I bought the Pro4X in Boulder Gray. Super comfortable on long trips and I think it looks fantastic. I also enjoy not having the same truck as half my city.
I bought the same one in California (high desert) and no one other than me has this truck. Toyota everywhere truck. It drives good and I have taken it to big bear and actually had to get a Tacoma and Colorado out of a ditch!!
I love the looks of the Frontier; it looks like a truck with some edge softening and details to help make it look current. And, I much prefer the simpler dash controls vs. the trend towards big screens.
Same brother. I love the simplicity of my work truck (with no screens) in a '15. Fewer distractions and less stuff to break over time. Any specific additions that might be needed, such as a backup camera, can still be purchased in the aftermarket. Also, my dad has owned a couple mid-range Frontiers, and they always seem to serve him well. Definitely wouldn't mind something like that if I ever wanted to downsize.
This is exactly what nissan offers on both their frontier/titan but the consumers want bigger screens and calling them outdated which in reality they making a product that would last longer with fewer thing to break but the consumers 🤦♂️🤦♂️
You should have switched back and forth between the vehicles so you both can compare the trucks to each other, not one person's opinion against the other person's. On a side note, I hope they make the next tacoma with more room inside so it's comfortable like the 4runner.
They both have driven, tested, and reviewed the Tacoma. And I believe that would be the same for the Nissan. They’ve tested both, but in separate videos.
Nissan Frontier Crawl ratio 60:1 fully boxed frame Dana 44 locking rear (pro 4X) Dana front diff, Spicer transfer case, powerful VQ engine, rear disc brakes, bullet proof made in the good ol' USA. Tacoma=33:1 crawl ratio, C frame (with on going frame recalls due to corrosion) rear drum brakes, now made in Mexico, reliability declining and Toyota tax.
Im between the navara and hilux, have driven my dads navara and uncles hilux, hilux is faster and tows better but nav is more comfortable and cheaper so because of price im probably going nav
I have the 2022 Pro-4x and have done some pretty rough stuff with it, no modifications. Totally factory. It does all the stuff I need it to and I love it. Both are great trucks, it came down mostly to what the Toyota dealerships were demanding. A TRD Pro was going to be $63,000+ whereas the Pro-4x was MSRP + $4000 dealer markup. Both highway robbery, but Nissan was far more manageable price wise. I'm totally happy. I've taken the sidesteps off and that resolved a lot of the side to side clearance issues. Might get a lift when the warranty is up. Other than that, I'm in control of the truck, I don't bother with hill descent control or anything like that. It's the perfect camping, hunting, forest road truck.
And the Toyota is the same price whether made in America or with cheap Mexican labor. I called Toyota and they said any truck on any Toyota lot can come from multiple countries, and you just have to run the VIN to know.
Great video! When I was shopping for a 4x4 truck the Tacoma was my first choice without researching anything simply because Toyota just dominates the marketing aspect of this category. However upon doing actual research (reading articles, watching videos, and talking to owners of each truck) I finally decided on the Nissan Frontier Pro-4x. You just simply get more bang for your buck with the Frontier - it's just as capable and according to many, more reliable than a Tacoma. When I would ask a Tacoma owner why they chose that truck the most common answer I would get is "because it's a Toyota!" But they couldn't tell you anything about the engine, transmission, performance, etc. It seemed like most people just buy into Toyota's "legendary reliability" without researching the Tacoma's terrible transmission history. I was able to purchase a 2020 Nissan Frontier Pro-4x with only 2,500 miles that was more affordable than a 2016 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road with 40,000 miles lol. It seems like Tacoma's are overpriced based more off of marketing hype rather than actual performance. They are both great trucks but the Frontier has a better engine, transmission, and more comfortable seats.
It's hard to talk about reliability of the new gen Frontier, because the engine and tranny are just few years old, and the rest is virtually new (like electronics and stuff). It does not share much with the "older" Frontiers, which indeed proved quite reliable (2010 and over, older had coolant/tranny failures)
Terrible transmissions? Lmao you don’t know tacomas. Yes they shift gears a lot on hills which is annoying, but they are reliable just annoying. The frontier is too new to know if they are more reliable. Good luck on the Nissan
@@eduardomendoza2989 I spoke to people who worked in the automotive industry and even have a friend who's job was to test reliability on many vehicles including Tacomas and Frontiers. According to his personal experience the Frontiers outlasted the Tacomas every time, and the weak point of the Tacoma is that out-dated transmission. True, it might be too early to make the assumptions on the new Frontier but there haven't been any major issues so far. I hope the refresh on the Tacoma (and 4Runner) will feature an updated transmission.
I do not understand why Pro4x reviewers never remove the side steps, as they are designed to do when offroading, but still complain about it. If you're doing a comparison video, you need to match the trucks evenly in any area you can. Also, unless you go off road everyday, it's actually on road performance that matters most in any vehicle that will be daily driven. I've owned a current gen Tacoma TRD Offroad and a previous gen Frontier Pro4x and there is simply no question that the Frontier was the far better driving truck. The Tacoma was so annoying to drive that I sold it in under a year. With its terrible driving position, gear hunting transmission, bad chassis vibrations, weak engine, etc I just hated driving that truck on the road and that's what really matters in an adventure vehicle that is also your daily driver. I'll probably get another Pro4x, eventually.
You are right....the steps are screwed in. I have a Tundra with predator side steps and they are welded. I like the Nissan design of screws. I tried explaining this to some guy on another video and he told me Nissan steps are not removable. In this video Ryan even mentioned it with text.
I just got the pro4x last Oct. I love it. I like most people drive it on the street 80-90% of the time. But i have taken it off road, and it performed just fine for a stock truck. The difference in price was the main thing that made me buy a pro4x instead of the TRD pro. Was almost 10 grand difference. I am sure the dealerships were just trying to take advantage. . I could spend the difference in aftermarket parts, and out perform the TRDpro probably. . ALSO, the pro4x has a fresh look, while the TRD just looks like the same old bar of soap. KNow what i mean.
hill descent control in my frontier works flawlessly on hills like that. did you have your foot on the brake or accelerator? it’s only active if you aren’t touching either pedal. your brake lights weren’t illuminated in the rear shot of the truck after you flipped the switch, so I don’t think the system was activated properly. the brakes lights will illuminate automatically if the system is active.
