Nissan frontier pro 4x vs. toyota tacoma trd pro: which is the king of the trails?
What To Know
- The Tacoma’s crawl control is a significant advantage for navigating extremely challenging terrain, as it allows the vehicle to maintain a steady pace without driver input.
- The Tacoma TRD Pro has a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a premium JBL audio system.
- However, if you demand the most advanced off-road technology and a luxurious interior, the Tacoma TRD Pro is worth the extra investment.
When it comes to off-road prowess, two vehicles stand head and shoulders above the rest: the Nissan Frontier Pro-4X and the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro. Both are legendary for their rugged capabilities and have earned the respect of adventure enthusiasts worldwide. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit these two titans against each other to determine which one reigns supreme in the realm of off-road dominance.
Powertrain and Performance
Engine and Transmission
The Frontier Pro-4X boasts a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Tacoma TRD Pro, on the other hand, features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.
While the Frontier has a slight edge in power, the Tacoma’s lower torque output may be an advantage in low-speed off-road situations.
4WD Systems
Both vehicles come standard with four-wheel drive. The Frontier Pro-4X features a shift-on-the-fly system with a 2WD/4WD/4LO selector. The Tacoma TRD Pro has a more advanced four-wheel drive system with an electronically controlled locking rear differential and crawl control.
The Tacoma’s crawl control is a significant advantage for navigating extremely challenging terrain, as it allows the vehicle to maintain a steady pace without driver input.
Off-Road Features
Suspension and Ground Clearance
The Frontier Pro-4X has a Bilstein off-road suspension with a 9.8-inch ground clearance. The Tacoma TRD Pro has a Fox off-road suspension with a 10.6-inch ground clearance.
The Tacoma TRD Pro‘s higher ground clearance gives it an edge in tackling steep obstacles and uneven terrain.
Tires and Wheels
The Frontier Pro-4X comes with 17-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. The Tacoma TRD Pro has 16-inch wheels with Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires.
While both vehicles have capable tires, the Tacoma’s Wildpeak tires are known for their exceptional grip on loose surfaces.
Off-Road Accessories
The Frontier Pro-4X comes with a variety of off-road accessories, including skid plates, a rear differential locker, and hill descent control. The Tacoma TRD Pro adds a front skid plate, LED fog lights, and a multi-terrain select system.
The Tacoma TRD Pro‘s multi-terrain select system allows the driver to choose between different driving modes optimized for various off-road conditions.
Interior and Technology
Cabin Space and Comfort
The Frontier Pro-4X has a spacious cabin with comfortable seats and ample legroom. The Tacoma TRD Pro has a similar cabin size, but the seats are slightly more supportive.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Frontier Pro-4X comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Tacoma TRD Pro has a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a premium JBL audio system.
While the Frontier has a larger screen, the Tacoma’s premium audio system provides a better audio experience.
Safety and Reliability
Safety Features
Both vehicles come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, traction control, and stability control. The Tacoma TRD Pro adds lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
Reliability
The Frontier Pro-4X and Tacoma TRD Pro have both earned strong reliability ratings from J.D. Power. However, the Tacoma has a slight edge in long-term reliability.
Pricing and Value
The Nissan Frontier Pro-4X starts at $37,540. The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro starts at $46,250. While the Tacoma is more expensive, it offers a more advanced off-road system and a more refined interior.
The Verdict: Nissan Frontier Pro-4X vs. Tacoma TRD Pro
Both the Nissan Frontier Pro-4X and the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro are exceptional off-road vehicles. However, each has its own strengths and weaknesses.
If you prioritize raw power and a lower price point, the Frontier Pro-4X is an excellent choice. However, if you demand the most advanced off-road technology and a luxurious interior, the Tacoma TRD Pro is worth the extra investment.
Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
A: The Nissan Frontier Pro-4X has a higher towing capacity of 6,720 pounds compared to the Tacoma TRD Pro’s 6,400 pounds.
Q: Which vehicle gets better fuel economy?
A: The Tacoma TRD Pro gets slightly better fuel economy than the Frontier Pro-4X, with an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city/23 mpg highway compared to 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway.
Q: Which vehicle has a larger fuel tank?
A: The Tacoma TRD Pro has a larger fuel tank with a capacity of 21.1 gallons compared to the Frontier Pro-4X’s 18.5-gallon tank.