2022 Nissan Frontier vs. 2022 Toyota Tacoma

Looking for a small pickup truck with big-time power? Plenty of Oxnard-area drivers are comparing the Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma, but there are some key differences that Oxnard buyers should know before making a choice. The Toyota Tacoma is a superb off-road vehicle and comes with two engine options; while the Nissan Frontier comes standard with a V6 engine, it’s the sole option—and the Frontier isn’t quite as capable as the Tacoma once you leave the pavement. Ventura Toyota dives into the details in our Tacoma vs. Frontier matchup, below!

Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma: Performance

The Frontier and the Tacoma are designed to appeal to different types of drivers, so deciding between them has a lot to do with the intended purpose of your truck. If you’re looking for a small pickup that’s as powerful as larger models, you’ll appreciate the Friontier’s bigger engine—but be prepared for the bigger price tag that comes with it. If you need a truck that can assist with everyday home improvement tasks or small business functions around Santa Barbara, then you can get all the power you need from the Tacoma for a lower price. Compare their specs and engine options, below:

Toyota Tacoma Engine Options

• Standard 2.7L DOHC 16-Valve 4-Cylinder: 159 hp and 180 pound-feet of torque
• Available 3.5L V6: 278 hp and 265 pound-feet of torque

Nissan Frontier Engine Options

• 3.8L Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) DOHC 24-valve V6: 310 hp and 281 pound-feet of torque

Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma: Reliability

A new pickup is a major investment, so it’s no surprise that most buyers want to know more about how a vehicle will hold up over the years to come. J.D. Power compiles reliability scores for most new models based on the level of defects, malfunctions, and design flaws experienced by vehicle owners. Vehicles are scored on a scale of 100, and a higher rating equals fewer problems.

Based on the most recent available ratings for both models, comparing Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma reliability scores reveals that the two are nearly neck-and-neck—earning 80/100 and 81/100, respectively. That’s great news for Camarillo-area buyers, who can count on either pickup to deliver lasting performance.

Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma: Towing 

With its powerful base engine, the Frontier can tow over 6,000 pounds in any configuration—but Tacoma’s power tops out higher—for a max towing capacity of up to 6,800 pounds—with its available 278-horsepower 3.5-liter V6:

• 2022 Nissan Frontier Towing Capacity: 6,260 to 6,720 pounds
• 2022 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity: 3,500 to 6,800 pounds

Test Drive a Toyota Tacoma for Sale in Ventura

In the end, the best way to find the right truck is to get out on the road! Stop by our Ventura dealership to continue your Tacoma vs. Frontier comparison in person. While you’re here, our team can tell you more about leasing vs. buying options and our current new vehicle specials!