Most driving is done on road, not off, so for me personally the on road comfort would trump any off road bells and whistles. I haven't driven either but the on road comfort would win the comparison. If you really need off road capabilities, and are not buying a vehicle because it looks cool, or for resale value, which is also a factor, then the TRD makes sense. For 90% of real world driving the Frontier is probably a better choice. I've also never experienced first hand the Tacoma's transmission hunting but have driven next to one that was doing so on a slight grade and that alone would make me crazy after spending $50.000 on a new truck with yesteryear's transmission.
I love everything about the Frontier - some may say it’s a dated look and feel, but with everything else getting uglier (the new Tundra, for example), and digital dashboards and iPad looking screens, the analog gauges and switch gear in the Frontier are more preferable. The upcoming redesigned Colorado and Tacomas will likely not be available with a V6. This is it folks.
This is exactly what nissan offers on both the titan/frontier but the consumers are calling them outdated but in reality nissan is giving you a product that is less likely to break and would last you longer but the consumers are just 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️ and is true a year later and both taco/Colorado down graded on their engine so yeah this is the truck to get or the ranger if you want to have problems
Back from a cross-country trip from Niagara Falls to California. My 2022 Pro4X was freaking awesome. Very comfortable during long days of driving, 4X4 driving down to the mighty Yuba did all that was asked.
Very fun video. Being a Toyota guy, it’s fun to see the Taco doing well, but that Nissan is really impressive. Seems like it’s the better vehicle for most folks in terms of daily driving, and it clearly still does great on the trails. I’d be curious to pit it against the Off Road since they have the more similar suspension, but still. Plus, always fun when the people reviewing the vehicles are having as much fun as y’all are. Clearly I need to road trip and go test out that track for myself! Keep up the fantastic work. Always appreciate the level of detail you put in your videos
Tacoma has telescoping steering wheel but I can understand why you would think it wouldn’t, you gotta yank it pretty hard relative to other cars that i’ve tried. I didn’t know I had it until maybe 2 or 3 months into ownership of my 2021.
I like this guy but he misses some things. In another he complained about heavy steering.. not knowing it had electrical assist with 3 different settings.
it has kind of a lever under the wheel which lets u easily adjust the wheels position I've never had to yank it so hopefully ur not breaking ur tacoma :)
I love the look and off road capabilities of the Tacoma , only drove Tacomas from the late 80s and mid 90s ( smaller and less technology ) But i have a 2012 Frontier and a Pathfinder and i highly recommend Nissan trucks!
@@ftheturks100 Agree. I'm on my third Frontier. The first two were extremely dependable. (I honestly can't recall a single time either had to go in the shop. ) And now I'm loving my '21. The only reason I sold the first two was because #1 The kids got too big to ride in the jump seats and #2 I needed to buy a bunch of lumber and out of three vehicles, it was the oldest. LOL
@@chrisnguyen4611 Had my Frontier Pro 4x since 2012 (its a 2010). As for reliability, I havent been too hard on it and have had to spend a large sum on the AC, and the cat convertor. Other then that normal stuff like tires and stuff. The only issue is I have had 4 nissans in my 50 years and every... single... one... has had electrical issues. Nothing major just oddities like batteries dying, sensors going out, etc. Overall still been a great truck and I plan to get another one in the next 3-4 years.
The frontier may be my next truck. I have a 1998 Tacoma 4wd that I bought new back in 98. I use for gnarly trails. Its totally set up with driveline, suspension, armor and the winch in the bumper for the unknown. Those two models your showing are good for exactly what you’re doing but not much more without mods. I have a 2018 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition that can handle anything you’re showing on this video but it has crappy ground clearance so can do really bad ruts.
These videos make me want to make a month long trip out to Washington just to drive all these routes. Love the comparison - hard to go wrong with either truck.
Having sat in and driven both, I went with the Frontier. Toyota really needs to work on driver position/ergonomics. It just doesn't feel good, even after short drives.
it's all about personal opinion, I haven't sat in the Frontier, but the Tacoma's position is great for me, i'd like more telescoping, but other than that it's very good. Opposite to the older guy in this video, I prefer my knees above my hip, i don't like sitting on an office chair in any vehicle.
@@gwot I agree on the per person but Tacoma’s aren’t for tall people. The roofline is too low and cuts off my field of vision. Basically everything is too low for a tall individual
The Frontier's running boards steps come off, takes literally 2 minutes, 4 bolts per step, do it while you're airing down the tires and then you have really beefy rock sliders on the side. instead of steps that scrape. I just throw them back on after I get done wheeling because I like how they look and my 5'2" GF needs them to get in the dang truck (Even more so once I get my 3" Nisstec lift on there.)
I have a 22 Frontier with the factory running boards and I would 100% recommend NOT using them as "rock sliders" the running boards attach to the body of the truck and not the frame. I took mine off and will be purchasing actual Rock sliders for this very reason. Just an fyi.
I have that green pro4x, LOVE IT!!! The TRD pro was actually the truck I was trying to buy at first. BUT the stealership markups put it out of my range. In the spec i wanted was starting at above 50k plus tax tag etc etc. I got the pro4x in a higher spec trim then I wanted out the door for less then 50k. I am not a hardcore overlander. I just do light overlanding. I mainly just haul my mountain bike to the parks and help friend/family move bigger things. Was a no brainer for me to get the frontier. Also, Nisstec makes great lift kits for the frontier which will make up for some of the minor deficits to the TRD. May even in fact out perfrom the TRD with the kits installed, and money wise you'd be about the same level. I like both trucks, BUT I am definitely a Frontier fanboy now after owning one.
Tomorrow July 4th will be 3 years of ownership for me of my TRD Tacoma with almost 55k miles. I have totally gotten used to how the transmission works in the thing but I will say and it does also mention this in the owner's manual that if the truck is upshifting too much for example you're driving up a mountain pass and it's constantly shifting between 4th gear and 5th gear you simply put it over into s-mode and have it in 4th gear and it will not up shift anymore.
