Comparison: Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma

More than ever before, truck buyers have options. When it comes to midsizers, the Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma are two of the best choices out there. While the Tacoma is the truck everyone knows and trusts, with a rock-solid reputation built over the years, the Frontier is the fresh face, completely redesigned with a modern engine and an updated cabin.

So, which truck is right for your adventures: the proven Toyota Tacoma or the refreshed Nissan Frontier? In today’s head-to-head Nissan Frontier vs Toyota Tacoma comparison, Car From Japan will break down these models to help you find your perfect fit.

At a Glance: The Nissan Frontier vs Toyota Tacoma

The midsize truck segment is officially hotter than ever, as a lot of big brands have joined this segment. Among them, Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma have emerged as the common brands of truck buyers due to their power, capability, and modern features to handle everything from tough jobs to weekend adventures.

Before starting the in-depth comparison between the two midsize trucks, we will take a quick look at the history and some outstanding features of these models:

Toyota Tacoma 

The Toyota Tacoma is a pickup truck manufactured by Toyota since 1995 to the present, known as one of the world’s most-loved trucks, an indestructible icon, and an off-road legend. The name “Tacoma” was derived from the Coast Salish peoples’ name for Mount Rainier in the U.S. state of Washington.

The Toyota Tacoma has been the top-selling truck in its class for years. It stays on top by focusing on what buyers really want: a tough, reliable truck that just works, even if it isn’t always the first with new technology. Alternatively, car enthusiasts also appreciate this car for its excellent off-road capabilities and features, particularly the powerful V6 engine and the availability of a manual transmission. 

Nissan Frontier

The Nissan Frontier was introduced by the renowned Japanese automaker Nissan in 1997 and remains in production. The Frontier is a popular midsize truck in the US and has been a best-seller in its segment for many years. 

The Nissan Frontier has been named the “Coolest Thing Made In Mississippi” for winning the 2025 award hosted by the Mississippi Manufacturers Association for its craftsmanship and innovation. The rugged appearance, capability, and strong V6 engine are what make the Frontier super cool. 

Both models are very outstanding, but who will take the crown? Let’s put them head-to-head.

Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma: Head-to-Head Breakdown

For years, if you wanted a mid-size truck, the Toyota Tacoma was the default answer. It’s the undisputed king of the hill, famous for being tough and holding its value like nothing else. But now, Nissan has come out swinging with a completely redesigned Frontier, aiming right for that crown. Now let’s go deep into the detailed comparison between the two models:

Nissan Frontier vs Toyota Tacoma specs

Here’s a quick look at the numbers for the most popular models of Tacoma and Frontier.

Design 

Both the Tacoma and Frontier have a cool, rugged look that calls back to their classic 80s designs. But that’s where the styling similarities end for this year. Toyota just launched an all-new 4th-generation Tacoma from the ground up, while the recently redesigned Nissan Frontier remains unchanged for the latest model in 2022. 

However, in terms of the off-road design, the Tacoma has a truck’s brawny off-road stance compared to the Frontier, with a heritage grille and an LED light bar.

Additionally, both are available in two different cab types and two different bed lengths, making them the most configurable trucks in the midsize segment. 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.

Inside the Cab: Nissan Frontier vs Toyota Tacoma interior

This is where the two trucks feel worlds apart. The Frontier’s interior is more comfortable and spacious than the Tacoma, with more front legroom at 42.3 inches compared to the 41.8 inches of the Tacoma. In terms of interior design and materials, the Frontiers are far from low rent, but they aren’t quite as fancy as what you’ll find in newer rivals such as the Tacoma. 

Both trucks offer a big four-door cab that seats five people. The difference is in their smaller, extended cab models. Nissan’s King Cab has small rear seats, so it can fit four people in a pinch. Toyota’s XtraCab, however, is strictly a two-seater and has no back seats at all.

Engine and power

When it comes to the V6 standard engine version, the Nissan Frontier won over the Toyota Tacoma. The Frontier’s powerful 3.8-liter V6 engine can produce 310 horsepower, while the Tacoma only reaches 228 horsepower.

Though the 3.5 L V6 is reliable in the Tacoma, it feels less powerful than the Frontier’s, and its 6-speed transmission can sometimes feel like it’s hunting for the right gear.  However, in the latest version, the Tacoma has an available hybrid option that can produce 326 horsepower, while the Frontier only has one V6 engine option. 

Towing capacity

Speaking of towing, it’s clear both of these pickup trucks are built to work, making it a favorite among drivers who need a truck ready for any task. That powerful V6 engine gives the Frontier a maximum towing capacity of 7,150 pounds, while the Toyota only has 6,500 pounds.
While this difference may seem significant, the new Tacoma offers greater flexibility, as multiple trims and drivetrain options can achieve its maximum towing capacity.

In contrast, the Frontier truck’s peak towing capability is limited to a single model and configuration. This makes the Tacoma a more versatile choice, providing strong towing capability across a broader range of trims without compromising efficiency.

Fuel efficiency

The Toyota Tacoma generally offers slightly better fuel economy compared to the Nissan Frontier. The Toyota Tacoma achieves an estimated 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway, whereas the Nissan Frontier offers 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. The Tacoma is more fuel-efficient, making it a better long-term investment for cost-conscious drivers.

Recently, Toyota will also offer an i-FORCE MAX hybrid version, which will be the clear fuel-efficiency champion of the two, likely getting even better mileage.

Nissan Frontier vs Toyota Tacoma reliability

Both have legendary reputations when it comes to longevity and durability. However, Tacoma is particularly well known for being a simple, reliable workhorse that can last for hundreds of thousands of problem-free miles.

It’s not uncommon to see 10-year-old Tacomas sell for over half of what they cost new. This is the single biggest reason people buy them. But don’t discount the Frontier. The Nissan Frontier’s recent updates have closed the gap, offering a reliable package with contemporary features.

Price

The Nissan Frontier does have a lower cost in general compared to the Tacoma, while the Tacoma provides consistent value with its robust performance. However, the 2025 Frontier versions have a starting price that is expensive than the current entry-level Tacoma.

The starting price of the Tacoma 2025 is $31,590 for the base SR model, with the Limited trim starting at $50,779, while the 2025 Nissan Frontier price starts from $32,050.

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The Final Verdict: Which Truck is Right for You?

Our answer is, don’t just look for a “winner.” The right truck depends entirely on what you value most.

There are areas where the Tacoma excels, like good reliability, top-tier off-road performance, efficiency, and best resale value, but the Frontier offers more towing, better high-speed control, and more affordability. The Nissan might not get the same amount of love as the Tacoma, but it’s still worth your attention — and dollars.

Both the Frontier and Tacoma are fantastic mid-size trucks. The right choice comes down to what you value more: the Frontier’s modern power and comfort, or the Tacoma’s legendary track record of toughness and value.

Which midsize truck is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!