Towing capacity showdown: nissan frontier vs. honda ridgeline: which hauls more?

In the realm of midsize pickup trucks, the Nissan Frontier and the Honda Ridgeline stand out as formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a blend of rugged capability and everyday practicality, making them ideal for a wide range of drivers. However, each truck has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, which can make choosing between them a challenge. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key aspects of the Nissan Frontier vs. Ridgeline, helping you make an informed decision about which truck is right for you.

Performance and Capability

Engine Options

The Nissan Frontier offers two engine options: a 3.8-liter V6 with 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 152 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. The Honda Ridgeline, on the other hand, comes with a single engine option: a 3.5-liter V6 with 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.

Towing and Payload Capacity

When it comes to towing and payload capacity, the Nissan Frontier has a slight edge over the Honda Ridgeline. The Frontier can tow up to 6,720 pounds and has a payload capacity of up to 1,610 pounds. The Ridgeline, on the other hand, can tow up to 5,000 pounds and has a payload capacity of up to 1,584 pounds.

Off-Road Performance

While both the Nissan Frontier and the Honda Ridgeline offer off-road capabilities, the Frontier is generally considered to be the more rugged choice. It comes with a standard four-wheel drive system and a locking rear differential, while the Ridgeline only offers a part-time four-wheel drive system.

Interior and Features

Cabin Space and Comfort

The Nissan Frontier offers a spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The Honda Ridgeline, on the other hand, has a more refined interior with premium materials and soft-touch surfaces. It also offers more storage space and a larger touchscreen display.

Technology and Features

The Nissan Frontier comes with a standard 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also offers a range of available features, such as a navigation system, Bose premium audio system, and remote start. The Honda Ridgeline comes with a larger 8.8-inch touchscreen display with a more intuitive user interface. It also offers a wider range of standard features, including a rearview camera, dual-zone climate control, and a sunroof.

Safety and Reliability

Safety Features

Both the Nissan Frontier and the Honda Ridgeline offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. The Ridgeline, however, offers a few more standard safety features, such as lane departure warning and forward collision warning.

Reliability

Both the Nissan Frontier and the Honda Ridgeline have a good reputation for reliability. However, the Ridgeline has a slight edge in terms of dependability, according to J.D. Power and Associates.

Price and Value

The Nissan Frontier has a lower starting price than the Honda Ridgeline. However, the Ridgeline offers more standard features and a more refined interior. Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and priorities.

Fuel Economy

The Nissan Frontier has slightly better fuel economy than the Honda Ridgeline. The Frontier gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway, while the Ridgeline gets 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway.

Wrap-Up: The Right Choice for You

The Nissan Frontier and the Honda Ridgeline are both excellent midsize pickup trucks with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Frontier is the more rugged and capable choice, while the Ridgeline offers a more refined interior and a wider range of features. Ultimately, the best truck for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Questions You May Have

Which truck has the more powerful engine?

The Nissan Frontier has a more powerful engine with 310 horsepower compared to the Honda Ridgeline‘s 280 horsepower.

Which truck has a higher towing capacity?

The Nissan Frontier has a higher towing capacity of 6,720 pounds compared to the Honda Ridgeline‘s 5,000 pounds.

Which truck has a more comfortable interior?

The Honda Ridgeline has a more comfortable interior with premium materials and soft-touch surfaces.

Which truck is more reliable?

The Honda Ridgeline has a slight edge in terms of reliability, according to J.D. Power and Associates.

Which truck has a better fuel economy?

The Nissan Frontier has slightly better fuel economy than the Honda Ridgeline.