If you added the nismo branded upgraded billstien shocks/ leveling kit bringing the cost closer to the Toyota's price point but still a little bit less you might have gotten a surprisingly different review I'd like to see a review like that
I still see the Tacoma TRD Pro with an MSRP of $10-12 more than the Nissan Frontier Pro-4x. And the Taco doesn’t come with skid plates, and they charge a lot if you want an automatic transmission.
It’s July 3rd and we are getting steady rain here in north central WA state. This is unheard of for this time of the year. Our mountains are still green. Normally they are golden brown except for the numerous pine trees
I believe Nissan did an excellent job all-around for the Frontier pkg. No disrepect to the Tacoma at all, as I am a Yota guy. The Frontier will make you look twice no doubt!
I appreciate this comparison video, as I’m currently looking at both. I’m an avid off-roader and owner of a JLU Rubicon that has been heavily modified. These days I’m doing more highway driving, and the Jeep is way overbuilt for any kind of efficiency. While these two trucks aren’t an apples to apples comparison, I feel the Frontier has the edge in everyday drivability with occasional off-roading. I also like the interior and overall finish of the P4X better. Plus with the price difference I can build a dedicated rig to beat on the rocks. Good video, but the same driver in both vehicles would have been a better comparison. I could definitely see a difference in skill levels.
BY for one of the best true comparison videos I have ever seen. you guys nailed it 100% for me. I do not want the same truck as everyone else. All the men in my family seem to have Tacoma's and I feel compelled to go in the other direction. i ended up with a used Tundra which really is almost "too much truck" for me. I really really like the Pro 4x. and you guys have done a great job convincing me that it is ok to "go the other way" lol.
I bought a new Tacoma 2 years ago and ended up selling it back... the transmissions are very bad, sadly I didn't notice during the test drive :(. I installed a shift sense pro on it, but at that point it just felt like putting a bandaid on a brand new truck
Thanks for the comparison. Next time, I will prefer that both of you would test each truck, even that it will limit the time and the distance. And after that, each one share their experience and preferences.
My wife and I have a great comparative advantage for Toyota’s crawl control system: I have an 04 Land Cruiser with none and she has a 13 LX570 with the system. My bare bones rig is simple and strong and has no trouble with anything reasonable, just needs some patience and care with ascents and descents. The Lexus with crawl control is surprisingly intuitive but really does all the work for you and I’m honestly not a big fan of it, I’d much rather run my old LC where I have control. But hers has a fridge in the center console to keep a couple beers cold to celebrate a nice run so I think it all evens out in the end!
My 2018 Tacoma has tilt and telescope on the steering wheel. Did they lose that feature or is the video just wrong? It's not a lot of telescope, but it's there.
They both did great. Toyota has more tech, for sure. I'm happy and surprised that just about all the new 4wd stuff from all companies is great! I'm impressed with just about all of it , really. I get tired of seeing videos of nothing but Jeep Wranglers on trails. Great to see stuff that's very capable and stuff that probably rides a lot better than a Wrangler too.
@@ranran2218 Brands sort of don't exist anymore. 2.4 Cherokee Trailhawk engine : Fiat 3.2 engine : Chrysler 2.0 engine : alpha Romeo ... So who makes the Cherokee Trailhawk? Lol... The transmission is made by ZF. Same company makes the Porsche transmissions. It's also used in the range Rover Evoq. Is it a range Rover ? Is it a German car , a European car or is it an American car? Wait a minute the 2.4 engine in the Jeep Patriot was a world engine used in several different manufacturers and was made mostly by Hyundai. So are Jeeps Korean cars ? What's a Jeep ? The speakers in my last Jeep were made by Mitsubishi. Is it a Japanese car ? It is VERY hard to map a brand to reliability. It's easier to map a particular vehicle to reliability.
I drove both and bought a pro4X. Its more comfortable to drive and more powerful. More bang for the buck. The comparable tacoma for the same cash, did not have a locking diff, navigation sunroof etc. Etc. I lifted my frontier 2", added ditch lights from diode, method wheels and K02's, prinsu roof rack is coming and a bed rack. It looks badass. Rides really well and decent mileage. With these mods, 10L per 100kms
Back in June I was heavily looking into these 2 trucks. I ended up with the Tacoma, but both trucks are just amazing. I couldn't beat the price for my '22 Tacoma though.
I have seen this video twice and it is clear to me the Tacoma TRD Pro was way better off-road. I am 67 and have no problem getting into or out of my 2021 TRD OR. Also no problem with the seating position. The Frontier is cool but Tacoma is still King! It will also outlast and hold it’s value better.
Only downside I can see if the frontier compared to the Ranger or Colorado (other than the parking pawl issue) is the lack of rear seat space for a child seat. The Tacoma, imo really needs some updates. Better mpg, power, and automatic transmission. However, still having a 6spd option is really great, but unfortunately, unavailable on the base model (which is what I would buy and do any upgrades myself).
Tacoma= c channel frame, rear drum brakes, no power, 33:1 crawl ratio, made in Mexico with Toyota tax. Frontier= fully boxed Titan frame , real power, made in the USA, 60:1 crawl ratio, Dana 44 rear locking diff, Dana front diff and spicer transfer case.
Well yeah it has Fox shocks, it's basically mid travel set up from the factory by toyota. The nissan here should of been tested against a normal tacoma trd offroad with the same bilstein shocks as the frontier here. I'm a tech, just saying.
@ralatorre9 No, you're incorrect. As I said. The TRD pro suspension is basically mid travel set up. Just add a good aftermarket upper control arm it will give you even more suspension travel. That's why the Taquito here is better than your frontier. Besides, I've modded and been around Tacomas before your internet made them a cringey fad. Go away, man.
My father got his Frontier. My god I will say I am impressed. The interior is super clean. The seats are cloth but are very comfortable. Something I really like is the space it has, definitely better than the Tacoma. Another thing I really enjoy is the heaviness of the steering wheel. Idk why but it just feels good.
