2025 Ford Ranger XL vs 2025 Nissan Frontier S

On paper, the 2025 Ford Ranger XL wins on 3 MPG better. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 22 vs 19 MPG.

The short answer

The Ranger XL leads on 3 MPG better. The spec table compares 3 specifications head to head.

N/A
Price Gap
Same
HP Diff
3 MPG
Efficiency Diff
Vehicle A
2025 Ford Ranger XL
Starts at $36,850
VS
Vehicle B
2025 Nissan Frontier S
Starts at $36,450

Key Differences at a Glance

Engine
2.3L I4 Turbo
vs
3.8L V6
Fuel Economy
22 MPG combined
vs
19 MPG combined
Fuel Tank
18.0 gal
vs
21.0 gal

What's Actually Different

These two vehicles differ in 3 specifications.

MSRP
$36,850Ranger XL
$36,450Frontier S
Engine
2.3L I4 TurboRanger XL
3.8L V6Frontier S
Transmission
10-speed shiftable automaticRanger XL
9-speed shiftable automaticFrontier S
City MPG
19Ranger XL
17Frontier S
Highway MPG
26Ranger XL
21Frontier S
Combined MPG
22Ranger XL
19Frontier S
Fuel Tank
18.0 galRanger XL
21.0 galFrontier S
Wheelbase
128.7"Ranger XL
126.0"Frontier S
Length
210.6"Ranger XL
210.2"Frontier S
Width
75.5"Ranger XL
73.0"Frontier S
Height
74.4"Ranger XL
72.4"Frontier S
Roadside Assistance
5yr/60kRanger XL
3yr/36kFrontier S

Full Specification Comparison

Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.

Spec2025 Ford Ranger XL2025 Nissan Frontier S
Pricing
MSRP$36,850$36,450
Powertrain
Engine2.3L I4 Turbo3.8L V6
HorsepowerNo published data310 hp
TorqueNo published data281 lb-ft
Transmission10-speed shiftable automatic9-speed shiftable automatic
Drivetrain4WD4WD
Fuel Economy
City MPG1917
Highway MPG2621
Combined MPG2219
Fuel Tank18.0 gal21.0 gal
Annual Fuel Cost (EPA)$2,000/yrNo published data
Dimensions
Curb WeightNo published data4,660 lbs
Wheelbase128.7"126.0"
Length210.6"210.2"
Width75.5"73.0"
Height74.4"72.4"
Truck Specs
Cab TypeCrew CabCrew Cab
Bed LengthNo published data5.0 ft
Safety
NHTSA Overall4/5 stars4/5 stars
Warranty
Bumper-to-Bumper3yr/36k3yr/36k
Powertrain5yr/60k5yr/60k
Corrosion5yr/unlimited5yr/unlimited
Roadside Assistance5yr/60k3yr/36k

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price difference between the 2025 Ford Ranger XL and 2025 Nissan Frontier S?

The 2025 Nissan Frontier S starts at $36,450, $400 less than the 2025 Ford Ranger XL at $36,850. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.

Who should choose the 2025 Ford Ranger XL?

The 2025 Ford Ranger XL is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $302/year less on fuel.

Who should choose the 2025 Nissan Frontier S?

The 2025 Nissan Frontier S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $400 in your pocket and the 2025 Nissan Frontier S covers your needs.

Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Ford Ranger XL or 2025 Nissan Frontier S?

The 2025 Ford Ranger XL rates 22 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.

Is the 2025 Ford Ranger XL bigger than the 2025 Nissan Frontier S?

The 2025 Ford Ranger XL is 0.4″ longer at 210.6″ vs 210.2″. The 2025 Ford Ranger XL has a 2.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.

How do the warranties compare?

Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.

Explore more: Ford trims, Ford Ranger trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Frontier trims

Official sources

How the Ranger and Frontier Stack Up

Two compact trucks built for work and weekend. The 2025 Ford Ranger XL ($36,850) and 2025 Nissan Frontier S ($36,450) take different approaches to the same job. The $-400 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.

Powertrain: Ranger vs Frontier

The 2025 Ford Ranger XL runs a 2.3L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Nissan Frontier S uses a 3.8L V6. Both use 4WD.

What It Actually Costs to Own

The 2025 Ford Ranger XL saves roughly $302/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,510.

Which One Should You Buy?

Choose the 2025 Ford Ranger XL when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $302/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Nissan Frontier S when you want to keep $400 in your pocket and the 2025 Nissan Frontier S covers your needs.

Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Ford or Nissan or any dealership.

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