2026 Nissan Frontier S vs 2025 Ford F-150 XL
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Frontier S starts at $32,680, $4,285 less. F-150 XL leads with 22 MPG. Frontier S makes 310 hp (+20).
| Spec | 2026 Nissan Frontier S | 2025 Ford F-150 XL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,680 Save $4,285 | $36,965 +$4,285 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 3.3L V6 |
| Horsepower | 310 hp +20 hp | 290 hp 20 hp less |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft | 265 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-Spd AT | 10-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 18 2 less | 20 +2 |
| Hwy MPG | 24 2 less | 26 +2 |
| Combined MPG | 20 2 less | 22 +2 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 +2 | 3 2 less |
| Cargo | 27.1 cu ft | 52.8 cu ft |
| Screen | 8.0" | 8.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | No | No |
| Heated Seats | No | No |
| Moonroof | No | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,310 lbs | 4,320 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 126.0" | 122.4" |
| Length | 210.2" | 209.1" |
| Wheels | 16" Steel | 17" Steel |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Safety Shield | Co-Pilot360 |
Frontier S or F-150 XL?
Both are competitive. Frontier S has a lower entry price, F-150 XL leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Nissan Frontier S and 2025 Ford F-150 XL?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Frontier S or F-150 XL?
Should I buy a 2026 Nissan Frontier or Ford F-150?
Which is more reliable, the Nissan Frontier or Ford F-150?
Is the Nissan Frontier bigger than the Ford F-150?
What is the cost of insurance for the Frontier S vs F-150 XL?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Nissan Frontier S?
Who Should Choose the Frontier S
The 2026 Nissan Frontier S appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $32,680, it undercuts the F-150 XL by $4,285.
Nissan ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: Frontier S vs Frontier SV, Frontier S vs Frontier PRO-4X, Frontier SV vs Frontier PRO-4X.
Who Should Choose the F-150 XL
The 2025 Ford F-150 XL is the better fit for buyers who value what the Ford F-150 brings to the table. Superior fuel economy at 22 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage.
Ford's approach to this truck emphasizes raw capability and a wide range of configurations. If that aligns with your priorities, the F-150 XL deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $4,285 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The F-150 XL carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Frontier S makes 20 more hp. The trims are similarly equipped, so the price difference mostly reflects brand and segment positioning. Both are competitive within the truck market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these trucks will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Trucks Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe trucks with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Nissan and Ford often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.