While full-size pickup trucks are some of the most popular options on the road today, there is an entire slew of midsize trucks that are stepping up the plate.
Drivers have always loved the Toyota Tacoma, but there is a newcomer competing for the role of being the midsize off-road favorite: the newly updated Nissan Frontier.
If you’re in the market for a midsize truck that can take you to new places, it’s time to consider the Nissan Frontier vs. the Toyota Tacoma. Here’s how they match up:
Two Off-Road Trims
When comparing the off-road abilities of the Nissan Frontier vs. the Toyota Tacoma, there are only two trims to consider. The Toyota comes in a TRD trim and Nissan in a Pro-4x model. There really aren’t any other options out there that can compare to these two incredible off-road truck models.
The TRD Pro can be built as either a double cab, two-wheel-drive truck with a five-foot bed, or an extended cab, four-wheel-drive pickup with a six-foot bed. You can find this off-road option starting at $35,510; the 4WD model will raise the price.
The Frontier Pro-4x keeps things a little more straightforward. It comes as a crew cab, four-wheel-drive truck with a five-foot bed. This beast will set you back $38,390 to start.
The Roar of an Off-Road Engine
When you’re looking at the Nissan Frontier vs. the Toyota Tacoma, you have to take some time to get to know what’s under the hood. The Tacoma is known for its potent 3.5-liter V6 engine that creates an impressive 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. You can drive this pickup with either a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission.
The Nissan Frontier brings a little extra power to the table. It comes with a 3.9-liter V6 engine that can boast 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. That’s 32 more ponies and 16 extra lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a solid nine-speed automatic transmission.
Off-Road Gear
Since the battle of the Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma is really about who can create new paths, it’s worth looking at what kind of off-road gear is available on each. Both of these great trucks come with Bilstein off-road shock absorbers, off-road suspension tuning, electronically locking rear differentials, and more.
The Nissan Pro-4x stands out with three underbody skid plates. The TRD doesn’t come with a skid plate, but one can be added for around $499. The Pro-4x sits on top of 17-inch wheels on 31.6-inch tall tires. The TRD comes with 16-inch wheels with 30.6-inch tall tires.
Final Thoughts
The Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma are both amazing trucks. They look tough, drive like a dream, and offer tons of available options. The Tacoma TRD and Frontier Pro-4x are incredible off-road trims that help make the world your playground. Shoppers would be happy with either truck.
The Tacoma has been a favorite for years. You can have a few more body and transmission options, and it comes at a slightly lower price. The Frontier, on the other hand, is a serious competitor. It offers more power from the engine compartment, a few additional off-road perks, and standard four-wheel-drive.
Stop by your local dealership to see these amazing trucks in action. You won’t be disappointed.
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