2024 Honda Ridgeline vs 2025 Nissan Frontier

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline continued with its second-generation design, which initially resembled a Pilot SUV with a truck bed. However, recent styling updates gave it a more commanding presence. The blunt nose, tall hood, and new tailgate lettering added to its appeal, while the TrailSport’s all-terrain tires provided a rugged touch. Inside, a redesigned center console and a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel enhanced the driving experience, making the Ridgeline feel more like a traditional pickup. The new 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system and available brown leather interior further elevated its appeal.

In contrast, the 2025 Nissan Frontier introduced a vibrant Afterburn Orange color, reminiscent of a quirky, eye-catching classic. The Frontier PRO-4X, designed for off-road adventures, featured black exterior trim and machined-finish wheels. Inside, updates included new orange accents and a larger infotainment screen, giving the cabin a modern feel. The Frontier’s switchgear was praised for its practicality, allowing easy operation even with gloves. Despite some hard plastic surfaces, the Frontier’s interior materials felt robust and well-constructed, contributing to its overall appeal.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and Honda’s i-VTM4 AWD system, which could direct up to 70% of power to a single rear wheel. The Ridgeline’s towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, with a maximum payload of 1,583 pounds. While its off-road capabilities were limited by shallow approach angles and 7.6 inches of ground clearance, the Ridgeline excelled on-road with smooth handling and a quiet cabin. However, the automatic transmission occasionally rolled excessively when parked, requiring careful use of the parking brake.

The 2025 Nissan Frontier boasted a 3.8-liter V6 engine with 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The PRO-4X model included a shift-on-the-fly 4WD system. Despite its V6 not being particularly fuel-efficient, the Frontier exceeded EPA estimates, achieving 18.8 mpg in testing. The Frontier’s towing capacity increased to 7,150 pounds, with a max payload of 1,480 pounds. Off-road, the PRO-4X’s suspension and all-terrain tires provided capability, though the ride was stiff. The Frontier’s steering was heavy and uncommunicative, but it handled mountain roads with surprising agility.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline offered exceptional comfort and practicality. Its interior featured supportive seats, with the TrailSport trim adding leather upholstery and heated elements. The rear seats provided adequate legroom, and the triple-zone climate control enhanced passenger comfort. The Ridgeline’s cargo bed included a weatherproof trunk with 7.3 cubic feet of space, perfect for various uses. The dual-action tailgate facilitated easy loading.

The 2025 Nissan Frontier’s Zero Gravity seats ensured comfort for front passengers, with leather upholstery and heated features. However, the rear seats were less accommodating, with limited thigh support and vertical backrests. The Frontier offered ample storage solutions, including a Utili-Track system in the cargo bed. Despite lacking a step for easy access, the bed featured a spray-in liner and illumination for convenience.

In 2024, the Honda Ridgeline came with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system’s faster processor and improved graphics enhanced usability. The Ridgeline Sport included a seven-speaker stereo, while higher trims offered additional audio upgrades. The 7-inch digital display in the gauge cluster provided clear information.

The 2025 Nissan Frontier introduced a 12.3-inch touchscreen for most trims, with wireless smartphone integration and NissanConnect services. Despite improvements, the system’s interface remained clunky, and voice recognition was subpar. The Frontier’s wireless charger and 10-speaker Fender audio system were highlights, though the truck lacked some advanced towing features.

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline featured Honda Sensing, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. While effective, the system occasionally felt intrusive. The Ridgeline received a five-star NHTSA rating, though its IIHS ratings were less favorable, with an Acceptable score in small overlap frontal-impact tests.

The 2025 Nissan Frontier included Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering comprehensive driver-assistance features. Adaptive cruise control worked smoothly, but lane-departure warnings were frequent. The Frontier earned a four-star NHTSA rating, with concerns in driver protection and rollover resistance. IIHS ratings were mixed, with Poor headlight performance on lower trims.