Need a little help choosing between the 2025 Ford Ranger and Nissan Frontier? These midsize trucks go grille-to-grille, competing for your hard-earned dollars with their sporty engine options and winter-friendly creature comforts. Luckily, our buying guide is here to help you select the best model!
Key Takeaways
- The new Frontier starts at a slightly lower price than the Ranger!
- Choose the Ranger for the smoothest ride and most commute-friendly EPA ratings.
- Ford’s midsize truck delivers more power and stronger towing and hauling capabilities!
- Both trucks are up for harsh Michigan winters, offering features like four-wheel drive and heated front seats.
Best Starting Price: 2025 Nissan Frontier
Which one is a smarter buy, the 2025 Ranger or Frontier? These trucks are very competitively priced. But the entry-level Frontier, starting at $32,050*, can save you a little money on a brand new midsize truck compared to the base Ranger, which starts at $33,080*.
*Price as of 4/15/25.
Comfy Commuting: 2025 Ford Ranger
Is your midsize truck is going to commute to job sites in Detroit all week? After a full redesign just last year, this new generation of Rangers delivers best-in-class ride comfort, making them the best choice for dealing with traffic. Better still, the Ranger’s entry-level EcoBoost engine can save you a little at the pump, earning up to 23 mpg combined (21 city/26 highway).
However, the Frontier also delivers a pretty comfy cruise. Thanks to its ability to smooth out most bumps in the road, Nissan’s midsize truck is a pretty close second place. On the other hand, the Frontier’s front seats could use a little extra padding. If you’re like us, you’ll be longing for more support, especially on long drives. Your commute will also cost you a little more, because the Frontier’s best EPA ratings are just 21 mpg combined (19 city/24 highway).
Workhorse Capabilities: 2025 Ford Ranger
Will your midsize truck be doing a lot of towing and hauling? If so, make the Ranger your first choice. Properly equipped, Ford’s midsize truck tows (7,500 pounds max) and hauls (1,805 pounds max) more than its competitor. Better still, you can choose from three different engine options to create the performance you crave!
2025 Ford Ranger Powertrain Options
- Standard 2.3L turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (270 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- Available for XLT, Lariat: 2.7L turbo V6 (315 hp, 400 lb-ft)
- Raptor-exclusive 3.0L turbo V6 (405 hp, 430 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
Meanwhile, the Nissan Frontier is only available with one engine, a sturdy V6. It doesn’t offer as much tow-friendly torque as any of the Ranger’s options. Then again, the Frontier’s 7,150-pound max tow rating isn’t too shabby. Properly equipped, these trucks can haul payloads of up to 1,620 pounds.
2025 Nissan Frontier Powertrain Specs
- 3.8L V6 (310 hp, 281 lb-ft of torque)
- Nine-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
Winter Driving: It’s a Tie!
Winter hits hard here in Owosso, but both the 2025 Ford Ranger and Nissan Frontier are ready to take on frosty conditions. Both trucks are available with four-wheel drive, improving traction on soft surfaces like snow. And these models are also available with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel to help you stay cozy when you’re stuck in traffic. With remote start, you can fire up the engine from inside your warm living room, warming up the truck cabin before you even step foot outside!
Thanks to its excellent capabilities, ride comfort, and cozy amenities, the 2025 Ford Ranger is the best midsize truck for your Midwest lifestyle. But you don’t have to take our word for it — visit us at Lunghamer Ford in Owosso, MI and see for yourself why the Ranger is a segment leader.