Why the 2022 Nissan Frontier Might Be Better for You vs the 2022 Toyota Tacoma

Choosing the right midsize pickup truck can be overwhelming especially when you’ve got options like the 2022 Nissan Frontier and the 2022 Toyota Tacoma. These two are heavy hitters in the segment and bring different advantages to the table. But which one is right for you?

In this article I’ll dive deep into the specifics comparing performance interior features pricing and more while also giving you Alex Collantes' personal take on both trucks. Let’s break it down!

Design and Exterior

When it comes to design both the 2022 Nissan Frontier and the 2022 Toyota Tacoma offer rugged appearances but they each go about it in their own way.

Nissan Frontier

The Frontier’s redesign in 2022 finally brings it into the modern era. It’s got a bold muscular look with a new grille and headlights that give it a beefier stance. The blocky fenders and chiseled body lines add to its tough character and it definitely catches your eye on the road.

• Bold Design: The Frontier’s new look is a clear upgrade over previous generations. It’s aggressive and modern.
• Pro-4X Package: Opt for this if you want an off-road-ready truck. It adds skid plates a raised suspension and a set of 17-inch off-road tires that’ll tackle rough terrain.
• Smaller size than Tacoma: This could be a pro or con depending on your needs. If you prefer a more compact pickup the Frontier edges out the Tacoma in terms of maneuverability.

Toyota Tacoma

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma hasn’t had a full redesign recently but it still holds strong in the design department. Its appearance leans more toward a classic utilitarian style.

• Aggressive Look: The Tacoma still sports its signature hexagonal grille and sharp lines. The TRD models with their raised suspension and beefy tires are particularly appealing for off-road enthusiasts.
• Functional Yet Familiar: While not as modern as the Frontier’s overhaul the Tacoma remains a recognizable force on the road and retains its tough rugged appearance that many drivers love.

Verdict on Design

If you prefer a more updated look and a slightly smaller footprint the Nissan Frontier might be more appealing. But if you like a more classic look with a larger frame the Tacoma won’t disappoint.

Performance and Powertrain

One of the most crucial factors when choosing a pickup is how it performs. Power torque towing capability—you name it it’s all important.

Nissan Frontier

The 2022 Nissan Frontier has just one engine option—a 3.8-liter V6 that delivers a healthy 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. This is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Nissan kept it simple but powerful and it works.

• 310 Horsepower: More power than the Tacoma’s base model.
• Smooth 9-Speed Transmission: This helps keep the ride smooth and the engine in its power band.
• Good for Towing: With up to 6720 pounds of towing capacity the Frontier is well-suited for handling trailers boats and other loads.

However Alex Collantes points out that “The Frontier’s V6 is strong but there’s no other engine option which limits flexibility. If you want a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder you’re out of luck.”

Toyota Tacoma

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma offers two engine choices: a base 2.7-liter 4-cylinder and an optional 3.5-liter V6. The 4-cylinder isn’t much to write home about with just 159 horsepower but the V6 option puts out 278 horsepower.

• Two Engine Choices: This gives drivers more options based on their needs.
• Manual Transmission Option: The Tacoma still offers a 6-speed manual transmission—something that’s becoming increasingly rare in modern trucks.
• Towing Capacity: While the Tacoma’s towing capacity maxes out at 6800 pounds which is competitive the base 4-cylinder version struggles a bit compared to the Frontier’s V6.

Collantes’ Take: "The Tacoma gives you the option to go with a manual transmission which is something purists will love. But Nissan’s V6 feels stronger and more refined."

Verdict on Performance

If you want more power right out of the gate and don’t mind the lack of engine choices the Nissan Frontier wins here. But if you like having options or prefer a manual transmission the Toyota Tacoma edges ahead.

Interior and Comfort

Next up is the interior where the 2022 Frontier and Tacoma diverge even more.

Nissan Frontier

The 2022 Nissan Frontier has made big strides in improving its interior. Gone are the dated materials and awkward layouts. In their place is a more modern design with updated tech and improved ergonomics.

• Comfortable Seats: The Zero Gravity seats in the Frontier are designed to reduce fatigue during long drives. They’re supportive and widely praised.
• Touchscreen Technology: A standard 8-inch touchscreen with available 9-inch upgrade. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard making for a user-friendly interface.
• Space: While it’s on the smaller side the cab doesn’t feel cramped.

