2020 Nissan Frontier vs 2021 Toyota Tacoma

The 2020 Nissan Frontier retained a design reminiscent of its 2005 predecessor, which had aged gracefully. The PRO-4X trim stood out with its tube-style roof rack, unique 16-inch alloy wheels, and distinctive graphics, giving it a rugged appeal. Available in King Cab and Crew Cab styles, the Frontier offered various trim levels and packages, including the Value Truck Package and Utility Package. The interior, though dated, was solidly built, with a nostalgic design that echoed Nissan's mid-2000s aesthetic. Despite the hard plastic materials, the cabin was free from squeaks and rattles, a testament to its long-standing build quality.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma embodied the quintessential truck design with its boxy fender flares, tall hood, and shield-like grille. The Tacoma offered unique styling features across its models, such as the Trail Edition and Nightshade Edition, each with distinct elements. The TRD Pro model boasted off-road enhancements like a model-specific grille and exclusive color options. The Tacoma's body-on-frame construction favored towing and off-road capabilities, though it compromised ride and handling. The interior mirrored the rugged exterior, with a dashboard of chunky plastic elements, and while material quality was suitable for a base model, it felt lacking at higher price points.

The 2020 Nissan Frontier featured a new 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain replaced the older engines and offered improved fuel economy, with RWD models gaining 1 mpg and 4WD models 2 mpg in combined driving. The Frontier's driving dynamics were less impressive, with slow steering response and a wide turning radius. However, the PRO-4X trim's Bilstein off-road shocks provided a comfortable ride over rough terrain, despite allowing some road vibrations to permeate the cabin. The Frontier's maximum tow rating was 6,720 pounds, and it averaged 19.3 mpg during testing.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma offered two engine options: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 159 horsepower and a 3.5-liter V6 with 278 horsepower. The V6, available with both automatic and manual transmissions, featured Toyota's D4S fuel-injection system for better efficiency. The Tacoma's off-road prowess was enhanced in the TRD models, with features like a locking rear differential, upgraded suspension, and all-terrain tires. Despite its off-road capabilities, the Tacoma's on-road performance was traditional, with slow acceleration and poor ride quality. The V6 engine's sound was also less appealing. The Tacoma's maximum towing capacity was 6,800 pounds, with a payload capacity of 1,685 pounds, though these figures varied by configuration.

The 2020 Nissan Frontier offered ample storage, with dual glove compartments and a sizable bin under the center armrest. The PRO-4X trim featured an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, though it lacked Nissan's Zero Gravity design, leading to discomfort on long drives. Rear seat space was tight, typical for midsize pickups, and lacked amenities like air conditioning vents and USB ports. The Frontier's bed, equipped with a spray-in bedliner and Utili-Track system, could handle a 1,020-pound payload, though its depth was limited to 18 inches.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab struggled with interior space, offering the least rear headroom and legroom in its segment. The front seats also lacked headroom, creating a confined feel. Storage options included fold-up rear seats with cubbies and a wireless charging pad, though overall in-cab storage was limited. The Tacoma's bed featured a standard rail system with tie-down cleats and an optional 120-volt outlet. The bed was made from sheet-molded composite, a rust-resistant alternative to steel.

The 2020 Nissan Frontier's technology was basic, with a 5.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that included NissanConnect Apps, satellite radio, and a Rockford Fosgate sound system. However, it lacked modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The voice recognition system worked adequately, but the absence of advanced tech was both refreshing and disappointing.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma offered a more comprehensive tech suite, with a 7-inch touchscreen on the base SR trim and an 8-inch screen on other models. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Higher trims offered a JBL audio system and a Multi-Terrain Monitor for off-road navigation. While functional, the infotainment system lacked standout features, with plain graphics and basic functionality.

The 2020 Nissan Frontier's safety ratings were subpar, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and poor frontal-impact scores. The IIHS rated it "marginal" in small overlap frontal-impact tests, and its headlights received a "poor" rating. Safety features were minimal, with only a reversing camera, antilock brakes, traction control, and stability control.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma fared better, with "Good" IIHS scores in most crash tests and a "Superior" rating for front-crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall rating, with five stars in side crash tests. Standard driver-assist features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control, though it lacked some features offered by competitors like the Ford Ranger.