After seeing reviews for the new 2023 Colorado and Canyon, Toyota better have something phenomenal in mind for the 2024 all new redesign. Available 310hp and 430ft/lb with towing capacity up to 7000lbs. With front and rear lockers and an 8 spd transmission… Better ground clearance, more interior space, more technology.
I've owned chryers ford's gm. Never again. I'd go with the Toyota because it comes in a manual and it's more truck than what I need. The Nissan is nice but no manual option.
I currently own a 2001 Toyota Tacoma SR5 access cab 4x4 TRD with 201,000 miles. While it was a rust bucket(recently had spot welding done on the subframe and rustproof undercoating), the motor which is a V6 and automatic transmission has had no major issues. I do agree with some of the folks saying drum brakes on a $45k plus truck. (Yes. I think heard Toyota say it’s proven old school and easy to work on). Ok. Then maybe price it based on old school pricing. Lol. One other observation is again with a $45k plus truck, still using solid rear differential with no way of replacing the rear differential cover if needed when they start rusting out and leak. Then what? Try to spot weld the leaks on a differential. Or the hunt for a spare at a junkyard. 2001 Taco does not have the latest safety features like collision warning, don’t run over pedestrians feature, lane departure, etc, etc. And it only has 4l,4h with a rear locker. Just common sense driving and realistic expectations of using the 4 wheel drive system is why I love the truck so much.
I had a 2001 just like yours. I know it would run forever but I needed more space for an additional baby occupant. 2021 doublecab TRD Offroad is perfect. Not too big like the tundra, I can go pretty much every where with this truck with all the safety of today's standards. I feel totally safe in my truck
@mysteriousoklahoma777 it is tho. The 3.5 in the taco is high revving engine and lacks power. The tyranny is bad and as you add weight it can't find the right gear. It's a horrible combination and severely lacking. I def wanna see how Nissan's 3.8l direct injection holds up in terms of reliability long term but I've looked and can't find anything bad about it. There are so many taco videos where peoppe add larger tires and some camping gear or any load (bumpers or w.e ) and the transmission can't find gears and will keep switching on a long drive, that is annoying. Peoppe routinely swap rear end ratio to accommodate. Trucks aren't suppose to have to rev out to 6k for power curve haha, the Toyota does this.
I assume you meant Forest Service rather than Parks Service. There's often many managing agencies in surrounding areas but there are typically big differences in protection and conservation status between national parks, state parks and national forest lands. USFS is part of USDA, while the national parks are part of the Dept of Interior. Wilderness provides additional protection status designation.
Im 6'3 and fit in the Tacoma. I think as journalist you drive many vehicles and its better to say the Tacoma isn't as comfortable as other trucks in the segment. Because I fit in my 2022 TRD Offroad. Never the less, great review.
I found my 2017 Tacoma very comfortable as well. I always wonder why they don’t make those comments in sports cars. Tacoma is designed for off road and that’s what gives it the high running ground clearance.
@@Offshore1977 Tacoma as an entire lineup is not designed for off-road, imo. The off-road packages obviously, but otherwise it’s a standard midsized truck meant for midsized truck things. I would also agree with reviewers that it is not an impressive vehicle to sit in. I was quite surprised that I felt the position in the 4Runner was quite a bit better, despite the Tacoma being a truck and looking impressive it just feels small when you’re in it.
Just bought a 2023 Pro 4x and absolutely love it. The TRD PRO was easily an additional 10k and just couldn’t justify the additional cost. The comfort in the Nissan definitely seems much better than my experience in the Toyota
That 10K will be spent when you take your nissan to the shop.The complexity of that new nissan engine will make your mechanic's head spin.And that tranny is suspect at best.You havent heard of nissan trannies suck?Now the previous gen frontiers are solid.
@@triggersafe1 complexity? As someone that has worked on tuned GTR’s and Porsche’s i think I’ll be ok….It’s a naturally aspirated v-6…compared to alot of vehicles that are forced induction these days, it’s much less complex than most. How is it any more complex than a Tacoma? Also, please cite your source on the failure rate in these motors
I would love to see a Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Honda Ridgeline, Hyundai Santa Cruz road trip comparison. Climb a trail mountain like, how do they compare on highway
I don't understand the complaints about not fitting in the tacomas...(maybe it's a third gen problem)I have only driven 2nd gens but I am 6'4 and fit perfectly fine. When I get in squeezing my right leg to the other side of the steering wheel is the only issue but it's minor, it's not like it;s a struggle.. I've never found headroom to be a problem either.
People these days are picky sobs! When you buy Toyota or Honda, you pay for quality, reliability, and after sale value! I don't know who drives Nissan, Mazda, and Ford which breaks down soon! If you just wanna drive and change your vehicle in a few years, you can drive any then! 😂
Love the country you drove through... I've been on some of these roads in my Toyota Corolla! Going very slowly! Cleman Mountain, Wenas, Manatash Ridge... gorgeous in the spring for sure. Put a lift, better shocks, and bigger tires and get rid of the side steps and the Nissan is a great truck...
I drive my corolla to Ferris Butte in Washington every summer. The last couple miles are a little tricky. You should see the looks I get from the guys in the 4x4 trucks
Just an observation; it seems the tires on the taco have more off road bias. It would be cool to see both trucks with KO2. I'm a Toyota guy but the Nissan is ticking more boxes for me, roomier inside, more hp. The new taco will probably be priced out.
I'm reading your comment a year later and you're absolutely right about the new Tacoma being priced out. Sweet Lord have they gotten expensive, Even the regular old SR5 is absurd. I'd easily choose the Frontier and pocket ~8k in savings since they aren't marked up and are cheaper anyway.
To me, they are both very good looking trucks. And they would both go anywhere I plan on going. I don't plan to Rock crawl. I would however like to own a home or Ranch in the type area Y'All were driving the trail. I think it would be nice to get to see that view on a regular basis. Looks peaceful as well.
I had to watch for 22 minutes before I found anything that would even be a challenge for my fwd subcompact. I wouldn't hesitate to take my little shit box through this. At any slight obstacle they just turn on 4wd or hill decent control when they could just use momentum or choose a better route. You are showing what vehicle is best for people who cannot drive off road instead of actually showing what is best for people who actually drive off road.