However the Frontier’s smaller overall size compared to the Tacoma does result in less rear legroom which might be a concern for those who frequently carry passengers.

Toyota Tacoma

The 2022 Tacoma has an interior that’s more utilitarian but practical. The materials aren’t as nice as those in the Frontier but it’s sturdy and functional.

• Roomier Cabin: The Tacoma offers more legroom especially in the back seat of the Double Cab configuration.
• 7-Inch Touchscreen: Smaller than the Frontier’s but still functional. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard too.
• Interior Durability: If you’re looking for a no-nonsense truck that can withstand dirt mud and a rugged workday the Tacoma’s tougher interior might be better for you.

Verdict on Interior

For comfort and modern tech the Frontier takes the lead. But if durability and space are your main concerns the Tacoma might be a better fit.

Technology and Safety

Both trucks come loaded with safety and tech features but again there are some key differences that may sway your decision.

Nissan Frontier

• Safety Tech: Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite includes automatic emergency braking lane departure warning blind-spot monitoring and more as standard. This is a big advantage for the Frontier especially in lower trims.
• Infotainment: A standard 8-inch display with available 9-inch upgrade means you’re getting a larger screen than in the Tacoma. There’s also wireless charging and multiple USB ports.

Toyota Tacoma

• Safety Tech: The Tacoma comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense which includes features like adaptive cruise control lane departure alert and a pre-collision system. However certain features like blind-spot monitoring are not standard across all trims.
• Infotainment: The Tacoma comes with a standard 7-inch touchscreen. It’s a bit dated compared to the Frontier’s but it still includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Collantes notes that "Toyota’s tech package is solid but Nissan really stepped it up with Safety Shield 360. I’d feel safer in the Frontier especially with all the driver assistance tech."

Off-Road Capability

Both trucks excel off-road but there are some nuances in their capabilities.

Nissan Frontier

The Pro-4X trim is where the Frontier really shines off-road. It’s equipped with Bilstein shocks skid plates and all-terrain tires making it more than capable of handling rugged trails.

Toyota Tacoma

The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims are legendary in the off-road world. The Tacoma offers more specialized off-road variants than the Frontier and the TRD Pro comes with features like Fox shocks a Multi-Terrain Monitor and Crawl Control.

Collantes’ Take: “While both trucks can handle rough terrain Toyota’s TRD Pro is still the king of off-road. The features they pack into that trim are unmatched.”

Pricing and Value

Both trucks come in at competitive price points but which one offers the better value?

Nissan Frontier

The 2022 Nissan Frontier starts around $29000. Given its modern updates strong V6 and standard safety tech this is a solid price for what you’re getting.

Toyota Tacoma

The 2022 Tacoma has a starting price of about $27000. It’s slightly cheaper but the base engine is much less powerful and you’ll have to pay extra for certain features like blind-spot monitoring.

Verdict on Pricing

If you want a strong engine and more standard tech the Nissan Frontier provides more bang for your buck. But if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option and don’t mind upgrading features the Tacoma can still be a good deal.

Fuel Efficiency

In the age of rising gas prices fuel efficiency is a key consideration for many.

Nissan Frontier

The 2022 Nissan Frontier is rated at 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Not bad for a V6-powered truck.

Toyota Tacoma

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma with the 4-cylinder engine gets 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The V6 option brings those numbers down to 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. So not a big difference overall.

Pros and Cons of Each Truck

2022 Nissan Frontier

Pros:

• Powerful V6 engine comes standard
• Modern tech and safety features
• Comfortable interior with Zero Gravity seats

Cons:

• Less rear seat space
• Only one engine option

2022 Toyota Tacoma

Pros:

• Legendary off-road capability with TRD trims
• Durable interior with more rear legroom
• Manual transmission option

Cons:

• Base engine is underpowered
• Less advanced standard tech

Final Thoughts: Which Truck Is Right for You?

At the end of the day the 2022 Nissan Frontier and the 2022 Toyota Tacoma cater to different types of drivers.

If you value power comfort and modern technology the Nissan Frontier is likely the better choice. But if you prioritize off-road capability durability and enjoy having more engine options the Toyota Tacoma might be the way to go.

Alex Collantes wraps it up by saying “Both trucks are solid but for me the Frontier edges out the Tacoma because it feels more updated and comes with more power and tech out of the box. But if I was hitting the trails every weekend I’d probably pick the Tacoma.”

Ultimately it depends on what matters most to you in a midsize truck!