New Nissan Frontier Vs. Toyota Tacoma: Compared Side By Side
When deciding which midsize pickup truck should be your next upgrade, the Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma comparison is one that drivers can't ignore. As two of the most popular choices in the market today, choosing between them can be tough. That's why the team from Lorenzo Nissan has put together a detailed review to help you decide between the Tacoma or Frontier trucks.
We believe that the Nissan Frontier outpaces the Toyota truck in terms of off-road dominance, towing power, and everyday reliability. Dig deeper into the details below, and you'll soon understand why it is the clear winner.
2025 Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma at a Glance
- Performance: The 2025 Frontier features a standard V-6 engine with 310 horsepower, which offers more power than the base 2.4-liter engine with 278 horsepower on the Tacoma.
- Towing Capacity: The Frontier offers up to 7,150 pounds1 of towing capacity, surpassing the Tacoma truck's maximum of 6,500 pounds.2
- Wider Bed: The Frontier features a wider truck bed at 61.4 inches compared to the Tacoma, offering flexibility for larger items.
- Reliability: The 2025 Frontier boasts a higher J.D. Power rating for Quality & Reliability, with an 84/100 score3 compared to the 79/1004 for the Tacoma.
Compare Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma Trim Levels & Configurations
The 2025 Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma offer a well-matched selection of trim levels and configurations. The Frontier features five versatile trims, customizable with two cab styles that offer seating for five or four, a choice between rear or four-wheel drive, and a 5-foot or 6-foot bed.
The Toyota Tacoma offers six gas-powered trim options, along with two cab styles, a 5-foot or 6-foot bed choice, and the same rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations. The major difference is that the Tacoma only offers a two- or five-seat arrangement. If you regularly transport more than one person, the Frontier may be more appealing since it can accommodate at least three other passengers across its trims.
Both trucks have comparable starting MSRPs, but as you climb the trim-level ladder, you'll notice that the Frontier stays within a more affordable range, offering top-tier features at an accessible price. Considering it also achieved a "Great" Quality & Reliability rating from J.D. Power,3 it's easy to see why it stands out in our Frontier vs. Tacoma comparison.
2025 Frontier vs. Tacoma Specs
| 2025 Nissan Frontier | 2025 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Standard Engine | 3.8L DOHC 6-cyl | i-FORCE 2.4L Turbo 4-cyl |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic |
| Max Horsepower | 310 | 278 |
| Max Torque | 281 lb-ft | 317 lb-ft |
| Max Towing Capacity | 7,150 lbs1 | 6,500 lbs2 |
| Drivetrain | RWD or 4WD | RWD or 4WD |
Right out of the gate, the Nissan Frontier entry-level trim offers more horsepower than the base model on the Tacoma. The Frontier King Cab S boasts 310 horsepower with its standard 3.8-liter V-6 engine, while the Tacoma SR is equipped with the standard i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that generates 228 horsepower.
This can be upgraded to 270 horsepower on the base model or up to 278 on other trims, but it still falls short compared to the Frontier truck's V-6 powerhouse. If you're wondering if a comparison between the Nissan Frontier V-6 vs. Toyota Tacoma V-6 is possible, we're here to tell you that the Tacoma does not offer a V-6 powertrain for the 2025 lineup. So, for those looking for stout, hefty performance with this setup, you can rely on the Frontier V-6.
The Tacoma offers drivers the choice between an eight-speed automatic transmission and a six-speed manual transmission (only offered on SR, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-Road). The Frontier comes standard with a nine-speed transmission, with the extra gear giving the Nissan midsize truck a smoother ride and better handling on the road or trail.
2025 Frontier vs. Tacoma Towing
The Frontier takes the cake regarding hauling ability. The 2025 Nissan Frontier boasts a max towing capacity of 7,150 pounds,1 whereas the Tacoma only hits a max towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.2
You'll also find that many editions of the Frontier hit a higher towing capacity than the maximum on the Tacoma. For example, the Frontier King Cab S 4x4 Long Bed will give drivers a 7,000-pound1 tow rating, with the Frontier Crew Cab SV 4x4 Long Bed coming in at 6,760 pounds.1
Even if you look at the previous 2024 Frontier, this truck's towing capability1 still surpasses a new Tacoma. This makes the Frontier stand out among our new Nissan vehicles in terms of performance.
2025 Frontier vs. Tacoma Dimensions
| 2025 Nissan Frontier | 2025 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Bed Options | 5 ft or 6 ft | 5 ft or 6 ft |
| Seating Capacity | 4 or 5 | 2 or 5 |
| Length | 210.2 in - 224.1 in | 213 in - 226.2 in |
| Height | 71.3 in - 72.9 in | 73.8 in - 74.7 in |
| Width | 73 - 74.7 in | 76.9 in - 77.9 in |
Next in our Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma comparison, we look at size and dimensions. Both midsize trucks offer a choice of a 5-foot or 6-foot bed, but the exact measurements differ in a few ways.