Now, going down the hill, if you put the pro fx in manual 1st with hill descent, would that produce a different downhill speed outcome, versus leaving it in drive?
I had a Nissan frontier a couple of years ago off road and it was great I should’ve never sold it. I test drove a Tacoma and I felt like I was sitting on the floor very uncomfortable very tight cockpit I would never buy one.
1000% agreed, I test drove a 2022 Tacoma TRD Pro and a 2022 Frontier Pro 4x side-by-side, Frontier is far more comfortable, Nissan isn't joking w/ their Zero-gravity seats, I swore by them in my 2019 Maxima SR (Road tripped across the country and never got fatigued from driving once) and LOVE to see them in my 2022 Frontier Pro 4x that I bought, full optioned w/ lots of accessories, for 52.5k out the door. With the higher price & dealer markups I couldn't get the TRD Pro for under 70k. The frontier is also a lot more refined on road and while towing.
Realistically a frontier is way more affordable compared to the Tacoma and there both really reliable I have a 2008 Nissan frontier nismo and it’s been trucking like a tank and so far I’ve had no big mechanical problems yet (nock on wood)
Both great trucks. I have always liked midsize trucks for some reason. Tacoma was what I always thought I would go with when I bought one. I decided on the Ranger Tremor and am still happy with my decision. I’d like to see a comparison with the Tremor and TRD Pro.
@T-boe the first are you just mad that your Taco needs a pedal commander to hang with my tiny turbo? Because stock vs stock a TuRD Pro can not hang with my truck. That’s a fact.
Well I mean neither truck is made for racing, although the turbo will have more power, what’s going for Toyota is it’s proven to be very reliable. That’s more the trade off really till they update it.
Have owned 2 Taco's and now a currently have a Frontier that i bought new in 2012. Both are dang good trucks. I prefer the Nissan for the ride, comfort and overall heavfty feel of it. Nice reassuring thunk when i close the door. The toyota fell kinda flimsy. For heavy off road the taco is probaby better from the showroom floor. But the Nissan could be too with a few parts upgrades.My next truck will be a Nissan too.
I have a question in regards to what is said at 15:50. In a car that is all-wheel drive you have to have 4 matching tires, but 4 wheel drive you don't. is that the case for all cars? For example, I'm going to get a Outback Wilderness and I was planning on having a full-spare tire that is the same. But if it wasn't, what would be the drawback?
What matters most is that the size is the same, since you don't want long-term use of an off-size tire. It can be damaging to the AWD system. Short jaunts (to the tire store) are okay, but extended use causes issues.
I can only speak for myself, but please Nissan, bring back the Xterra!! I have a 2015 I bought because it was the last year made, so I swear I'll run out and buy a new one.
@T-boe the first older direct injection vehicles are already proving to be terrible in the long run. toyota was super smart to add port injection to keep the carbon buildup down
@@beye3angels Yes every owner I've talked to seems to be totally satisfied.....even Titan owners love theirs. Seems trucks are the only thing left that Nissan is stout on.
Honda had one of those same recalls when their 9-sp came out on the Odyssey. So far they've been reliable afterwords, but time will tell on the Nissan.
@@LukeMelto they use the same transmission. If Honda’s used them with successful reliability, then it can be determined that Nissan will have a similar outcome.
I SO love those adventure rides! Perfect mix of gorgeous views and great reviews. Both trucks are quite good picks but I'll take a ZR2 because of Ryan's review :D (Happy 4th of July!)
The Colorado ZR2? Yeah, I was considering that one. It was between these two, the Colorado, and a Gladiator Rubicon. I went with the Rubicon, purely for the off road performance, but I love all of them.
I bought the Pro4X in Boulder Gray. Super comfortable on long trips and I think it looks fantastic. I also enjoy not having the same truck as half my city.
I bought the same one in California (high desert) and no one other than me has this truck. Toyota everywhere truck. It drives good and I have taken it to big bear and actually had to get a Tacoma and Colorado out of a ditch!!
Low keys felt that 😂😂 I drive a taco
Yeah but will girls still talk to you?
How's the turning radius?
Nice…handsome truck….
greetings from russia! wow, this is a battle like Kalashnikov vs AR.)) I love pickup trucks. God bless America
Thanks for watching! Great metaphor 😂
Спасибо! Из Америки
yup
@@DMJ160
Kalashnikov. Easy win for reliability.
God bless Russia 🇷🇺
He says Nissan makes boring cars? Did they stop making the Z and the gtr? What sports cars does Toyota have? The bmw Supra? Or the Subaru FRS?
My thought exactly
nicely put
For real if anything Nissan has way more racing icons in history 😏
Toyota makes boring cars too. Popular, yet boring.
I also felt like smacking the kid when he said that. The GTR is a car god
I love the looks of the Frontier; it looks like a truck with some edge softening and details to help make it look current. And, I much prefer the simpler dash controls vs. the trend towards big screens.
The big screen in the NEW Tacoma looks horrible, like a Tesla i drove.
Same brother. I love the simplicity of my work truck (with no screens) in a '15. Fewer distractions and less stuff to break over time. Any specific additions that might be needed, such as a backup camera, can still be purchased in the aftermarket.
Also, my dad has owned a couple mid-range Frontiers, and they always seem to serve him well. Definitely wouldn't mind something like that if I ever wanted to downsize.
This is exactly what nissan offers on both their frontier/titan but the consumers want bigger screens and calling them outdated which in reality they making a product that would last longer with fewer thing to break but the consumers 🤦♂️🤦♂️
Physical buttons > touch screens
You should have switched back and forth between the vehicles so you both can compare the trucks to each other, not one person's opinion against the other person's.
On a side note, I hope they make the next tacoma with more room inside so it's comfortable like the 4runner.
they usually do. but I think sometimes there is some paperwork and insurance affair involved so they technically can`t.
Sadly the Tacoma will never be as good as the 4Runner in terms of room.
Agree
They both have driven, tested, and reviewed the Tacoma. And I believe that would be the same for the Nissan. They’ve tested both, but in separate videos.
@@robertmisiuk7137 it's not the size of the cab that matters it's how you utilize it that's important.
