2026 Nissan Frontier SV vs 2025 Ford F-150 XLT
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Frontier SV starts at $36,680, $7,040 less. F-150 XLT leads with 22 MPG. F-150 XLT makes 325 hp (+15).
| Spec | 2026 Nissan Frontier SV | 2025 Ford F-150 XLT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,680 Save $7,040 | $43,720 +$7,040 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 2.7L Turbo V6 |
| Horsepower | 310 hp 15 hp less | 325 hp +15 hp |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-Spd AT | 10-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | RWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 17 3 less | 20 +3 |
| Hwy MPG | 22 4 less | 26 +4 |
| Combined MPG | 19 3 less | 22 +3 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 27.1 cu ft | 52.8 cu ft |
| Screen | 8.0" | 12.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Avail. |
| Moonroof | No | Avail. |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,560 lbs | 4,410 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 126.0" | 145.4" |
| Length | 210.2" | 231.7" |
| Wheels | 17" Alloy | 18" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Safety Shield | Co-Pilot360 |
Frontier SV or F-150 XLT?
Both are competitive. Frontier SV has a lower entry price, F-150 XLT leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Nissan Frontier SV and 2025 Ford F-150 XLT?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Frontier SV or F-150 XLT?
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 SV vs F-150 XLT?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Nissan Frontier SV?
Who Should Choose the Frontier SV
The 2026 Nissan Frontier SV appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $36,680, it undercuts the F-150 XLT by $7,040.
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 XLT
The 2025 Ford F-150 XLT 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. With 325 hp, it also delivers stronger performance.
Ford's approach to this truck emphasizes raw capability and a wide range of configurations. If that aligns with your priorities, the F-150 XLT deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $7,040 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The F-150 XLT carries a premium, which is driven by significant differences in standard equipment, powertrain, or brand positioning.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the F-150 XLT makes 15 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 15 more horsepower, larger wheels also contribute. 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.