Why the 2022 Nissan Frontier is the Better Choice Over Toyota Tacoma
When you're in the market for a reliable midsize truck, two names are probably top of mind: the 2022 Nissan Frontier and the Toyota Tacoma. Both models have been longtime favorites in the truck world, each offering a blend of rugged capability and everyday drivability. But if you're trying to decide between these two workhorses, which one comes out on top? In this comparison, we'll break down the pros and cons of both trucks, offering you a thorough analysis that could help steer you toward the right choice for your needs.
Let’s dive into how these trucks measure up and why the 2022 Nissan Frontier could be the perfect fit for your next vehicle.
Performance: Nissan Frontier vs Toyota Tacoma
When it comes to performance, both trucks pack a punch, but they each do it in slightly different ways.
Nissan Frontier: More Power Under the Hood
The 2022 Frontier comes standard with a 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. This gives it a slight edge in the power department compared to the Tacoma. One of the best parts of the Nissan Frontier is its engine is standard across all trims, so no matter which version you pick, you're getting that same level of performance.
On the road, the Frontier feels smooth and composed, whether you're cruising on the highway or tackling some rough terrain. The nine-speed automatic transmission shifts effortlessly and gives the truck a refined driving experience, especially for a midsize pickup. For a lot of folks, this is going to be a big deal. Alex Collantes, a truck enthusiast, says, "I loved how the Frontier felt powerful but never jerky, which is a problem I’ve had with other trucks."
Tacoma: Decent but Dated
On the other hand, the Toyota Tacoma offers two engine options: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.5-liter V6 producing 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. While the V6 engine isn’t bad at all, it doesn’t quite match the Frontier's power output.
Moreover, the Tacoma’s six-speed automatic transmission is known for being less smooth, particularly when shifting between gears. It can sometimes feel a bit unrefined, especially compared to the nine-speed automatic in the Frontier. If you’re someone who prefers a smoother driving experience, this could be a point of frustration.
Key Takeaway on Performance
If you're looking for more power and smoother handling, the Nissan Frontier is the better pick here. While the Tacoma is still a capable truck, it lags behind the Frontier’s impressive V6 engine and better transmission.
Interior & Comfort
When it comes to the interior, both trucks offer a comfortable ride, but there's a notable difference in design quality and tech features.
Nissan Frontier: A Step Up in Cabin Quality
The 2022 Nissan Frontier’s interior has seen a major overhaul compared to previous generations. Nissan has really put in the effort to create a more upscale feel, especially with the Pro-4X trim. Soft-touch materials are used in the right places, and the overall layout is clean and functional.
Standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Higher trims offer a 9-inch display, wireless charging, and even a Fender premium audio system. For a truck, the Frontier really nails it in the tech department.
Seating comfort is another area where the Frontier shines. The Zero Gravity seats, which Nissan is known for, provide excellent long-distance comfort. Alex Collantes also adds, “The seats on the Frontier feel like they’re made for actual human bodies, not just for show.”
Tacoma: Functional but Falling Behind
The Tacoma’s interior is still rugged and functional, but it hasn’t changed much over the years. It feels more utilitarian compared to the Frontier, and some of the materials used feel a bit cheaper. If you prioritize a comfortable and modern cabin, you might find the Tacoma a little underwhelming.
Its tech features are fine, with a 7-inch touchscreen standard on most trims and an 8-inch screen on higher trims, but they don't feel quite as cutting-edge as the Frontier's offerings. Toyota does give you Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but there’s no option for a wireless charger or a premium sound system like what Nissan provides.
Key Takeaway on Interior Comfort
When it comes to cabin comfort and tech, the Frontier is the clear winner. The Nissan Frontier’s interior feels more modern and more thought-out than the Tacoma’s, which has remained largely unchanged in recent years.
Towing and Payload Capabilities
Both trucks are marketed as capable workhorses, but there are some notable differences when it comes to towing and payload capacity.
Nissan Frontier: Strong All-Around
The Frontier offers a maximum towing capacity of 6,720 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,610 pounds. That’s enough muscle for most light to medium-duty jobs, whether you're towing a boat or hauling a load of construction materials.
One major plus is the intuitive trailer sway control system, which helps keep the trailer stable even on rough roads. This feature, combined with the Frontier's solid performance and suspension, makes it a great choice for towing.
Toyota Tacoma: Reliable but a Bit Lacking
The Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 pounds, slightly more than the Frontier, but its payload capacity is lower at 1,155 pounds. This means it’s not quite as versatile when it comes to carrying heavier loads.
While the Tacoma does include trailer sway control, it doesn’t feel as refined in practice as the Frontier’s system. The suspension also doesn’t handle heavy loads as smoothly, which could be a downside if you're regularly hauling heavy equipment.
