The 2025 Ford Ranger and Nissan Frontier are two popular midsize trucks with distinctive personalities. Which model has more of what Colorado drivers need? Our side-by-side comparison has the answers you seek.
Key Takeaways
- The Frontier starts at the best price, but the Ranger doesn’t make you spend too much more.
- After last year’s redesign, the Ranger delivers the smoothest ride and best tech lineup!
- Choose the Ranger for more power and stronger capabilities.
- Take off-roading performance to the next level in the Ranger Raptor!
Lowest MSRP: 2025 Nissan Frontier
These trucks are at their most competitive when it comes to price. But the 2025 Frontier (from $32,050*) costs a little less than the 2025 Ranger (starting at $33,080*). Of course, the final cost of your midsize truck will vary according to factors like trim model, optional features, and local fees.
*Price as of 4/15/25.
Everyday Comfort: 2025 Ford Ranger
When Ford redesigned the Ranger just last year, the automaker retooled its suspension for a better balance of comfort and performance. Now this midsize truck is the smoothest operator in the midsize segment, treating you to more ride comfort than the competition. Better still, every Ranger combines a roomy cabin with road-trip-friendly seating support. Whether you’re cruising to a job site in Denver or your favorite off-road trails in the mountains, the Ranger gets you there in maximum style.
Inside the Nissan Frontier, you’ll also enjoy a pretty comfortable ride. This midsize truck smooths over most bumps in the road, giving you nearly as smooth a performance as the Ranger! From there, though, things go downhill. These trucks’ front seats could use both more padding and a few extra adjustments. Not only will you struggle to find the perfect spot behind the wheel, but the seats are a little too flat for long-term comfort.
Impressive Towing & Hauling Capabilities: 2025 Ford Ranger
When it comes to workhorse capabilities, the Ranger takes another healthy lead. Ford’s midsize truck can tow the biggest toys, transporting a boat, camper, or collection of ATVs weighing up to 7,500 pounds. The Ranger can also haul more gear to your tailgating parties, with payload capabilities of up to 1,805 pounds. Better still, this truck is available with more power than the Frontier can muster, helping you power through tough terrain with up to 405 horses!
2025 Ford Ranger Powertrain Options
- Standard 2.3L turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (270 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- Available for XLT, Lariat: 2.7L turbo V6 (315 hp, 400 lb-ft)
- Raptor-exclusive 3.0L turbo V6 (405 hp, 430 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
Properly equipped, the new Frontier can tow almost as much as the Ranger, maxing out at 7,150 pounds. That’s a big improvement on last year’s model, which towed just 6,720 pounds. Payloads reach 1,620 pounds. Depending on what you want to move, the Nissan Frontier may be able to serve your needs. But if you need more muscle, turn to the Ford Ranger!
2025 Nissan Frontier Powertrain Specs
- 3.8L V6 (310 hp, 281 lb-ft of torque)
- Nine-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
Built for Colorado Terrain: 2025 Ford Ranger
The Ranger is the best choice for off-road adventure. Every trim model treats you to Ford’s terrain management system, with different drive modes to improve performance on mountain trails and urban highways alike. Add the FX4 Package to the XLT or Lariat trims to create a trail-ready pickup, complete with rugged suspension upgrades and an electronic-locking rear differential. Ford’s exclusive Trail Control system functions as a type of low-speed cruise control, helping you focus on steering through complex Colorado terrain. And the Ranger Raptor trim model, introduced for 2024, takes your mountain adventures to all new heights with its exclusive, 405-horsepower engine and off-road performance upgrades!
2025 Ford Ranger Raptor Features
- Fox shocks
- Locking front and rear differentials
- All-terrain tires
- Fender flares
- Extra off-road drive modes
- Trail Control
For off-road adventure, the Nissan Frontier isn’t a bad option. Compared to the Ranger, the Frontier doesn’t provide as much power or trail-friendly technology. But it does offer a few off-road trim models that come ready for action: the Pro-X and Pro-4X. The latter, which comes standard with four-wheel drive and Bilstein shocks, is the closest competitor to the Ranger’s Raptor trim. But with only one locking differential and just 310 horses, it’s not quite as thrilling!
2025 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X Features
- Bilstein shocks
- Locking rear differential
- All-terrain tires
- Underbody skid plates
The Best Midsize Truck for You
By now, you’re probably not still asking yourself, “How do I choose between the 2025 Ranger and Frontier?” With its powerful engine options, off-road potential, and smooth-riding comfort, it’s easy to see why Colorado drivers prefer Ford’s midsize truck. Experience the recently updated Ranger in the flesh — visit us at Brighton Ford!