2023 Nissan Frontier vs 2023 Toyota Tacoma
Overview | |
MSRP$29,570 | MSRP$28,600 |
Average price$32,329 | Average price$36,904 |
Listings1941 | Listings3846 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.3 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.3 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
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2023 Nissan Frontier Reviews SummaryFortunately, Nissan appears to be happy with it: The automaker’s midsize truck gets just a few minor tweaks, mostly in the form of additional standard features, in the second year of its current iteration. We spent a day putting the 2023 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X through its paces on- and off-road. | |
2023 Toyota Tacoma Reviews SummaryThe Toyota Tacoma has reached “Legend” status: it’s the default choice for many shoppers, and for good reason. The Tacoma enjoys a hard-earned reputation for bullet-proof reliability. It’s the ideal size for many situations. It looks cool and, in TRD Pro trim, it can back up those looks with genuine off-road brilliance. But heavy is the head that wears the crown, and the current Tacoma may be starting to buckle under the weight. With more powerful and more efficient options emerging in the compact and midsize truck space, Toyota is no longer the one-stop shop for shoppers. Luckily, a new Tacoma may be just over the horizon. | |
No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine3.8L 310 hp V6 | Engine2.7L 159 hp I4 |
Drive Train4X2 | Drive Train4X2 |
Seating Capacity4 | Seating Capacity4 |
Horsepower310 hp @ 6400 rpm | Horsepower159 hp @ 5200 rpm |
MPG City18 | MPG City20 |
MPG Highway24 | MPG Highway23 |
Engine | |
Engine Name3.8L 310 hp V6 | Engine Name2.7L 159 hp I4 |
Torque281 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm | Torque180 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm |
Horsepower310 hp @ 6400 rpm | Horsepower159 hp @ 5200 rpm |
Drivetrain4X2 | Drivetrain4X2 |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City18 | MPG City20 |
MPG Highway24 | MPG Highway23 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity4 | Seating Capacity4 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Bed Length73.3 in | Bed Length73.7 in |
Curb Weight4343 lbs | Curb Weight3915 lbs |
Height71.7 in | Height70.6 in |
Length210.2 in | Length212.3 in |
Width84.1 in | Width74.4 in |
Wheelbase126.0 in | Wheelbase127.4 in |
Maximum Payload1600 lbs | Maximum Payload1685 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity6720 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity3500 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $29,570 | $28,600 |
Average price | $32,329 | $36,904 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 8.3 out of 10Read full review | 7.3 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
Summary | Fortunately, Nissan appears to be happy with it: The automaker’s midsize truck gets just a few minor tweaks, mostly in the form of additional standard features, in the second year of its current iteration. We spent a day putting the 2023 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X through its paces on- and off-road. | The Toyota Tacoma has reached “Legend” status: it’s the default choice for many shoppers, and for good reason. The Tacoma enjoys a hard-earned reputation for bullet-proof reliability. It’s the ideal size for many situations. It looks cool and, in TRD Pro trim, it can back up those looks with genuine off-road brilliance. But heavy is the head that wears the crown, and the current Tacoma may be starting to buckle under the weight. With more powerful and more efficient options emerging in the compact and midsize truck space, Toyota is no longer the one-stop shop for shoppers. Luckily, a new Tacoma may be just over the horizon. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 3.8L 310 hp V6 | 2.7L 159 hp I4 |
Drive Train | 4X2 | 4X2 |
Seating Capacity | 4 | 4 |
Horsepower | 310 hp @ 6400 rpm | 159 hp @ 5200 rpm |
MPG City | 18 | 20 |
MPG Highway | 24 | 23 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 3.8L 310 hp V6 | 2.7L 159 hp I4 |
Torque | 281 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm | 180 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm |
Horsepower | 310 hp @ 6400 rpm | 159 hp @ 5200 rpm |
Drivetrain | 4X2 | 4X2 |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 18 | 20 |
MPG Highway | 24 | 23 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 4 | 4 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Bed Length | 73.3 in | 73.7 in |
Curb Weight | 4343 lbs | 3915 lbs |
Height | 71.7 in | 70.6 in |
Length | 210.2 in | 212.3 in |
Width | 84.1 in | 74.4 in |
Wheelbase | 126.0 in | 127.4 in |
Maximum Payload | 1600 lbs | 1685 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 6720 lbs | 3500 lbs |
The 2023 Nissan Frontier continued to impress with its rugged design, a nod to the iconic 1986 Nissan Hardbody. This model year introduced the Midnight Edition for the SV trim, accentuating the vehicle's tough appearance with a blacked-out grille, wheels, and other dark accents, making it visually striking. The premium trims, Pro-X and Pro-4X, boasted vibrant Lava Red interior stitching and accents, adding a sense of adventure from the inside out.
