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Nissan Frontier Vs. Toyota Tacoma Comparison & Differences
A Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma comparison reveals much about these longstanding rivals. Where the Tacoma shines with excellent features and an efficient hybrid engine, the Frontier offers greater towing capacity and a more spacious front row. Our DARCARS Automotive Group representatives are happy to help you tour both before you decide on your next pickup.
2024 Nissan Frontier vs. 2024 Toyota Tacoma Comparison at a Glance
- The Frontier offers the higher-horsepower standard engine, but the Tacoma hybrid option is the most dominant choice between the two trucks.
- The Frontier features a higher towing capacity, while the Tacoma sports a longer, deeper pickup bed.
- Explore a range of fantastic features, like the standard Siri® Eyes Free tech in the Nissan Frontier or the available 14-inch media station in the Tacoma.
- Both pickups offer superb standard driver-assistance systems.
Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma Specs & Performance
Knowing how these trucks run is a crucial starting point for your shopping journey. The Nissan Frontier only offers a single engine, but it's potent. The 3.8-liter V-6 that powers every model of the Nissan Frontier produces 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque. The Frontier powertrain pairs with a nine-speed automatic transmission and gives you a drivetrain choice of 4x2 or 4x4, letting you cater your drive to a better 2WD MPG rating of 18/24/21 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1 or the improved traction of 4WD.
The Tacoma has two engines. The standard option is the i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged I-4, which makes 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. The other engine is a hybrid system, improving the horsepower and torque to 326 and 465 pound-feet, respectively. Thanks to i-FORCE MAX hybrid technology, the Tacoma Hybrid has a max EPA-estimated MPG rating of 23/24/24 (City/Highway/Combined).2
By default, the Tacoma sends its power through an eight-speed automatic transmission. However, certain trims offer a six-speed manual option for those wanting complete control of their drive.
Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier Towing & Cargo
Of the three engines, the V-6 is your choice for a powerful hauler. Where the Tacoma can pull 6,500 pounds 3 with the lower-horsepower standard option, the Frontier can bring along slightly more, with 6,640 pounds of trailering capacity on select trims.4 The difference becomes starker when you equip the hybrid engine to the Tacoma, with that option only capable of hauling 6,000 pounds. 3
The hybrid Tacoma engine has an edge in payload capacity, though. At 1,705 pounds, the TRD Off-Road i-FORCE MAX trim can carry a bit more than the 1,620-pound limit5 in a Frontier King Cab 4x2.
2024 Nissan Frontier vs. 2024 Toyota Tacoma Trim Levels
As briefly mentioned, the Frontier and Tacoma configurations can change performance and standard features. And there are a lot of options to tour through! The Frontier, for example, has six trims:
- S
- SV
- PRO-X
- PRO-4X
- SL
- Hardbody Edition
The S, SV, and SL editions can have 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains. Additionally, the S and SV editions are the only ones that can be customized with the King Cab configuration option, tightening the back rows to prioritize efficiency. The SV model comes with a Long Bed option, giving you more room for your payload – 73.3 inches of pickup box length, which unlocks up to 49.2 cubic feet of cargo volume.
The Tacoma is even more diverse, with the following trims:
- SR
- SR5
- TRD PreRunner (Hybrid available)
- TRD Sport (Hybrid available)
- TRD Off-Road (Hybrid available)
- Limited (Hybrid available)
- Trailhunter
- TRD Pro
Like the Frontier, the SR and SR5 models can equip the two-seat XtraCab to improve bed space or the Double Cab to give this truck five seats. The later models don't focus as heavily on customizability, instead offering improved suspension and fantastic technology features.
Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier Dimensions
Once you see a Tacoma and Frontier side by side, you'll immediately notice how close the dimension race is. These two pickups are similarly sized, with the Tacoma offering a few inches of additional length over the Nissan model. Check out the chart below to see how the Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma size and box specs shake out.
2024 Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma Specs
| Nissan Frontier | Toyota Tacoma | |
| Engine | 3.8L V-6 |
|
| Horsepower | 310 |
|
| Torque | 281 lb-ft |
|
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
|
| Drive Type |
|
|
| Maximum EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) |
|
|
| Towing Capacity | 6,640 lbs4 | 6,500 lbs3 |
| Length | 210.2 - 224.1 in | 213 - 227.4 in |
| Width | 73 - 74.7 in | 76.9 - 79.9 in |
| Legroom (Front / Rear) | 42.3 / 26.2 - 33.2 in | 41.8 / 33.7 in |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 2 - 5 |
| Pickup Box Length | 59.5 - 73.3 in | 60.3 - 73.5 in |
| Maximum Pickup Box Width | 61.4 in | 56.4 in |
| Pickup Box Depth | 19.4 in | 20.2 - 21.1 in |
Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier Convenience Features
In addition to size, these trucks also have a lot in common when it comes to standard features. For instance, on the entry-level Tacoma SR, you'll be entertained with an 8-inch multimedia display with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, fabric seating, a smart key system, and LED lighting. A Frontier S has similar amenities: an 8-inch multimedia display, remote keyless entry with push-button start, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ functionality, and cloth seats.