You gave me a real reason to test drive a new Nissan before just plunking down money on a Toyota because it's a Toyota. Thanks.
What’d you end up going with?
Nissan Frontier Crawl ratio 60:1 fully boxed frame Dana 44 locking rear (pro 4X) Dana front diff, Spicer transfer case, powerful VQ engine, rear disc brakes, bullet proof made in the good ol' USA. Tacoma=33:1 crawl ratio, C frame (with on going frame recalls due to corrosion) rear drum brakes, now made in Mexico, reliability declining and Toyota tax.
Thank you for these details, I feel like no reviewer has ever really gone into those specifics on the Nissan.
Im between the navara and hilux, have driven my dads navara and uncles hilux, hilux is faster and tows better but nav is more comfortable and cheaper so because of price im probably going nav
I have the 2022 Pro-4x and have done some pretty rough stuff with it, no modifications. Totally factory. It does all the stuff I need it to and I love it. Both are great trucks, it came down mostly to what the Toyota dealerships were demanding. A TRD Pro was going to be $63,000+ whereas the Pro-4x was MSRP + $4000 dealer markup. Both highway robbery, but Nissan was far more manageable price wise. I'm totally happy.
I've taken the sidesteps off and that resolved a lot of the side to side clearance issues. Might get a lift when the warranty is up. Other than that, I'm in control of the truck, I don't bother with hill descent control or anything like that. It's the perfect camping, hunting, forest road truck.
And the Toyota is the same price whether made in America or with cheap Mexican labor. I called Toyota and they said any truck on any Toyota lot can come from multiple countries, and you just have to run the VIN to know.
Great video! When I was shopping for a 4x4 truck the Tacoma was my first choice without researching anything simply because Toyota just dominates the marketing aspect of this category. However upon doing actual research (reading articles, watching videos, and talking to owners of each truck) I finally decided on the Nissan Frontier Pro-4x. You just simply get more bang for your buck with the Frontier - it's just as capable and according to many, more reliable than a Tacoma. When I would ask a Tacoma owner why they chose that truck the most common answer I would get is "because it's a Toyota!" But they couldn't tell you anything about the engine, transmission, performance, etc. It seemed like most people just buy into Toyota's "legendary reliability" without researching the Tacoma's terrible transmission history. I was able to purchase a 2020 Nissan Frontier Pro-4x with only 2,500 miles that was more affordable than a 2016 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road with 40,000 miles lol. It seems like Tacoma's are overpriced based more off of marketing hype rather than actual performance. They are both great trucks but the Frontier has a better engine, transmission, and more comfortable seats.
Good luck with your frontier dood
I did the same thing and ended up with one it's a lease might return ut if I can get something better for the same price
It's hard to talk about reliability of the new gen Frontier, because the engine and tranny are just few years old, and the rest is virtually new (like electronics and stuff). It does not share much with the "older" Frontiers, which indeed proved quite reliable (2010 and over, older had coolant/tranny failures)
Terrible transmissions? Lmao you don’t know tacomas. Yes they shift gears a lot on hills which is annoying, but they are reliable just annoying. The frontier is too new to know if they are more reliable. Good luck on the Nissan
@@eduardomendoza2989 I spoke to people who worked in the automotive industry and even have a friend who's job was to test reliability on many vehicles including Tacomas and Frontiers. According to his personal experience the Frontiers outlasted the Tacomas every time, and the weak point of the Tacoma is that out-dated transmission. True, it might be too early to make the assumptions on the new Frontier but there haven't been any major issues so far. I hope the refresh on the Tacoma (and 4Runner) will feature an updated transmission.
I do not understand why Pro4x reviewers never remove the side steps, as they are designed to do when offroading, but still complain about it. If you're doing a comparison video, you need to match the trucks evenly in any area you can. Also, unless you go off road everyday, it's actually on road performance that matters most in any vehicle that will be daily driven. I've owned a current gen Tacoma TRD Offroad and a previous gen Frontier Pro4x and there is simply no question that the Frontier was the far better driving truck. The Tacoma was so annoying to drive that I sold it in under a year. With its terrible driving position, gear hunting transmission, bad chassis vibrations, weak engine, etc I just hated driving that truck on the road and that's what really matters in an adventure vehicle that is also your daily driver. I'll probably get another Pro4x, eventually.
You are right....the steps are screwed in. I have a Tundra with predator side steps and they are welded. I like the Nissan design of screws. I tried explaining this to some guy on another video and he told me Nissan steps are not removable. In this video Ryan even mentioned it with text.
Fake news folks, fake news.
@@cruiser_b9779 wtf are you even talking about
I just got the pro4x last Oct. I love it. I like most people drive it on the street 80-90% of the time. But i have taken it off road, and it performed just fine for a stock truck. The difference in price was the main thing that made me buy a pro4x instead of the TRD pro. Was almost 10 grand difference. I am sure the dealerships were just trying to take advantage. . I could spend the difference in aftermarket parts, and out perform the TRDpro probably. . ALSO, the pro4x has a fresh look, while the TRD just looks like the same old bar of soap. KNow what i mean.
@@invisibleazn9330 Same old bar of soap that can perform. Not the bath and body works fragrance poison you call soap, and totally use.
hill descent control in my frontier works flawlessly on hills like that. did you have your foot on the brake or accelerator? it’s only active if you aren’t touching either pedal. your brake lights weren’t illuminated in the rear shot of the truck after you flipped the switch, so I don’t think the system was activated properly. the brakes lights will illuminate automatically if the system is active.
I don’t think he used it correctly either. I’ve never seen it do that before.
The little steps are removable to improve clearance while leaving the rail for a little body protection.
It’s amazing the amount of TH-cam reviews I’ve seen on this truck that miss that fact… just take the steps off!!!!
Just picked up our 2023 pro 4x, and very happy with it so far
and now? still happy?
Most driving is done on road, not off, so for me personally the on road comfort would trump any off road bells and whistles. I haven't driven either but the on road comfort would win the comparison. If you really need off road capabilities, and are not buying a vehicle because it looks cool, or for resale value, which is also a factor, then the TRD makes sense. For 90% of real world driving the Frontier is probably a better choice. I've also never experienced first hand the Tacoma's transmission hunting but have driven next to one that was doing so on a slight grade and that alone would make me crazy after spending $50.000 on a new truck with yesteryear's transmission.
