The Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma are two legendary midsized trucks that have dominated the market for over a decade. The Tacoma saw a complete redesign in 2016, bringing it into the modern era, whereas the Nissan Frontier stood on its traditional base until recently with the 2022 models. So how do they match up? Which is better now and has the superior older models? Read on to find out.
Toyota Tacoma Vs. Nissan Frontier Head To Head History
The Toyota Tacoma is a competent vehicle and has been a leader in its niche since its inception in 1994, when it didn't see a redesign until 2004, and then again in 2016. It has always boasted consistent power and reliability yet now suffers from a dated style, and newer models lack many modern features. Making its way and sticking to what works, you can't go wrong with a Tacoma of any model year, although you may find them lacking compared to their contemporaries.
Nissan shares similar roots to the Toyota Tacoma. Starting a couple of years later, in 1997 and seeing a redesign in 2005, it was hailed as one of the most modern and powerful mid-sized trucks in its class. However, it struggled to keep pace during the mid-2010s before seeing a stylish overhaul with the more recent 2022 models. While the intervening models of now-used Nissans are by no means lacking in terms of reliability, they took quite a while to move into the modern age. Yet, moving into the modern era, they did. Now boasting all the luxuries and connectivity features of other vehicles, the generation 3 Frontier is miles ahead of the somewhat dated Tacoma.
Regarding the basic packages of each vehicle, the Tacoma has long served its purpose, although recent models lag behind the competitors. While the newest generations of Tacoma come with several different trim types, which can tailor for any use, the Frontier has a slight advantage. With fewer trim options, the baseline Nissan Frontier has more to offer regarding infotainment, versatility, and reliability for any situation. Prices of each base model are relatively similar as well, although they can fluctuate for used models due to many factors. Which is better will come down to your specific needs, although if you're looking for a Swiss Army Knife kind of truck, the Frontier manages to be leagues ahead.
Warranty
Depending upon the model year that you are looking at, the warranties may vary, although current new models of the Tacoma and Frontier share the following:
- Standard warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles
Performance
The Tacoma and the Frontier have similar towing capacities, often within around 500 lbs depending upon the model. Although, the maximum towing with options is slightly more generous thanks to the Tacoma's marginally larger optional trim models. However, where the Tacoma can tow more, the Frontier offers more torque and a pluckier engine option, which feels better to drive even with heavy loads in the back. Efficiency can vary depending on engine type and the decision between RWD or AWD (an available option on both vehicles), meaning there isn't a decisive performance winner.
Which Is Better?
With its recent redesign, the newer Nissan Frontiers have a far greater efficiency and modern feel, while the Tacoma struggles to keep up and is a better consideration only for the oldest of models, which can come with a host of issues and lack staying power.
See New And Used Nissan Frontiers At Charlie Clark Nissan El Paso
Call us at (915) 233-2730, check out our inventory online, or come down to schedule a test drive and see the power of the Nissan Frontier.