However, as you climb, the Tacoma pulls ahead in technology. Here are some Tacoma feature highlights you can try as you explore more luxurious trims.
- 14-inch multimedia center
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Advanced off-roading features, like Multi-Terrain Select
The Nissan Frontier still receives impressive upgrades, like the Nissan Intelligent Key or remote engine start, that improve your drive dramatically. While the Frontier doesn't offer quite as much as some high-end trims in the Tacoma lineup, these pickups are generally competitive regarding features per dollar invested.
Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma Reliability & Safety
The extra technology the Toyota Tacoma offers requires some additional care, though. According to J.D. Power, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma received a reliability score of 79/100 – "Average" by the site's metrics.7 Meanwhile, the 2023 Frontier received a "Great" reliability score of 84/100. 8 Therefore, the Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma longevity comparison favors the Frontier. However, with proper care and maintenance, both vehicles can readily last more than 300,000 miles.
Thanks to advanced driver-assistance options like a Head-Up Display, integrated Trailer Camera, and Parking Assist, high-end Tacoma trims elevate your automated safety. The Frontier makes it a close race with its Technology Package, which provides Traffic Sign Information, Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Automatic Braking, among other impressive driver-support systems.
Browse Our Locations for Both Trucks
We at DARCARS Automotive Group know that the scrappy and effective Nissan Frontier or the future-facing Toyota Tacoma would both be valuable additions to your garage.
If you want to try either option today, find your local dealership. DARCARS Automotive Group supplies both of these trucks at varying locations. Our team of experienced staff can help you narrow your options to select a workhorse worth your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Frontier better than a Tacoma?
The Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma each have different pros and cons. While the Tacoma has better MPG ratings and a slightly larger pickup box, the Nissan Frontier has a higher maximum towing capacity and impressive front-row legroom. Both trucks have competitive standard features, like a standard 8-inch multimedia center, so your decision is best made after a test drive.
Will a Nissan Frontier last as long as a Toyota Tacoma?
Long-term drivers of Frontier models have quoted a lifespan of over 300,000 miles, making it very competitive with the similar duration a Toyota Tacoma can last. For both the Frontier and Tacoma, it's essential to follow a steady maintenance schedule, pay attention to the weather in your region, and tow responsibly if you want your pickup truck to approach these lofty figures.
Is Nissan quality as good as Toyota?
Yes, Nissan trucks tackle the road with excellent quality, just like Toyota trucks. According to drivers who purchased a Frontier, model years like 2023 held J.D. Power "Reliability" and "Resale" ratings of 84/100.8 This reliability is over the Tacoma score of 79/100 but under the Tacoma Resale rating of 96/100,7 showing how competitive these trucks are.
12024 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 18 City MPG / 24 Highway MPG / 21 Combined MPG for Nissan Frontier 4x2. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
2EPA-estimated 20 city/26 highway/23 combined mpg rating for 2024 Tacoma SR 4x2 2.4L i-FORCE automatic; EPA-estimated 19 city/24 highway/21 combined mpg rating for 2024 Tacoma SR, SR5 4x4 2.4L i-FORCE automatic; EPA-estimated 18 city/23 highway/20 combined mpg rating for 2024 Tacoma SR 4x2, TRD Sport 4x2, TRD Off-Road 4x4 2.4L i-FORCE manual; EPA-estimated 21 city/26 highway/23 combined mpg rating for 2024 Tacoma SR5 4x2 2.4L i-FORCE automatic; EPA-estimated 20 city/24 highway/22 combined mpg rating for 2024 Tacoma TRD PreRunner, TRD Sport 4x2 2.4L i-FORCE automatic; EPA-estimated 19 city/23 highway/20 combined mpg rating for 2024 Tacoma TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road 4x4 2.4L i-FORCE automatic; EPA-estimated 19 city/23 highway/21 combined mpg rating for 2024 Tacoma TRD Off-Road 4x4 2.4L i-FORCE automatic; EPA-estimated 20 city/23 highway/21 combined mpg rating for 2024 Tacoma Limited 4x4 2.4L i-FORCE automatic. Projected EPA-estimated 22 city/24 highway/23 combined mpg rating for 2024 Tacoma TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Trailhunter, TRD Pro 4x4 2.4L i-FORCE MAX automatic as determined by manufacturer; projected EPA-estimated 23 city/24 highway/24 combined mpg rating for 2024 Tacoma Limited 4x4 2.4L i-FORCE MAX automatic as determined by manufacturer. EPA estimates available only for models as noted at time of posting. Use 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.
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.
5Maximum payload capacity when properly equipped. Payload capacity varies by configuration. See Nissan Towing Guide and Owner's Manual for additional information.
62024 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 18 City MPG / 23 Highway MPG / 20 Combined MPG for Nissan Frontier 4x4. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
7This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2024/toyota/tacoma
8This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/nissan/frontier
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