Comparing the 2024 GMC Canyon vs 2024 Nissan Frontier Luxury Trims

Midsize trucks are terrific options for drivers who want the utility of a pickup but also want more everyday driver dimensions and better fuel economy than a full-size truck has to offer. Both GMC and Nissan make solid midsize truck options. Because so many drivers turn to midsize trucks for their commuter vehicles, we think it’s appropriate to take a closer look at the luxury trims on both models. After all, if you were going to spend extended time in your pickup, you should love being there.

We took a close look at the luxury trim of the 2024 GMC Canyon and the 2024 Nissan Frontier to see how the two compare. They have some interesting differences as well as some similarities. In our continued goal to pair our customers with vehicles that will meet their needs, below we will break down the notable differences and commonalities between the luxury trims of these two midsize trucks: the GMC Denali and the Frontier SL.

Comfort Features

Let’s start with comfort. After all, midsize trucks are popular amongst people who spend lots of time in their pickups, so you should enjoy being in the cab. We always examine seat adjustability when people ask which vehicle is the most comfortable for extended drives. Being able to set your seat to your ideal position is not only about comfort; it can prevent muscle soreness and bodily fatigue and even help improve your posture. Plus, it can ensure you can reach the steering wheel and pedals without strain and improve your visibility.

The GMC Canyon Denali gives drivers an eight-way power-adjustable seat and front passengers a six-way power-adjustable seat. The Nissan Frontier SL lacks in this category. The driver gets a six-way power-adjustable seat, and the front passenger is stuck with a four-way manual seat. Given its upper trim status, we would have liked to see power adjustability in the front passenger seat of this vehicle, as well as a little added adjustability for the driver.

Both vehicles get a heated steering wheel, which should keep the driver’s fingers warm and flexible for easy steering. Additionally, the driver and front passenger enjoy heated seats for full body warmth on cold days. Plus, both models have heated exterior mirrors, so melting away ice interfering with visibility should be quick and simple. You’ll never have to get into a cabin that is uncomfortably cold or hot again in either of these models thanks to their remote start functions, which allow you to turn on the climate control before you get into the vehicle.

When you’re ready to look at your turn-by-turn directions, information on the current playlist, or other stats being sent to your touchscreen from your smartphone, you’ll do so on a massive 11.3-inch diagonal center touchscreen in the Canyon. An 11-inch diagonal driver information center will also display important journey and vehicle details. Unfortunately, the Nissan Frontier only has up to a nine-inch touchscreen and does not boast a large driver information center like the Canyon. So, if you love the functionality and graphics that a bigger screen can provide, the GMC Canyon is the obvious choice.

Style Features

Style is not just about aesthetics. It sets the mood and welcomes you in. If you spend a lot of time in your vehicle, the way it looks can really impact how you feel. So, how do these two models hold up in the style department?

The Canyon Denali is undeniably one of the most stylish truck trims on the market. It outshines not just the Nissan Frontier but nearly all the competition. It enjoys perforated, leather-appointed seats and a Denali-exclusive jet-black interior with teak accents. This creates a look that is both modern and rustic chic. Plus, you’ll see wood trim around the cabin for a truly upscale appearance. While the Nissan Frontier also has leather-appointed seats, it does not have as many striking design details as the Denali.

Exterior style is important. If you want to impress clients when you pull up to new jobs or just love cruising on a Sunday and turning heads, you want a truck that looks good. The GMC Canyon Denali stands out again here, thanks to its 20-inch diamond-cut aluminum wheels. The Nissan Frontier has just 17-inch painted machine-finished aluminum alloy wheels. That’s a decent size, but they won’t make the same statement as the GMC Denali’s massive wheels.

Functionality

While the focus of the luxury trims is interior comfort and style, we like to look at their functionalities. After all, drivers usually buy pickup trucks because they plan on towing and hauling loads and possibly navigating rough environments.

The GMC Canyon Denali and Nissan Frontier SL have distinctive and unique perks in this department. For example, the GMC Canyon has up to 10 available camera views, including a segment-first available under-body camera set providing front and rear-facing views beneath the vehicle. The Nissan Frontier SL does not offer anything like this.

The Canyon offers drivers rugged, all-terrain tires, whereas the Nissan Frontier sticks to more versatile but less aggressive all-season tires. Unless you plan on remaining on easily accessible, paved roads, you won’t be able to go to as many places in the Frontier as you can in the Canyon. While all-season tires are fine for paved roads in moderate weather conditions, only all-terrain tires will get you the traction you need in mud or on dirt roads.

When you need to stay focused entirely on the road, you’ll appreciate the multicolor 6.3″ diagonal head-up display that comes standard on the GMC Canyon. It puts pertinent driver info and other items like incoming callers and navigation steps directly in your line of sight, so you don’t need to look away from the road at any point. The Nissan Frontier doesn’t even have this as an available feature, so you will need to take your eyes off the road to glance over to the touchscreen or driver information display to stay in the know on your drive.

Find Your Perfect Midsize Truck

We have the excellent 2024 GMC Canyon, including the Denali trim and all other trims. This midsize truck is the perfect option for drivers who need capability and comfort. Plus, we know it will satisfy those who crave a stylish ride. If you want to get to know the Canyon lineup better, visit us at Jim Ellis Buick GMC Mall of Georgia. Our knowledgeable team knows the unique features of each trim. They will get to know you and pair you with the perfect model for your daily drives and tasks.

You will love how huge our inventory is. In addition to the GMC Canyon, we have other GMC models to explore. We also have tons of dependable pre-owned vehicles so that you can get a fantastic deal on this highly durable and beloved brand. We know that drivers ask a lot from their pickups. GMC vehicles are up for whatever you have planned. Visit us soon and drive home in a truck you love at a price that fits your finances. Have the confidence for any job with the 2024 GMC Canyon.