Compare Nissan Frontier Vs the Competition

Compare the Nissan Frontier Against the Competition
At Royal Nissan of Cortland, we know there's an appetite for a quality everyday mid-sized truck, and we believe the Nissan Frontier meets the demands of those in Cortland, Auburn and Ithaca. It has the capability, versatility and features drivers want, and when you visit us you can learn more about it. You can also see how it compares against the competition and why it remains a good choice for everyone looking to find their next truck.
Compare the Nissan Frontier and Ford Ranger
Both these mid-sized trucks offer plenty of appeal. When you compare them side-by-side, you'll see that the Nissan Frontier offers plenty of advantages that make it worth a closer look.
Feature | 2025 Nissan Frontier | 2025 Ford Ranger |
---|---|---|
Base Engine | 3.8L V6 - 310 hp / 281 lb-ft | 2.3L Turbo Ip-4 - 270 hp / 310 lb-ft |
Optional Engine | None | 3.0L V6 (Raptor) - p-405 hp / p-430 lb-ft |
Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
Drivetrain | RWD standard, p-4WD optional | RWD standard, p-4WD optional |
Max Towing Capacity | 6,720 lbs | 7,500 lbs |
Max Payload | 1,620 lbs | 1,805 lbs |
Fuel Economy (RWD) | 18 city / 2p-4 hwy MPG | 21 city / 26 hwy MPG |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 21.1 gallons | 18.0 gallons |
Bed Length Options | 5-ft or 6-ft (King/Crew Cab) | 5-ft only (Crew Cab) |
Cab Configurations | King Cab, Crew Cab | Crew Cab only |
Base MSRP | $30,500 (S King Cab 2WD) | $32,670 (XL RWD) |
Top Trim Price | ~$39,000 (Pro-p-4X Crew Cab) | ~$56,000 (Raptor p-4WD) |

Nissan Frontier

Ford Ranger
Performance
The 2025 Nissan Frontier impresses with its 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain, paired with a smooth nine-speed automatic transmission, offers confident acceleration and a refined driving experience whether on highways or taking it on the trails. In contrast, the 2025 Ford Ranger comes with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that, while it boasts more torque at 310 pound-feet, falls short in horsepower at 270 horsepower. For drivers who prioritize raw power and a naturally aspirated engine feel, the Frontier clearly leads the pack.


Interior
Inside, the Frontier offers a cabin that balances rugged utility with comfort. It features standard heated seats, high-quality materials, and a thoughtfully designed layout that emphasizes both function and style. While the Ford Ranger offers a competent interior, it leans more utilitarian and lacks some of the comforts that come standard in the Frontier. You will find the Nissan Frontier offers seats are supportive for long drives, and its cabin is quieter, making it a more pleasant space for a quality daily driving experience.
Technology
Nissan has equipped the 2025 Frontier with a suite of advanced tech features, many of which are standard across its vehicle lineup. This includes standard adaptive cruise control, keyless ignition, and satellite radio, which are only optional or limited to higher trims on the Range. The Frontier also boasts a user-friendly infotainment system with seamless smartphone integration with features like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Its intuitive layout and responsive interface enhance the driving experience and is easy to configure and navigate.

Compare the Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma
Another vehicle similar to the Nissan Frontier is the Toyota Tacoma. It has plenty of appeal like the Frontier, but we believe you'll find many reasons to consider the Frontier over the Tacoma when you compare them side-by-side here at our dealership in Cortland.
Feature | 2025 Nissan Frontier | 2025 Toyota Tacoma |
---|---|---|
Base Engine | 3.8L V6 - 310 hp / 281 lb-ft | 2.4L Turbo I4 - 278 hp / 317 lb-ft |
Optional Engine | None | 2.4L i-FORCE MAX Hybrid - 326 hp / 465 lb-ft |
Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 8-speed auto or 6-speed manual (on select trims) |
Drivetrain | RWD standard, 4WD optional | RWD standard, 4WD optional |
Max Towing Capacity | 6,720 lbs | 6,500 lbs |
Max Payload | 1,620 lbs | 1,709 lbs |
Fuel Economy (RWD) | 18 city / 24 hwy MPG | 20 city / 26 hwy MPG (est.) |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 21.1 gallons | 21.1 gallons |
Bed Length Options | 5-ft or 6-ft (King/Crew Cab) | 5-ft or 6-ft (Xtra/Crew Cab) |
Cab Configurations | King Cab, Crew Cab | XtraCab, Double Cab |
Base MSRP | $30,500 (S King Cab 2WD) | $31,500 (SR XtraCab RWD) |
Top Trim Price | ~$39,000 (Pro-4X Crew Cab) | ~$52,000 (TRD Pro Hybrid) |

Nissan Frontier

Toyota Tacoma
Performance
The 2025 Nissan Frontier stands out with its standard 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower, which is more powerful than the Tacoma's base 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This gives the Frontier a natural edge in acceleration and towing capability right out of the gate, without requiring an upgrade to a higher trim. While the Tacoma offers hybrid options with more power, they come at a premium and are not standard. The Nissan Frontier offers a nine-speed automatic transmission that also provides smooth and responsive shifts, contributing to a confident driving experience both on and off the road. For drivers who value straightforward power and reliability without needing to navigate complex trim levels, the Frontier delivers.


Interior
The Nissan Frontier impresses with comfortable front seats, high-quality materials, and a quiet cabin that rivals those at higher price points. Its interior design is straightforward and functional, with intuitive controls and thoughtful storage solutions. While the Tacoma has been redesigned with a more modern look, it has limited rear-seat space and a stiff ride on select models. The Frontier, on the other hand, offers a more refined ride quality and better front-seat comfort, making it a more pleasant daily driver and a vehicle you can count on to get the job done.
Technology
Nissan has equipped the 2025 Frontier with a user-friendly infotainment system that includes an eight-inch touchscreen with an optional nine-inch that comes equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of standard driver-assistance features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. While the Tacoma also offers a similar technology package, some of its more advanced features are only found at higher trims or optional packages. With the Nissan Frontier, you get standard technology and accessibility, making it a better value for buyers who want modern features at quality price points.

Learn More About the New Nissan Frontier
The team here at Royal Nissan of Cortland can discuss the Frontier here at the dealership as you look to find your next mid-sized truck around areas like Auburn and Ithaca. To begin this process, contact us here at the dealership, or come by and visit us as we'd be happy to provide in-depth overviews of each new Nissan Frontier, and arrange a test drive.
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Royal Nissan of Cortland
3901 Route 281
Cortland, NY 13045
- Sales: 607-753-9774