On the other hand, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma maintained its robust, assertive look with a conspicuous upright grille and a tall bed profile. Toyota offered the Tacoma in numerous configurations, adding the SR5 SX package which brought in black stylistic touches and the counter Chrome Package, underscoring flexibility in aesthetics. The TRD Pro model stood out with its bold Solar Octane paint and a distinctive grille emblazoned with "TOYOTA," making it an undeniable centerpiece in any environment.
In both models, the appearance and design conveyed a clear message of robustness and readiness for any adventure, yet each maintained unique traits that catered to diverse preferences in style and functionality.
The 2023 Nissan Frontier boasted a 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering a powerful 310 hp and 281 lb-ft torque, which paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This set-up was designed to perform solidly both on highways and rugged terrains, supported by optional four-wheel-drive capabilities that included a manual shift mode. With a towing capacity up to 6720 pounds and enhanced ride comfort due to new suspension tuning, the Frontier was both a workhorse and a comfortable cruiser.
Conversely, the Toyota Tacoma offered a choice between a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and a more potent 3.5-liter V6, the latter outputting 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. Multiple transmissions and the option for four-wheel drive provided versatility, though the Tacoma was noted for a less refined ride quality and significant cabin noise at speed. The fuel efficiency varied, generally falling below the Frontier's, with specialized configurations like TRD Pro affecting performance metrics such as fuel economy particularly during demanding driving conditions.
When it came to utility and comfort, both trucks had distinct offerings. The 2023 Nissan Frontier came in two cab styles: the more spacious Crew Cab and the smaller King Cab. It emphasized functionality with up to 46.4 cubic feet of bed volume and smart features like a hydraulically assisted tailgate for ease of use in loading and unloading. The Frontier was not only about carrying cargo but ensuring a comfortable ride with features like Zero Gravity seats and ample interior storage solutions, enhancing everyday usability.
The Toyota Tacoma also provided choices in cab configurations and bed lengths, though it compromised interior spaciousness, especially in the rear seats of the access cab. The double cab version afforded better space and accessibility, yet some ergonomic details such as the positioning of the steering wheel and pedals detracted from the overall comfort for drivers, particularly taller ones. Storage and cargo were adequate but lagged in ergonomic refinement compared to the Frontier.
Technology in the Nissan Frontier leaned towards modern expectations with wireless Apple CarPlay available on higher trims, a relatively large touchscreen, and a comprehensive digital gauge cluster that was particularly handy off-road. Likewise, the Tacoma kept pace with necessary technology integrations like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a functional if dated, infotainment system, supported by options such as a JBL audio system. However, Nissan's forward-looking tech offerings, especially in connectivity and entertainment, gave it a slight edge over the Tacoma, which presented a more conservative tech package.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Nissan Frontier is 8.3 out of 10, while the 2023 Toyota Tacoma scores 7.3 out of 10. The Frontier edges ahead mainly due to its more refined performance capabilities, advanced in-cabin technologies, and thoughtful interior design. For those seeking a well-rounded vehicle that excels in both daily usability and occasional adventurous demands, the Nissan Frontier emerges as the preferred choice.
Choose the 2023 Nissan Frontier if:
- You prioritize a blend of performance and comfort with a robust towing capacity.
- Modern technology and connectivity are crucial for your daily vehicle use.
- You prefer a vehicle with a functional design that includes smart storage and cargo solutions.
Choose the 2023 Toyota Tacoma if:
- You value a truck with a proven track record and a robust suite of standard safety features.
- Off-road capability in trims like the TRD Pro is a priority for your driving needs.
- Aesthetics and a variety of customization options are important for your personal or professional use.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Nissan Frontier is 8.3 out of 10, while the 2023 Toyota Tacoma scores 7.3 out of 10. The Frontier edges ahead mainly due to its more refined performance capabilities, advanced in-cabin technologies, and thoughtful interior design. For those seeking a well-rounded vehicle that excels in both daily usability and occasional adventurous demands, the Nissan Frontier emerges as the preferred choice.
Choose the 2023 Nissan Frontier if:
Shop Now- You prioritize a blend of performance and comfort with a robust towing capacity.
- Modern technology and connectivity are crucial for your daily vehicle use.
- You prefer a vehicle with a functional design that includes smart storage and cargo solutions.
Choose the 2023 Toyota Tacoma if:
Shop Now- You value a truck with a proven track record and a robust suite of standard safety features.
- Off-road capability in trims like the TRD Pro is a priority for your driving needs.
- Aesthetics and a variety of customization options are important for your personal or professional use.
By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.