The boxes on the Tacoma are slightly longer, with the 6-foot bed measuring 73.5 inches and the 5-foot hitting 60.3 inches. The Frontier isn't far behind, with the long bed measuring 73.3 inches and the standard bed reaching 59.5 inches.
However, the Frontier bed sizes are wider, with a max box width of 61.4 inches compared to the Tacoma's 53 inches.
Looking at the exterior measurements, the Frontier is slightly smaller, which makes it easier to handle in tight spaces while still offering impressive performance typical of a midsize truck when needed.
Nissan Frontier or Toyota Tacoma for Off-Roading?
The 2025 Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma are built to conquer tough terrain, but each offers unique features to enhance that process.
The PRO-X and PRO-4X versions of the Frontier offer a solid set of off-road tech and equipment designed to make challenging adventures smoother. The PRO-4X is the most decked-out trim with impressive performance features to come through for you while out in the wild:
- Bilstein® shocks
- Electronic-locking rear differential
- Underbody skid plates
- All-terrain tires
- Off-road gauges
- Hill Descent Control
- Intelligent Around View Monitor with Off-Road Mode
Looking at the Tacoma gas-powered variants, the TRD Off-Road trim is the go-to choice for adventuring off the grid. This grade features Bilstein® monotube shocks, an electronically controlled locking rear differential, Downhill Assist Control, and Crawl Control.
While both pickups will give you the off-roading components you need to conquer the trail, the Tacoma lineup only offers one off-road-focused gas-powered trim compared to the two editions provided by the Frontier. The Toyota truck does come in hybrid configurations that are even more powerful, but this results in paying a much higher price.
If you want to purchase one of these off-road beasts, check out our new Nissan specials.
Test-Drive Your Nissan Midsize Truck Today!
When it comes to the Frontier versus Tacoma midsize truck comparison, the Frontier stands out with its superior combination of performance, reliability, and ease of handling. Offering more standard horsepower, a higher reliability rating, and a wider, spacious bed, the Frontier delivers exceptional value in the midsize truck category. Its smaller exterior makes it a breeze to drive and park, making it ideal for both urban and off-road adventures.
Even in a 2024 Frontier vs. Tacoma overview, the Nissan truck still shines with its 310-horsepower V-6 engine and max towing capacity of 6,640 pounds.1 So whether you're interested in purchasing a new Nissan Frontier or a pre-owned model, you'll get a midsize truck that delivers big time.
Visit our South Florida Nissan dealer today and get behind the wheel of this exceptional new truck!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma engines?
The 2025 Nissan Frontier comes equipped with a 3.8-liter V-6 engine as standard across the entire lineup, regardless of trim or configuration, generating an impressive 310 horsepower. In comparison, the Tacoma comes standard with a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that produces a maximum of 278 horsepower. While the Tacoma offers a more powerful engine, it is only available with the more expensive hybrid variants.
Is the Frontier as reliable as the Tacoma?
The 2025 Frontier boasts a "Great" Quality & Reliability rating from J.D. Power, scoring 84/100,3 which is higher than the 79/100 rating4 for the Tacoma. This indicates that the Frontier offers a dependable experience in terms of overall quality and fewer potential issues over time. Following the manufacturer's maintenance schedule and taking proper care of your truck will also keep it running reliably for many years.
Are Tacoma and Frontier truck beds the same size?
No, the 2025 Nissan Frontier and Tacoma truck beds are not the same size when comparing exact measurements. They both offer a 5-foot or 6-foot bed; however, the 5-foot and 6-foot beds on the Tacoma are slightly longer than those of the Frontier. The Frontier beds are wider, offering more cargo space in terms of width. This can be beneficial for carrying larger or bulkier items.
Is the Toyota Tacoma longer than the Nissan Frontier?
Yes, the 2025 Tacoma rings in at 226.2 inches with the long bed, whereas the Frontier measures 224.1 inches with the same bed configuration. In terms of versatility and space, the Frontier compensates with a wider bed, measuring up to 61.4 inches. Its shorter, more compact frame also allows for easier maneuvering when navigating tight corners or parking spots.
Get More Info On The New Nissan Frontier
1Towing capacity varies by configuration. See Nissan Towing Guide and Owner’s Manual for additional information. Always secure cargo.
2Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. "Added vehicle equipment" includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle's exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. [Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.] Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner's Manual for limitations.
3Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/nissan/frontier
4Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/toyota/tacoma-2wd