.
Cost & Value
When assessing the overall value of a vehicle, associated costs such as initial pricing, fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and resale value are crucial. Here, we compare the Ford Maverick and the Nissan Frontier to determine which offers a better financial proposition.
The Ford Maverick is an appealing option for value-conscious buyers. The base XL model starts at $22,595, with the XLT and Lariat models available for $24,855 and $28,355, respectively. This competitive pricing makes the Maverick accessible to a wide range of buyers.
The Maverick's value proposition extends to its fuel efficiency. It offers an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, thanks to its standard hybrid powertrain. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor combination produce 191 horsepower, ensuring efficiency without compromising power.
Maintenance costs are estimated at around $500 annually. Its simple design and common parts help keep these costs low. Ford's standard three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty provide additional peace of mind.
Resale value is also strong for the Maverick. Kelley Blue Book predicts it will retain 59% of its value after five years, thanks to its fuel efficiency, affordability, and versatility.
The Nissan Frontier base King Cab S model starts at $29,370, with the Crew Cab S model at $30,670, and the PRO-X model at $35,900. While competitive within its category, these prices are significantly higher than the Maverick's entry point.
Fuel efficiency is another area where the Frontier trails, with an EPA-estimated 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. Though the Frontier offers a more powerful engine, it doesn't match the Maverick's fuel economy.
The Frontier's annual maintenance cost is similar to the Maverick's, estimated at around $500. It also comes with a standard three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Resale value for the Frontier is expected to retain 56% of its value after five years, according to Kelley Blue Book. Its durability, reliability, and popularity among fleet buyers contribute to this respectable resale value.
In this cost and value comparison, the 2023 Ford Maverick stands out with its lower initial pricing, superior fuel efficiency, and stronger resale value. These factors create a highly competitive value proposition for the Maverick, ensuring it delivers value throughout its ownership cycle. The Nissan Frontier is a solid competitor, but the Ford Maverick emerges as the better choice for those seeking long-term financial value.
The Verdict
After a thorough evaluation, it's time to conclude the showdown between the 2023 Ford Maverick and the 2023 Nissan Frontier. Both vehicles have their strengths, but our aim is to determine which one better meets the diverse needs of families, adventure seekers, and those prioritizing comfort and utility.
Powertrain
The Nissan Frontier offers more horsepower and torque, but the Ford Maverick's diverse engine options and superior fuel efficiency make it the more economical choice. The Maverick's fuel economy is particularly advantageous for city commutes and long drives, reducing overall fuel costs.
Interior
Both trucks provide comfortable cabins with ample tech features. However, the Maverick's larger standard infotainment screen and optional Bang & Olufsen sound system enhance the driving experience. Additionally, the Maverick's extended cargo space with the seats folded down offers practical benefits for family trips and outdoor adventures.
Safety
Both vehicles are equipped with numerous standard and optional safety features. The Maverick stands out with its advanced Ford Co-Pilot 360 Assist 2.0 system, including Evasive Steering Assist and Reverse Automatic Braking, providing extra peace of mind.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Frontier's PRO-4X package is formidable, but the Maverick's Tremor Off-Road Package offers a comprehensive set of features that make it a true off-road champion. The Maverick excels in handling various terrains, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.
Cost and Value
The Maverick's competitive starting price, impressive fuel efficiency, manageable maintenance costs, and strong resale value make it an exceptional value proposition. In contrast, the Frontier's higher starting price and lower fuel efficiency diminish its financial appeal.
Our Final Word
The 2023 Ford Maverick emerges as the winner by delivering a versatile, family-friendly, and adventure-ready pickup without compromising on comfort or economy. Its blend of impressive fuel efficiency, affordable cost, superior safety tech, and off-road capabilities make it the standout choice.
We invite you to visit us at Dorian Ford in Clinton Township, MI, to experience the Ford Maverick firsthand. Our team of auto experts is ready to show you all the Maverick's features and answer any questions you might have. Discover why the Ford Maverick could be your perfect road companion.