I love everything about the Frontier - some may say it’s a dated look and feel, but with everything else getting uglier (the new Tundra, for example), and digital dashboards and iPad looking screens, the analog gauges and switch gear in the Frontier are more preferable. The upcoming redesigned Colorado and Tacomas will likely not be available with a V6. This is it folks.
Oh man the new tundra is just terrible
This is exactly what nissan offers on both the titan/frontier but the consumers are calling them outdated but in reality nissan is giving you a product that is less likely to break and would last you longer but the consumers are just 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️ and is true a year later and both taco/Colorado down graded on their engine so yeah this is the truck to get or the ranger if you want to have problems
Back from a cross-country trip from Niagara Falls to California. My 2022 Pro4X was freaking awesome. Very comfortable during long days of driving, 4X4 driving down to the mighty Yuba did all that was asked.
What’s really awesome is that both are great trucks. Love having options.
True, but it's too bad the Nissan didn't have a manual option.
Very fun video. Being a Toyota guy, it’s fun to see the Taco doing well, but that Nissan is really impressive. Seems like it’s the better vehicle for most folks in terms of daily driving, and it clearly still does great on the trails. I’d be curious to pit it against the Off Road since they have the more similar suspension, but still. Plus, always fun when the people reviewing the vehicles are having as much fun as y’all are. Clearly I need to road trip and go test out that track for myself! Keep up the fantastic work. Always appreciate the level of detail you put in your videos
Also, y’all hit the nail right on the head with “this is what most people will ever do.”
No comparision. Toyota all the way
Tac8 6 speed A/T is junk. Wish I had not bought a 2013 tacona TRD off Road truck. Should have bought it in the 6 speed manual transmission.
@@josephmulheron652your biased opinion
@@TIJoe-te9qunah taco truck 100% last gen frontier was better then current frontier. But same can be said for 2024 Tacoma
I have a loaded 2024 pro4x red alert , leather , sun roof. It has plenty of technology. I love it , beautiful truck . $48,680
The TRD Off-road is the more 1 for 1 comparison when it comes to capability and price to the Pro4x
Exactly!
Yep Pro4x has always been a direct competitor for the TRD Off road......not TRD pro
Truck king channel did the same bullshit comparison too.
@@dontdriveangree it's ok to compare them, but that caveat should always be added. It's a $5k difference, before any dealer markups
@@stopdamadness closer to 20k with every toyota dealership marking them up 10-15k.
Tacoma has telescoping steering wheel but I can understand why you would think it wouldn’t, you gotta yank it pretty hard relative to other cars that i’ve tried. I didn’t know I had it until maybe 2 or 3 months into ownership of my 2021.
I like this guy but he misses some things. In another he complained about heavy steering.. not knowing it had electrical assist with 3 different settings.
it has kind of a lever under the wheel which lets u easily adjust the wheels position I've never had to yank it so hopefully ur not breaking ur tacoma :)
Lol when he said neither have a telescoping steering wheel I was like 🤨. It literally has a lever at the bottom 😂.
I love the look and off road capabilities of the Tacoma , only drove Tacomas from the late 80s and mid 90s ( smaller and less technology ) But i have a 2012 Frontier and a Pathfinder and i highly recommend Nissan trucks!
Wonder how reliable this new Frontier is? Or how reliable was the past Frontier?
@@chrisnguyen4611 they are very reliable..i had 5 have 1 now ....02 .07 .10 13 .2020..
@@ftheturks100 Agree. I'm on my third Frontier. The first two were extremely dependable. (I honestly can't recall a single time either had to go in the shop. ) And now I'm loving my '21. The only reason I sold the first two was because #1 The kids got too big to ride in the jump seats and #2 I needed to buy a bunch of lumber and out of three vehicles, it was the oldest. LOL
@@chrisnguyen4611 Had my Frontier Pro 4x since 2012 (its a 2010). As for reliability, I havent been too hard on it and have had to spend a large sum on the AC, and the cat convertor. Other then that normal stuff like tires and stuff.
The only issue is I have had 4 nissans in my 50 years and every... single... one... has had electrical issues. Nothing major just oddities like batteries dying, sensors going out, etc.
Overall still been a great truck and I plan to get another one in the next 3-4 years.
The frontier may be my next truck. I have a 1998 Tacoma 4wd that I bought new back in 98. I use for gnarly trails. Its totally set up with driveline, suspension, armor and the winch in the bumper for the unknown. Those two models your showing are good for exactly what you’re doing but not much more without mods. I have a 2018 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition that can handle anything you’re showing on this video but it has crappy ground clearance so can do really bad ruts.
Yay more nick content thanks Ryan I’m so happy. His channel is underrated. We need to fix that immediately. Nick = angel
These videos make me want to make a month long trip out to Washington just to drive all these routes. Love the comparison - hard to go wrong with either truck.
Look up the North Cross State, Highway 20. It’s one of the beautiful drives I’ve been on
life is too short ,,, get out there
Having sat in and driven both, I went with the Frontier. Toyota really needs to work on driver position/ergonomics. It just doesn't feel good, even after short drives.
it's all about personal opinion, I haven't sat in the Frontier, but the Tacoma's position is great for me, i'd like more telescoping, but other than that it's very good. Opposite to the older guy in this video, I prefer my knees above my hip, i don't like sitting on an office chair in any vehicle.
@@gwot I agree on the per person but Tacoma’s aren’t for tall people. The roofline is too low and cuts off my field of vision. Basically everything is too low for a tall individual
I purchased the seat jackers for my Tacoma the added jackers is like sitting in a different vehicle
@@PHILLIPS8822 do you sit lower?
@@jlaw1901 No to me a little higher
Thanks - a very realistic review for the 99% of owners who will drive these trucks, and not modify them.
The Frontier's running boards steps come off, takes literally 2 minutes, 4 bolts per step, do it while you're airing down the tires and then you have really beefy rock sliders on the side. instead of steps that scrape. I just throw them back on after I get done wheeling because I like how they look and my 5'2" GF needs them to get in the dang truck (Even more so once I get my 3" Nisstec lift on there.)
