Compare Toyota Tacoma Vs. Nissan Frontier Performance
Does the rugged new Toyota Tacoma truck come out on top in a Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma comparison? We think so. See how these trucks stack up in our midsize pickup battle. Then, contact the McGee Automotive Family sales team when you're ready to find your preferred Tacoma trim at a driver-friendly price.
Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma at a Glance
- Toyota Tacoma has an available hybrid powertrain that produces 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque.
- The Nissan Frontier only has one engine option: a 310-horsepower V-6 with 281 pound-feet of torque.
- The 2025 Tacoma earns up to an EPA-estimated 23 MPG (Combined).1
- The 2025 Frontier only returns up to an EPA-estimated 21 MPG (Combined).2
Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier: Specs & Performance
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma delivers a tailored driving experience thanks to its range of potent powertrains. The new Tacoma lineup begins with the standard 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, complete with sequential shift mode and uphill and downhill shift logic.
While it has various tunings, it pumps out up to 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, with power routed to all four wheels or the rear wheels, depending on your drivetrain. Maximize this engine's gas mileage with a Toyota Tacoma configuration that earns up to an EPA-estimated 21/26/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1
The 2025 Nissan Frontier settles for just one engine: a 3.8-liter V-6. Compare the Nissan Frontier engine's 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque to the standard Tacoma engine, and it's a fair fight in terms of power output. However, the Tacoma edges out the Frontier in efficiency, with the latter only managing up to an EPA-estimated 19/24/21 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2
In our Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier performance comparison, the Tacoma comes out on top in both maximum power output and fuel economy. Only the Toyota model has a second engine option: a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, making more horsepower and torque than the Frontier. This Toyota hybrid truck setup also earns better MPG ratings than the Nissan model.
Enjoy the high-end power and capability of 465 pound-feet of torque and 326 horsepower in your new Toyota Tacoma hybrid pickup – or settle for less in the Nissan Frontier. If you choose more power and more efficiency, our McGee Automotive Family sales staff can assist you with securing a sporty new Toyota Tacoma.
Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier: Towing Capacity
Comparing the Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier in towing capacity leads to several tow ratings, depending on your configuration.
For instance, the popular Tacoma SR5 trim in the Double Cab style can pull 6,400 pounds when properly equipped. A Nissan Frontier PRO-4X Crew Cab 4x4 Long Bed model tows up to 6,310 pounds when properly equipped. But both midsize truck models offer a range of trailering ratings, so it's best to check with our sales team if you're after a Tacoma with particular capabilities.
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| 2025 Toyota Tacoma SR5 Double Cab | 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport i-FORCE MAX Double Cab | 2025 Nissan Frontier S Crew Cab | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.4L I-4 turbo | 2.4L I-4 turbo hybrid | 3.8L V-6 |
| Horsepower | 278 | 326 | 310 |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft | 465 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD or 4WD | 4WD | RWD or 4WD |
| Max. Towing Capacity | 6,400 lbs3 | 6,000 lbs3 | 7,040 lbs4 |
| Max. EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy) | 21 / 261 | 22 / 241 | 19 / 242 |
| Max. Length | 226.2 in | 213 in | 210.2 in |
| Width | 76.9 in | 77.9 in | 73 in |
| Max. Bed Length | 73.5 in | 60.3 in | 59.5 in |
| Max. Bed Depth | 21.2 in | 21.2 in | 19.4 in |
Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier: Interior Space
Modern midsize trucks like the 2025 Toyota Tacoma deliver much more than excellent power output, all-terrain driving, and all-day-work capabilities. The new Tacoma Double Cab trucks provide generous cabin space, up to the following:
- Headroom (Front/Rear): 39.7 inches/38.4 inches
- Legroom (Front/Rear): 41.8 inches/33.7 inches
The Crew Cab Frontier gives you similar interior space, with legroom measuring 42.3 inches up front and 33.2 inches in the second row.
Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier: Infotainment System & Technology
Enjoy the drive more with the convenience of large dual digital displays in your new Tacoma truck. The 2025 Tacoma pickups can be outfitted with an available 14-inch multimedia touchscreen accompanied by an available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, complete with selectable gauge designs.
If you were to opt for a 2025 Nissan Frontier, you would have to settle for a smaller available touchscreen measuring 12.3 inches.
What about off-roading and towing technologies? The Frontier can be had with an available Intelligent Around View Monitor with Off-Road Mode, but the Tacoma gives you more, with optional tech like a 3D Multi-Terrain Monitor, Trailer Backup Guide with Straight Path Assist, and a TRD-tuned suspension or Adaptive Variable Suspension.
Ready to get into a rugged Tacoma truck? View our Toyota vehicle specials and contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the differences in towing capacity between the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier?
The differences in towing capacity between the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier can vary significantly depending on the powertrain and cab configuration of both midsize truck models. In most cases, these pickups are neck and neck in tow ratings. The 2025 Frontier has a slightly higher maximum tow rating than the 2025 Tacoma, but the Toyota truck gives you more power and fuel economy.
Does the Toyota Tacoma or Nissan Frontier have more advanced safety features?
Both trucks have a substantial list of advanced safety features. The Tacoma boasts Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 safety technologies like:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Automatic High Beams
The Frontier gets Safety Shield 360 features like Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, and High Beam Assist.
Are there more trim options available for the Tacoma or the Frontier?
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma midsize truck is available in 11 diverse trim options, ranging from the no-nonsense SR work truck to all-terrain performance models like the Tacoma Trailhunter and TRD Pro. The 2025 Frontier is far more limited in its trim levels, with only five main trims offered. Explore all 11 Tacoma trims at a McGee Automotive Family dealer.
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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.
22025 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 19 City MPG / 24 Highway MPG / 21 Combined MPG for Frontier 2WD. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
3Before 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.
4Towing capacity varies by configuration. See Nissan Towing Guide and Owner’s Manual for additional information. Always secure cargo.