2023 Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma

The midsize pickup has a unique space in the market. While these don’t have the towing and hauling power of the full-size trucks, they offer flexibility, utility, and off-road capabilities in an easy-to-drive package that will fit in smaller spaces. The Nissan Frontier received a refresh last year and continues to impress in 2023. Take a look at how it compares to the Toyota Tacoma.

The Nissan Frontier Outmuscles the Tacoma

While both the Frontier and Tacoma have plenty of power, the Frontier outmuscles the Tacoma when it comes down to the numbers. All models have a 3.8-liter V-6 engine with 310 horsepower and an impressive 281 pound-feet of torque. Compare this to the Tacoma with two engine options. The base is a 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 159 horsepower and a 3.5-liter V-6 that puts out 278 horsepower.

Off-Road Capabilities

Whether you choose the Nissan Frontier or the Toyota Tacoma, you’ll have some serious off-road chops. The adventure-ready Frontier is the Pro-4X trim. It comes with Bilstein shocks, skid plates, a locking rear differential for better traction, and all-terrain tires. The Tacoma TRD Off-Road also has Bilstein shocks and a lockable rear differential, and the TRD Pro adds all-terrain tires and an off-road suspension.

Interior Comfort and Convenience

The refresh in 2022 gave the Frontier one of the best interiors in the midsize pickup truck segment. It has soft-touch surfaces and offers a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and Nissan’s Zero Gravity seats for maximum comfort no matter how long of a drive you have.
The Tacoma’s cabin is slightly more spacious, but the materials and comfort don’t measure up to the Frontier. It offers a leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery, and heated front seats.

Technology for Drivers and Passengers

You’ll get a high-quality 8-inch touch screen in the base Frontier along with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Moving up the lineup gets you a 10-speaker Fender stereo system, a 9-inch touch screen, and the option for wireless charging. The Toyota starts with a smaller 7-inch touchscreen, but it has satellite radio, three USB ports, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. An 8-inch touch screen comes in the higher Tacoma trims.

Pickup Truck Beds Designed for Fun and Function

The Frontier’s rugged bed is extremely versatile. It has features that make hauling easier than ever and equipment to make tailing more fun and enjoyable. The available LED bed lighting sits under the rails casting light from within, so you can see in the bed even if you have a cover. The Utili-track Channel System has three channels and adjustable tie-down cleats, so you can secure all your gear or use it to securely transport bikes to your favorite riding spot.
The Tacoma’s composite bed is rugged and strong. It comes with Toyota’s deck rail system with tie-down cleats and an optional 120-volt outlet.
The 2023 Nissan Frontier edges out the Tacoma in a side-by-side comparison with its stronger engine and nicer cabin. Both these pickup trucks offer the utility and versatility any driver will want in a midsize pickup truck.