2025 Nissan Frontier S vs 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport
$4,345 less and 30 more hp vs 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $4,345 price gap, 310 vs 280 hp, 19 vs 21 MPG.
The Frontier S leads on $4,345 less, 30 more hp. The Ridgeline Sport leads on 2 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 Honda Ridgeline Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,450 | $40,795 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 310 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 17 | 18 |
| Highway MPG | 21 | 24 |
| Combined MPG | 19 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 21.0 gal | 19.5 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,660 lbs | 4,420 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 126.0" | 125.2" |
| Length | 210.2" | 210.2" |
| Width | 73.0" | 78.6" |
| Height | 72.4" | 70.8" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | Crew Cab | Crew Cab |
| Bed Length | 5.0 ft | No published data |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Nissan Frontier S and 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport?
The 2025 Nissan Frontier S starts at $36,450, $4,345 less than the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport at $40,795. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $76/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 want to keep $4,345 in your pocket and the 2025 Nissan Frontier S covers your needs; you need the extra 30 hp for towing, hauling, or highway merging.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport?
The 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $211/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Nissan Frontier S or 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport?
The 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport rates 21 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Nissan Frontier S or 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport?
The 2025 Nissan Frontier S produces 310 hp, 30 more than the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport at 280 hp. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S also leads in torque at 281 lb-ft vs 262 lb-ft. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport uses a 3.5L V6. Drivetrains differ too: 4WD on the 2025 Nissan Frontier S, AWD on the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport.
Is the 2025 Nissan Frontier S bigger than the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport?
Both measure 210.2″ in overall length. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S has a 0.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Nissan Frontier S and 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S comes with 4WD, while the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport uses AWD. 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, Honda trims, Honda Ridgeline trims
Frontier vs Ridgeline: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Nissan Frontier S and 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport compete directly in the midsize truck segment, where towing capacity, payload, and cab comfort separate the contenders. The $4,345 gap adds up to $76/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Nissan Frontier S runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport uses a 3.5L V6. The 2025 Nissan Frontier S has 30 more hp (310 vs 280), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Drivetrains differ: 4WD on the 2025 Nissan Frontier S, AWD on the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport.
Running Costs: Frontier vs Ridgeline
The 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport saves roughly $211/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,055.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Nissan Frontier S when you want to keep $4,345 in your pocket and the 2025 Nissan Frontier S covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $211/year less on fuel. At $76/month more, the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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 Honda or any dealership.