2026 Nissan Frontier S vs 2025 Ford F-150 XL
$5,915 less vs 119 more lb-ft torque and 17.9″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $5,915 price gap, 310 vs 325 hp, 19 vs 20 MPG.
The Frontier S leads on $5,915 less. The F-150 XL leads on 119 more lb-ft torque, 17.9″ longer. 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 | 2026 Nissan Frontier S | 2025 Ford F-150 XL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,550 | $42,465 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 2.7L V6 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 310 hp | 325 hp |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 17 | 18 |
| Highway MPG | 21 | 23 |
| Combined MPG | 19 | 20 |
| Fuel Tank | 21.0 gal | 36.0 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,626 lbs | 4,679 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 126.0" | 141.5" |
| Length | 210.2" | 228.1" |
| Width | 73.0" | 79.9" |
| Height | 72.4" | 76.7" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | Crew Cab | Regular Cab |
| Bed Length | 5.0 ft | 8.0 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 | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Nissan Frontier S and 2025 Ford F-150 XL?
The 2026 Nissan Frontier S starts at $36,550, $5,915 less than the 2025 Ford F-150 XL at $42,465. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $104/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 $5,915 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Frontier S covers your needs; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford F-150 XL?
The 2025 Ford F-150 XL is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $111/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo; 119 lb-ft more torque for pulling trailers and heavy loads.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Nissan Frontier S or 2025 Ford F-150 XL?
The 2025 Ford F-150 XL rates 20 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Nissan Frontier S or 2025 Ford F-150 XL?
The 2025 Ford F-150 XL produces 325 hp, 15 more than the 2026 Nissan Frontier S at 310 hp. The 2025 Ford F-150 XL also leads in torque at 400 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 Ford F-150 XL uses a 2.7L V6 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Nissan Frontier S bigger than the 2025 Ford F-150 XL?
The 2025 Ford F-150 XL is 17.9″ longer at 228.1″ vs 210.2″. The 2025 Ford F-150 XL has a 15.5″ 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, Ford trims, Ford F-150 trims
- 2026 Nissan Frontier S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Ford F-150 XL Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Frontier and F-150 Stack Up
Two midsize trucks built for work and weekend. The 2026 Nissan Frontier S ($36,550) and 2025 Ford F-150 XL ($42,465) take different approaches to the same job. The $5,915 gap adds up to $104/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 F-150
The 2026 Nissan Frontier S runs a 3.8L V6; the 2025 Ford F-150 XL uses a 2.7L V6 Turbo. The 15 hp difference (325 vs 310) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Ford F-150 XL also delivers 119 more lb-ft of torque (400 vs 281), which matters for trailer stability and pulling heavy loads up grades. Both use 4WD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Ford F-150 XL saves roughly $111/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $555.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Ford F-150 XL is 17.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Ford F-150 XL has a 15.5″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Nissan Frontier S when you want to keep $5,915 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Frontier S covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Ford F-150 XL when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $111/year less on fuel. At $104/month more, the 2025 Ford F-150 XL 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 Ford or any dealership.