Toyota Tacoma Vs. Nissan Frontier: Performance Comparison

The Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier debate is a tough one, as both midsize trucks offer impressive power, durability, and configurations. Whether you're seeking off-road adventure, towing capability, or everyday practicality, these two pickups deliver. But which one takes the cake?

In this in-depth comparison, we'll examine performance, fuel economy, and size to show how we believe the Tacoma edges out the Frontier in key areas. Join us as McGee Toyota of Claremont helps you determine which truck best suits your lifestyle.

Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier Trims

Both the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier offer a range of trims designed for different driving needs, from practical work trucks to off-road-ready models. The Frontier presents five trim levels, focusing on a balance of performance, comfort, and off-road capability.

However, the Tacoma offers six gas-powered trims and an additional five hybrid variants, giving buyers more variety, especially for off-road enthusiasts and overlanders. Let's take a look at the options for both:

2025 Toyota Tacoma

• SR
• SR5
• TRD PreRunner
• TRD Sport
• TRD Off-Road
• Limited
• TRD Sport i-FORCE MAX
• TRD Off-Road i-FORCE MAX
• Limited i-FORCE MAX
• Trailhunter
• TRD Pro

2025 Nissan Frontier

• S
• SV
• PRO-X
• PRO-4X
• SL

Both midsize trucks offer two cab styles, your choice between rear or four-wheel drive, and a 5-foot or 6-foot bed. However, the Tacoma stands out with its larger overall size, which we'll dive into later in our Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma comparison.

Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier Specs & Performance

When comparing the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier, performance is a key factor in deciding which midsize truck best suits your needs. Both models offer impressive powertrains and towing capabilities, but differ engine options and overall driving dynamics.

The Nissan Frontier offers a standard 3.8-liter V-6 engine that boasts 310 horsepower and is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission; this is the only powertrain offered across the entire lineup.

The Tacoma, on the other hand, gives drivers the choice of two powertrain options, including the standard gas-powered i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and the high-output i-FORCE 2.4-liter hybrid engine. You also get the option of either an eight-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission.

The Nissan does take the lead in terms of horsepower when comparing standard engines, with the Tacoma hitting a max of 278 horsepower compared to the 310 horsepower on the Frontier. However, a closer look at the specs shows us that Tacoma trucks with the standard engine generate 317 pound-feet of torque whereas the Nissan truck only hits 281 pound-feet of torque – with no option to upgrade.

But the Tacoma isn't done. The innovative i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrain really shines in the 2025 Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier comparison, churning out 326 horsepower and a beastly 465 pound-feet of torque. In addition, the hybrid option is going to help you achieve an impressive gas mileage rating, with up to an EPA-estimated 23/24/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).¹

Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier Towing Capacity

The Nissan Frontier boasts a slightly higher maximum towing capacity than the Toyota Tacoma, with the ability to haul up to 7,150 pounds.³ However, the Tacoma isn't far behind, offering a maximum 6,500-pound towing capacity when properly equipped. While this difference may seem significant, a closer look at the trims that achieve these maximum ratings reveals some notable trade-offs.

The Frontier King Cab S RWD Long Bed is the only configuration that reaches the 7,150-pound towing capacity, but it comes with up to an EPA-estimated 19/24/21 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).⁴ In contrast, the Tacoma SR XtraCab RWD with a 6-foot bed, one of the trims capable of towing 6,500 pounds,² delivers a more fuel-efficient rating with up to an EPA-estimated 20/26/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).¹ This raises an important question: Do you sacrifice better fuel economy for an additional 660 pounds of towing power?

Additionally, the new Toyota 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.

Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier Size

As mentioned above, both these midsize trucks offer a choice of a 5-foot or 6-foot bed; however, the boxes on the Tacoma are longer than the Frontier. The Tacoma 6-foot bed comes out to 73.5 inches; the 5-foot option measures 60.3 inches. The Frontier falls behind, with the standard bed reaching 59.5 inches and the long bed coming out to 73.3 inches.

When it comes to exterior dimensions, the Tacoma stands out with its larger size in length, height, and width. Plus, the Tacoma boasts up to 11.5 inches of ground clearance, whereas the Frontier offers up to 8.6 inches.

In conclusion, while both the Toyota Tacoma and the Nissan Frontier offer versatile bed options, the Tacoma takes the lead with longer lengths, providing more space for your gear and equipment. Additionally, the Tacoma truck's larger exterior dimensions and impressive ground clearance offer enhanced capability, especially for off-road adventures.

Explore the New Toyota Tacoma Truck Today!

With its ability to offer a range of engine and transmission options, multiple trims and configurations, better fuel economy, and higher ground clearance, the new Toyota Tacoma ensures that no task is too big, no adventure too far. Contact McGee Toyota of Claremont today to learn more about the difference between these two trucks, including a Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma reliability comparison.

Experience the might of the Toyota Tacoma today and see for yourself why this midsize truck is a force to be reckoned with! Get started with our current Toyota Tacoma lease deals and drive home this brand-new truck that combines power, performance, and rugged style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which truck is better, Toyota Tacoma or Nissan Frontier?

While both the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier are strong contenders in the midsize truck category, the Tacoma surpasses the Frontier in several key areas, including more engine options, higher torque, better fuel efficiency, and larger bed sizes. Additionally, the Tacoma offers a broader selection of trims, including five hybrid options (which the Frontier lacks) and the choice of a manual transmission for a more hands-on driving experience.

What is the difference between the Nissan Frontier engine and the Toyota Tacoma engine?

The Nissan Frontier comes with a single standard engine across the lineup, delivering 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque. In comparison, the Toyota Tacoma offers two powertrain options: a 2.4-liter turbo engine and a 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid setup. The gas-powered engine outperforms the Frontier in torque, generating 317 pound-feet, while the hybrid variant delivers a powerful 326 horsepower.

What is the towing capacity of the Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier?

The Toyota Tacoma boasts a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds when properly equipped, while the Nissan Frontier reaches a higher max tow rating of 7,150 pounds.³ However, the Frontier can only achieve this maximum capacity on one trim with rear-wheel drive, whereas the Tacoma can reach its towing capability across multiple trims, offering both four-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive options.

¹Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.

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.

³Towing capacity varies by configuration. See Nissan Towing Guide and Owner’s Manual for additional information. Always secure cargo.

⁴2025 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 19 City MPG / 24 Highway MPG / 21 Combined MPG for Nissan Frontier. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.