2025 Nissan Frontier vs 2024 Ford F-150

The 2024 Ford F-150 offered a wide array of configurations and trim levels, with eight different trims and options for various cab styles and bed lengths. It featured six engine options and choices between 4WD or 2WD. The base XL model was basic, while the King Ranch trim provided luxury with heated leather seats and wood trim. Mid trims, however, had some cheap-looking surfaces. The F-150 retained its user-friendly chunky buttons and knobs, making it easy to operate even with gloves. The exterior saw subtle updates, with new wheel options and earth-tone interior colors like "Truffle."

The 2025 Nissan Frontier introduced a new paint color, Afterburn Orange, and was available in multiple trims, including the off-road-ready PRO-4X. It offered King Cab or Crew Cab body styles with standard or long cargo beds. The Frontier PRO-4X test vehicle had a base price of $41,770, with additional packages bringing it to $50,245. Minor styling updates included more black exterior trim and a larger infotainment screen. The cabin featured traditional switchgear, allowing operation without a touchscreen. Despite hard plastic surfaces, the Frontier felt robust and well-constructed.

The 2024 Ford F-150 came standard with a turbocharged 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, but the PowerBoost Hybrid was a standout with 430 horsepower and 570 pound-feet of torque. The 10-speed automatic transmission performed seamlessly. The Tremor variant featured a 5.0-liter V8 with 400 horsepower, while the Raptor R boasted a 5.2-liter supercharged V8 with 720 horsepower. Off-road capabilities were enhanced with features like Trail Turn Assist and Trail Control.

The 2025 Nissan Frontier housed a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The PRO-4X model included a shift-on-the-fly 4WD system. Fuel economy exceeded expectations, averaging 18.8 mpg. Towing capacity increased by 500 pounds, with a max of 7,150 pounds for certain models. The PRO-4X had off-road enhancements like Bilstein shocks and skid plates, though it required slow navigation on rough terrain.

The 2024 Ford F-150 excelled in utility with its Pro Access tailgate, offering multiple opening configurations. It featured lockable bed storage and Pro Power Assist for powering tools. Towing capacity reached 13,500 pounds with specific configurations, while the hybrid engine offered 11,200 pounds. The Raptor R prioritized off-road suspension, reducing towing to 8,700 pounds.

The 2025 Nissan Frontier provided comfort with Zero Gravity seat design and leather seats in the PRO-4X. The rear seat was less accommodating, with limited thigh support and narrow door openings. Storage options included various nooks and a sizable center console bin. The cargo bed featured the Utili-Track system and a spray-in bedliner but lacked easy access features.

The 2024 Ford F-150 included a 12-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It featured a head-up display and Ford Stolen Vehicle Services. Towing aids like Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Smart Hitch tech were available, enhancing towing ease.

The 2025 Nissan Frontier added a 12.3-inch touchscreen for most trims, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system had a clunky interface, and voice recognition was subpar. The Fender audio system provided excellent sound, and a surround-view camera system aided in parking.

The 2024 Ford F-150 came with Ford CoPilot 360, including automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Blue Cruise offered hands-free driving assistance. The F-150 received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA, though some IIHS ratings were less favorable.

The 2025 Nissan Frontier featured Nissan Safety Shield 360, with adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system. It received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with concerns in driver protection and rollover resistance. IIHS ratings were mixed, with some areas needing improvement.