2026 Ram 1500 Laramie vs 2026 Nissan Frontier SV
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Frontier SV starts at $36,680, $18,970 less. Same 19 MPG. 1500 Laramie makes 420 hp (+110).
| Spec | 2026 Ram 1500 Laramie | 2026 Nissan Frontier SV |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $55,650 +$18,970 | $36,680 Save $18,970 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.0L Turbo I6 | 3.8L V6 |
| Horsepower | 420 hp +110 hp | 310 hp 110 hp less |
| Torque | 469 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Spd AT | 9-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 17 | 17 |
| Hwy MPG | 24 +2 | 22 2 less |
| Combined MPG | 19 | 19 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 53.9 cu ft | 27.1 cu ft |
| Screen | 12.0" | 8.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Avail. | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 5,250 lbs | 4,560 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 144.6" | 126.0" |
| Length | 228.9" | 210.2" |
| Wheels | 20" Chrome | 17" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Safety Group | Safety Shield |
1500 Laramie or Frontier SV?
Both are competitive. Frontier SV has a lower entry price. Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ram 1500 Laramie and 2026 Nissan Frontier SV?
Which gets better gas mileage, the 1500 Laramie or Frontier SV?
Should I buy a 2026 Ram 1500 or Nissan Frontier?
Which is more reliable, the Ram 1500 or Nissan Frontier?
Is the Ram 1500 bigger than the Nissan Frontier?
What is the cost of insurance for the 1500 Laramie vs Frontier SV?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Ram 1500 Laramie?
Who Should Choose the 1500 Laramie
The 2026 Ram 1500 Laramie appeals to buyers who prioritize what Ram does best: capability and proven toughness. At $55,650, it positions itself as the more powerful option.
Ram ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: 1500 Tradesman vs 1500 Big Horn, 1500 Tradesman vs 1500 Laramie, 1500 Tradesman vs 1500 Limited.
Who Should Choose the Frontier SV
The 2026 Nissan Frontier SV is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price.
Nissan's approach to this truck emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the Frontier SV deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $18,970 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The 1500 Laramie is positioned higher, which is driven by significant differences in standard equipment, powertrain, or brand positioning.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the 1500 Laramie makes 110 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 110 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. A 110 hp difference is noticeable during merging, passing, and hill climbs. 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 Ram and Nissan 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.