Key Takeaway on Towing and Payload
While the Tacoma edges out the Frontier slightly in towing capacity, the Frontier's higher payload capacity and better towing experience make it the more well-rounded choice here.
Off-Road Performance
Both trucks have their off-road credentials, but how do they stack up when the pavement ends?
Nissan Frontier: Pro-4X Gets the Job Done
If you're planning to hit the trails, the Pro-4X trim of the Frontier is designed with off-roaders in mind. It comes with Bilstein shocks, skid plates, and an electronic locking rear differential. The Pro-4X handles rocky terrain and steep inclines like a champ, and the ride is remarkably smooth for a truck in this class.
Plus, the off-road features are intuitive. Nissan made sure that you don't have to be a professional driver to use the features effectively. This makes the Frontier a great option for both experienced off-roaders and those who just want to have a little weekend fun.
Tacoma: A Trail King But...
The Toyota Tacoma has long been known as one of the best off-road trucks, and the TRD Off-Road trim continues that tradition. It offers a multi-terrain select system, crawl control, and a locking rear differential, which helps it excel in tougher off-road environments. If you’re looking for a truck to handle extreme off-road conditions, the Tacoma still holds its ground.
However, some drivers report that the Tacoma feels rougher on paved roads than the Frontier. It's almost as if the Tacoma is more focused on off-roading, sometimes sacrificing daily driving comfort.
Key Takeaway on Off-Road Performance
Both trucks are highly capable off-road, but the Frontier Pro-4X offers a better balance between trail performance and road comfort. The Tacoma might be slightly more capable in extreme conditions, but the Frontier wins when it comes to everyday versatility.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a top priority for many buyers, and these trucks offer a solid array of features.
Nissan Frontier: Comprehensive Safety Tech
Nissan has packed the Frontier with a variety of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. These features are standard across many trims, giving you peace of mind even at lower price points.
The 2022 Frontier also received solid crash test ratings, though it has not yet been rated by the IIHS (as of April 2024).
Toyota Tacoma: Tried and True
The Tacoma also comes with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of safety technologies that includes pre-collision warning, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. While these are great features, some buyers feel like Toyota could have gone further in making them standard across all trims.
The Tacoma's crash test ratings have been consistently good, and it performs well in most safety categories.
Key Takeaway on Safety
Both trucks offer robust safety features, but the Frontier stands out for offering a wider range of standard safety tech on more affordable trims. The Tacoma’s safety features are reliable but sometimes feel like they lag behind in terms of standardization.
Price and Value
When it comes to price, both trucks are in the same ballpark, but how do they stack up in terms of overall value?
Nissan Frontier: More for Your Money
The base price for the Frontier is slightly lower than the Tacoma, starting at around $29,000. Given the powerful standard engine and higher-quality interior, the Frontier offers a lot of value for the price, especially if you're not interested in loading up on extra features.
Additionally, the Pro-4X trim offers excellent off-road capability for less than you'd expect, making it a great deal for those who want more performance without breaking the bank.
Toyota Tacoma: A Bit More Expensive
The Toyota Tacoma starts around $30,000, and while it’s not significantly higher, some buyers might feel that the added price doesn't necessarily translate into better features or performance. For what you’re paying, you might find the Frontier gives you more bang for your buck.
Key Takeaway on Price and Value
The Frontier comes out on top in terms of value, offering more power and better tech at a slightly lower starting price than the Tacoma.
Potential Drawbacks of Each Truck
While both trucks have their strengths, they’re not without their flaws.
Frontier: Limited Cab and Bed Options
The Nissan Frontier is a strong contender, but it lacks some of the cab and bed configurations that Tacoma offers. If you need a crew cab with a longer bed, for instance, you’re out of luck with the Frontier, as it only offers two bed lengths across the lineup.
Tacoma: Outdated Design
The Toyota Tacoma, while still popular, is starting to feel dated in some key areas. From its rougher ride quality to the outdated cabin, it could use a refresh. The Tacoma also lacks power compared to the Frontier, and the engine feels underwhelming unless you’re opting for the V6 model.
Conclusion: Nissan Frontier or Toyota Tacoma?
In the battle of 2022 Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma, both trucks have their merits, but for most buyers, the Nissan Frontier is going to offer more value. Its superior power, refined transmission, and modern interior make it the better all-around choice, especially when you consider the lower starting price.
While the Tacoma still has a lot to offer, especially for die-hard off-roaders, its aging design and less comfortable ride mean it’s starting to fall behind the competition.
In the end, both trucks will get the job done, but the Frontier’s blend of comfort, performance, and value gives it the edge in this head-to-head comparison.