2026 Nissan Frontier S vs 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck
$9,450 less and 11 mpg better vs 149 more lb-ft torque and 21.7″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $9,450 price gap, 310 vs 310 hp, 19 vs 8 MPG.
The Frontier S leads on $9,450 less, 11 MPG better. The Silverado 1500 Work Truck leads on 149 more lb-ft torque, 21.7″ longer. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 | 2026 Nissan Frontier S | 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,550 | $46,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 2.7L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 310 hp | 310 hp |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft | 430 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 17 | 17 |
| Highway MPG | 21 | 20 |
| Combined MPG | 19 | 8 |
| Fuel Tank | 21.0 gal | 24.0 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,626 lbs | 4,950 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 126.0" | 147.4" |
| Length | 210.2" | 231.9" |
| Width | 73.0" | 81.2" |
| Height | 72.4" | 75.5" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | Crew Cab | Crew Cab |
| Bed Length | 5.0 ft | 5.8 ft |
| 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 | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Nissan Frontier S and 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck?
The 2026 Nissan Frontier S starts at $36,550, $9,450 less than the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck at $46,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $166/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Frontier S?
The 2026 Nissan Frontier S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $9,450 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Frontier S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $3,039/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck?
The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck is the stronger pick when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo; 149 lb-ft more torque for pulling trailers and heavy loads.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Nissan Frontier S or 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck?
The 2026 Nissan Frontier S rates 19 combined MPG, 11 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Nissan Frontier S or 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck?
Both produce 310 hp. The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck also leads in torque at 430 lb-ft vs 281 lb-ft. That torque gap matters most when towing or hauling heavy loads. The 2026 Nissan Frontier S runs a 3.8L V6; the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck uses a 2.7L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Nissan Frontier S bigger than the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck?
The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck is 21.7″ longer at 231.9″ vs 210.2″. The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck has a 21.4″ 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: Nissan trims, Nissan Frontier trims, Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 trims
The Frontier–Silverado 1500 Decision
Truck buyers cross-shopping the Frontier and Silverado 1500 are comparing more than price. Bed size, powertrain, and tow rating all factor in. The $9,450 gap adds up to $166/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Nissan Frontier S runs a 3.8L V6; the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck uses a 2.7L I4 Turbo. Both produce 310 hp. The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck also delivers 149 more lb-ft of torque (430 vs 281), which matters for trailer stability and pulling heavy loads up grades. Both use 4WD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Nissan Frontier S saves roughly $3,039/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $15,195. The 2026 Nissan Frontier S wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Living With the Frontier vs the Silverado 1500
The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck is 21.7″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck has a 21.4″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck weighs 324 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Nissan Frontier S when you want to keep $9,450 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Frontier S covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo. At $166/month more, the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck 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 Chevrolet or any dealership.