2025 Nissan Frontier S vs 2026 Ford Maverick XL
On paper, the 2025 Nissan Frontier S wins on 119 more hp, 126 more lb-ft torque, 10.4″ longer. The 2026 Ford Maverick XL has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 310 vs 191 hp, 19 vs 39 MPG.
The Frontier S leads on 119 more hp, 126 more lb-ft torque. The Maverick XL leads on $8,305 less, 20 MPG better. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
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.
| Spec | 2025 Nissan Frontier S | 2026 Ford Maverick XL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,450 | $28,145 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 2.5L I4 hybrid |
| Horsepower | 310 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft | 155 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | electrically variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 17 | 42 |
| Highway MPG | 21 | 35 |
| Combined MPG | 19 | 39 |
| Fuel Tank | 21.0 gal | 13.8 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,660 lbs | 3,674 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 126.0" | 121.1" |
| Length | 210.2" | 199.8" |
| Width | 73.0" | 72.6" |
| Height | 72.4" | 68.8" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | Crew Cab | SuperCrew |
| Bed Length | 5.0 ft | No published data |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Nissan Frontier S and 2026 Ford Maverick XL?
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL starts at $28,145, $8,305 less than the 2025 Nissan Frontier S at $36,450. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $146/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Nissan Frontier S?
The 2025 Nissan Frontier S is the stronger pick when you need the extra 119 hp for towing, hauling, or highway merging; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where 4WD keeps you planted; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Maverick XL?
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $8,305 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Maverick XL covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $1,134/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Nissan Frontier S or 2026 Ford Maverick XL?
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL rates 39 combined MPG, 20 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Nissan Frontier S or 2026 Ford Maverick XL?
The 2025 Nissan Frontier S produces 310 hp, 119 more than the 2026 Ford Maverick XL at 191 hp. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S also leads in torque at 281 lb-ft vs 155 lb-ft. That torque gap matters most when towing or hauling heavy loads. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 Ford Maverick XL uses a 2.5L I4 hybrid. Drivetrains differ too: 4WD on the 2025 Nissan Frontier S, FWD on the 2026 Ford Maverick XL.
Is the 2025 Nissan Frontier S bigger than the 2026 Ford Maverick XL?
The 2025 Nissan Frontier S is 10.4″ longer at 210.2″ vs 199.8″. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S has a 4.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Nissan Frontier S and 2026 Ford Maverick XL have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S comes with 4WD, while the 2026 Ford Maverick XL uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Nissan trims, Nissan Frontier trims, Ford trims, Ford Maverick trims
- 2025 Nissan Frontier S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Frontier and Maverick Stack Up
Two midsize trucks built for work and weekend. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S ($36,450) and 2026 Ford Maverick XL ($28,145) take different approaches to the same job. The $-8,305 gap adds up to $146/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Frontier vs Maverick
The 2025 Nissan Frontier S runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 Ford Maverick XL uses a 2.5L I4 hybrid. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S has 119 more hp (310 vs 191). A gap that large affects towing confidence, highway merging, and how loaded the vehicle can feel before it struggles. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S also delivers 126 more lb-ft of torque (281 vs 155), which matters for trailer stability and pulling heavy loads up grades. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S comes with 4WD; the 2026 Ford Maverick XL uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL saves roughly $1,134/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $5,670.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Nissan Frontier S is 10.4″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S weighs 986 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Nissan Frontier S when you need the extra 119 hp for towing, hauling, or highway merging. Choose the 2026 Ford Maverick XL when you want to keep $8,305 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Maverick XL 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 Nissan or Ford or any dealership.