Nissan Frontier vs Toyota Tundra

The Frontier is built on bones that date back more than two decades. Nissan re-skinned this midsize pickup truck for the 2022 model year, carrying over its relatively new powertrain and primarily changing only what you can see and touch, which is why it drives more like an old-school truck than most of its rivals. Nevertheless, Nissan has continually improved the Frontier, a process that continues for the 2026 model year with extra standard equipment for some models and new option packages.

Verdict: We like the 2026 Nissan Frontier despite its old-school nature. It feels solid, it's simple, it exudes quality, and it's reasonably fuel efficient. Plus, it can tow more than a Toyota Tacoma. An obtuse digital assistant and a concerning crash-test rating are primary reasons to consider alternatives.

As the third-generation Toyota Tundra enters its third model year, it adds some new tech features (including an available massaging seat in upper trims) and a retro TRD Rally Package inspired by Toyota Racing Development’s motorsports exploits. Though the mustachioed front-end design was polarizing at launch, it’s starting to grow on us, and we love the tech-forward interior and available hybrid powertrain.

Verdict: The 2025 Toyota Tundra puts a fresh face on the full-size pickup truck segment and is full of interesting and useful technology. However, it does fall short of some competitors with lower max tow ratings and the lack of front recovery hooks. For those worried about reliability and recalls, know that Toyota has fixed the engine issue that plagued 2022 to 2024 models.