2025 Toyota Tacoma Versus Nissan Frontier Compared
A Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma review highlights two capable contenders in the midsize truck segment. However, the 2025 Toyota Tacoma leads the pack with its multiple powertrains, reliable reputation, and off-road versatility, such as higher ground clearance. This comparison from DARCARS Toyota of Silver Spring reveals the Tacoma vs. Frontier similarities and differences – and the Tacoma wins the showdown.
2025 Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma at a Glance
- Engine Power: The 2025 Toyota Tacoma can be equipped with one of two powertrains, including a hybrid that delivers up to 326 horsepower. In contrast, the 2025 Nissan Frontier comes with a standard 3.8-liter V-6 with no ability to upgrade.
- Trail-Conquering Capability: While the Frontier lineup includes two nature-loving trims, the Tacoma has more variety with the TRD PreRunner, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Trailhunter, and TRD Pro.
- Lasting Reliability: Renowned for its longevity, the Tacoma ranks top in J.D. Power's 2025 Dependability Study for midsize trucks1 and holds a higher predicted reliability score from Consumer Reports than the Frontier.2,3
- Bed Utility: Both models offer a 5-foot and 6-foot bed, but the Tacoma boxes are slightly larger, measuring 60.3 inches and 73.5 inches versus up to 59.5 or 73.3 inches for the Frontier.
- Efficient Fuel Ratings: With both its gas and hybrid engines, the Tacoma achieves better fuel economy ratings across the board compared to the Frontier.
Tacoma or Frontier: Which Truck Is Right for You?
Specs play a crucial role in deciding which midsize truck suits your requirements, so that's where we'll begin our Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma clash.
Performance
The Frontier is powered by a 3.8-liter V-6 that yields 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque. The Tacoma, on the other hand, presents two dynamic choices: a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with up to 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, or the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain delivering 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque.
If you're hard set on a V-6 engine under the hood, search used Toyota Tacoma trucks online and be on the lookout for model years 2020 to 2023.
Towing Capability
The Frontier has a maximum towing capacity of 7,150 pounds,4 but it's limited to a single configuration with RWD. In contrast, the Toyota Tacoma towing capacity tops out at 6,500 pounds,5 but it provides three different configurations that can achieve its maximum tow rating with either RWD or 4WD and plenty of configurations with 6,400-pound capacities. Additionally, the Tacoma has a higher maximum payload rating of 1,705 pounds6 and larger bed sizes, making it more versatile for hauling.
Another win for Toyota is that the automaker also offers a full-size truck, while the Nissan brand discontinued its full-size Titan model. For drivers who need even more pulling power, the Toyota Tundra towing capacity reaches up to 12,000 pounds5 – nearly double that of the only remaining Nissan truck.
Fuel Economy
The Tacoma boasts better fuel efficiency, whether it's equipped with the turbocharged gas powertrain or the advanced hybrid system. The Frontier tops out at an EPA-estimated 19/24/21 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),7 while the Tacoma achieves up to an EPA-estimated 21/26/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)8 with its gas engine and up to an EPA-estimated 23/24/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)8 with the available hybrid setup.
Off-Roading
While the Frontier has made notable improvements over the years, the Tacoma remains a top pick among outdoor enthusiasts thanks to its advanced technology and trail-ready engineering. Whether looking at the Nissan Frontier PRO-4X vs. Tacoma TRD Off-Road, one of the other TRD models, or the Trailhunter, the Frontier can't keep up.
Allow us to illustrate what we mean. The Frontier PRO-4X has Bilstein® shocks, skid plates, an electronic locking rear differential, and all-terrain tires. You'll also find aggressive all-terrain tires and rear lockers, FOX®-tuned shocks, and skid plates for select Tacoma models. However, Toyota takes things up a notch with Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control. Additionally, the Tacoma boasts up to 11.5 inches of ground clearance – the Frontier only has up to 9.5 inches in the front and 9.8 inches in the rear. Combine these Tacoma enhancements with our latest new truck lease deals, and you have yourself one wilderness-bound warrior ready for just about anything.
Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma Specs Chart
Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma Reliability
As you explore Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma reviews, you'll quickly see that the Tacoma consistently earns praise for its proven reliability and long-term value, making it tough to outshine in any midsize truck comparison.
While the Frontier has made strides in reliability, when you compare Nissan Frontier to Toyota Tacoma stats, the former lacks the same long-term track record as the Toyota. The 2025 model ranks at the top in J.D. Power's 2025 Vehicle Dependability Study for midsize trucks1 and has received a higher predicted reliability score from Consumer Reports than the Frontier.2,3 Additionally, the 2025 Tacoma earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick award,12 underscoring its commitment to safety alongside reliability.
Which is Better: Tacoma or Frontier?
Wrapping up our Nissan Frontier versus Toyota Tacoma comparison, it's clear that the Toyota stands out with its proven reliability, advanced and fearless appointments, and optional hybrid powertrain, making it the smarter choice. The Frontier has solid towing and performance, but it falls short in overall power, fuel efficiency, and bed sizes. Search all-new Toyota trucks for sale to find the right fit for your needs.
Bosfordjd
"Reasons to get a Tacoma - You want a 4 cyc - You want a 6 speed - It's cheaper for the same options you want - Resale...though all pickups have been holding value since covid."
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cpt___kidde
"My personal truck is a 2019 TRD Sport Tacoma, access cab, manual transmission, with an Old Man Emu suspension."
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Noryn
" I don’t think you can go wrong with either, although conventional wisdom is to avoid the first new model year. The Frontier worried me because of the heavy steering and poor turn radius. The Tacoma drives much better. "
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cons of a Nissan Frontier?
The 2025 Frontier has a few drawbacks to consider. It has only one engine option, with no hybrid or turbo alternatives, which limits performance and fuel efficiency compared to rivals like the Toyota Tacoma. The Frontier also lacks the strong overland support and community that models like the Tacoma enjoy. The interior, especially in lower trims, can feel outdated with less refined materials, too.
Who has a better warranty: Nissan or Toyota?
A Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma warranty comparison shows that both trucks come with a 36-month/36,000-mile Basic Warranty13 and a 60-month/60,000-mile Powertrain Warranty,13 providing comparable warranty coverage. The Toyota Tacoma also has added coverage for its i-FORCE MAX models, including a 120-month/150,000-mile Hybrid Battery Warranty13 and a 96-month/100,000-mile Hybrid System Warranty.13
What is the difference between the Nissan Frontier engine and the Toyota Tacoma engine?
The Frontier comes with a single engine pick: a 3.8-liter V-6 that produces 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque. The Tacoma has more variety, including a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, plus an available i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain that boosts output to 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque.
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