If you’re looking for a truck that’s ready to tackle tough jobs and weekend adventures, the 2025 Ford Ranger and Nissan Frontier are both great options, but each fills a unique need. How do you know which is best for you? With our 2025 pickup truck comparison, of course—take a deep dive into their features below!
Key Takeaways
- The Ford Ranger’s changes are largely cosmetic for 2025.
- The Ranger has more engine options, better fuel efficiency, and higher towing numbers than the Frontier.
- Ranger trims start at $34,675 and go up to $45,475; Frontier prices are between $33,560 and $43,320. Prices effective May 8, 2025.
Which Pickup Has More Upgrades: 2025 Nissan Frontier
Ford added some new paint colors to the Ranger, such as Ruby Red Metallic, Desert Sand, and Marsh Gray, while dropping Cactus Gray, Iconic Silver, and Hot Pepper Red. The automaker also added a Black Appearance Package that gives the grille, bumper, and wheels a more modern, sleek appearance.
Its three trims are:
- XL: $34,675
- XLT: $37,205
- Lariat: $45,475
Nissan’s Frontier gets a subtle but noticeable update. The front end now features a refreshed grille and bumper, along with updated wheels for the PRO-X and PRO-4X trims. There's also a new color option called Afterburn Orange that adds a fun “pop” to the lineup.
Inside, the Frontier has a new 12.3-inch optional touchscreen, now standard with wireless Android Auto. There's also the addition of a 360-degree camera system for better visibility, and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel as standard. The driver’s seat gets more comfort, too, with two-way power lumbar adjustments on the SV, PRO, and SL trims.
Its price breakdown is:
- S: $33,560
- SV: $35,900
- PRO-X: $39,980
- PRO-4X: $43,280
- SL: $43,320
Which Pickup Has More Powertrain Options: 2025 Ford Ranger
The 2025 Ford Ranger gives you more flexibility when it comes to power. You can stick with the standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which cranks out 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, or upgrade to the available 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 generating 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Both engines mate 10-speed automatic and offer the choice between rear-wheel and four-wheel drive.
The 2025 Nissan Frontier comes with a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 that does a solid 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with a nine-speed automatic and also offers both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive.
Which Pickup Has Greater Towing Capacity: 2025 Ford Ranger
The Ranger leads the way in towing. Properly equipped, it can tow up to 7,500 pounds and handle a max payload of 1,805 pounds, or 1,711 pounds if you go with four-wheel drive.
The Nissan Frontier isn't far behind, with a max towing capacity of 7,150 pounds and a payload limit of 1,610 pounds.
Which Pickup Is More Fuel Efficient: 2025 Ford Ranger
Fuel economy is another win for the Ranger, especially if you go with the base 2.3L turbo-four. It gets up to 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway with rear-wheel drive, or 20/24 with four-wheel drive. Even the more powerful V6 still pulls a respectable 19 mpg city and 23 highway.
The Nissan Frontier doesn’t quite match those numbers. With rear-wheel drive, it’s rated at 18 mpg city and 24 highway. Opt for four-wheel drive, and the numbers dip to 17 and 22, respectively.
Which Midsize Pickup Is the Best Choice for You: 2025 Ford Ranger
If you’re after more engine options, stronger towing muscle, and better MPG numbers, the 2025 Ford Ranger is tough to beat. Stop by and see for yourself. We’ll get you behind the wheel of a truck that’s built to handle whatever you throw at it!