I have a 22 Frontier with the factory running boards and I would 100% recommend NOT using them as "rock sliders" the running boards attach to the body of the truck and not the frame. I took mine off and will be purchasing actual Rock sliders for this very reason. Just an fyi.
Does the Frontier come in manual?
I have that green pro4x, LOVE IT!!! The TRD pro was actually the truck I was trying to buy at first. BUT the stealership markups put it out of my range. In the spec i wanted was starting at above 50k plus tax tag etc etc. I got the pro4x in a higher spec trim then I wanted out the door for less then 50k. I am not a hardcore overlander. I just do light overlanding. I mainly just haul my mountain bike to the parks and help friend/family move bigger things. Was a no brainer for me to get the frontier. Also, Nisstec makes great lift kits for the frontier which will make up for some of the minor deficits to the TRD. May even in fact out perfrom the TRD with the kits installed, and money wise you'd be about the same level. I like both trucks, BUT I am definitely a Frontier fanboy now after owning one.
They resemble each other.
Both are iconic figures.
Tomorrow July 4th will be 3 years of ownership for me of my TRD Tacoma with almost 55k miles. I have totally gotten used to how the transmission works in the thing but I will say and it does also mention this in the owner's manual that if the truck is upshifting too much for example you're driving up a mountain pass and it's constantly shifting between 4th gear and 5th gear you simply put it over into s-mode and have it in 4th gear and it will not up shift anymore.
Love 3rd gen Tacoma as well.
Yup I figured that out too, people just love to complain lol. Also turn on ect power and it helps
If you added the nismo branded upgraded billstien shocks/ leveling kit bringing the cost closer to the Toyota's price point but still a little bit less you might have gotten a surprisingly different review I'd like to see a review like that
I still see the Tacoma TRD Pro with an MSRP of $10-12 more than the Nissan Frontier Pro-4x. And the Taco doesn’t come with skid plates, and they charge a lot if you want an automatic transmission.
It’s July 3rd and we are getting steady rain here in north central WA state. This is unheard of for this time of the year. Our mountains are still green. Normally they are golden brown except for the numerous pine trees
No it’s not
@@AdandeJorcoza In north central WA state it’s not normal
As I am a big Toyota fan. The Nissan looks really good. A lift and 33’s would be just perfect. And it’s a lot cheaper.
There’s a reason that the Nissan is a lot cheaper….
@MustafarRecRoom yeah because idiots overpay for Tacomas
I believe Nissan did an excellent job all-around for the Frontier pkg. No disrepect to the Tacoma at all, as I am a Yota guy. The Frontier will make you look twice no doubt!
You can get upgraded billstien shocks from nismo at the dealership for the frontier & they make a huge difference both on & off road
I appreciate this comparison video, as I’m currently looking at both. I’m an avid off-roader and owner of a JLU Rubicon that has been heavily modified. These days I’m doing more highway driving, and the Jeep is way overbuilt for any kind of efficiency. While these two trucks aren’t an apples to apples comparison, I feel the Frontier has the edge in everyday drivability with occasional off-roading. I also like the interior and overall finish of the P4X better. Plus with the price difference I can build a dedicated rig to beat on the rocks. Good video, but the same driver in both vehicles would have been a better comparison. I could definitely see a difference in skill levels.
BY for one of the best true comparison videos I have ever seen. you guys nailed it 100% for me. I do not want the same truck as everyone else. All the men in my family seem to have Tacoma's and I feel compelled to go in the other direction. i ended up with a used Tundra which really is almost "too much truck" for me. I really really like the Pro 4x. and you guys have done a great job convincing me that it is ok to "go the other way" lol.
I bought a new Tacoma 2 years ago and ended up selling it back... the transmissions are very bad, sadly I didn't notice during the test drive :(. I installed a shift sense pro on it, but at that point it just felt like putting a bandaid on a brand new truck
Hopefully with the new tacoma toyota plans to release they keep the manual transmission as an option.
The perfect video for my Sunday
You have the greatest job man. I wish I could test drive 4X4's and drive on scenic trails for a living!!
Thanks for the comparison. Next time, I will prefer that both of you would test each truck, even that it will limit the time and the distance. And after that, each one share their experience and preferences.
My wife and I have a great comparative advantage for Toyota’s crawl control system: I have an 04 Land Cruiser with none and she has a 13 LX570 with the system. My bare bones rig is simple and strong and has no trouble with anything reasonable, just needs some patience and care with ascents and descents. The Lexus with crawl control is surprisingly intuitive but really does all the work for you and I’m honestly not a big fan of it, I’d much rather run my old LC where I have control. But hers has a fridge in the center console to keep a couple beers cold to celebrate a nice run so I think it all evens out in the end!
I really love what toyota is doing lately with all their models
What? Not improving them. They are getting left in the dust. The ride of the Tacoma will never let me drive another one again. Horrible suspension.
You like Toyota ugliness, like the sucker fish tundra?
Though I'm not a big fan of video channel intros...your intro is on par with the best.
My 2018 Tacoma has tilt and telescope on the steering wheel. Did they lose that feature or is the video just wrong? It's not a lot of telescope, but it's there.
I have a 2017 with tilt and telescope and was wondering the same thing.
2022 also has the tilt and telescope
2021 has it as well
They both did great. Toyota has more tech, for sure. I'm happy and surprised that just about all the new 4wd stuff from all companies is great! I'm impressed with just about all of it , really.
I get tired of seeing videos of nothing but Jeep Wranglers on trails.
Great to see stuff that's very capable and stuff that probably rides a lot better than a Wrangler too.
4x4's get banged up. jeeps are cheaper to repair, by a friggin mile.
@Vote_Blue jeeps are also far less reliable and breakdown far more often.
@@ranran2218 Brands sort of don't exist anymore.
2.4 Cherokee Trailhawk engine : Fiat
3.2 engine : Chrysler
2.0 engine : alpha Romeo ...
So who makes the Cherokee Trailhawk? Lol...
The transmission is made by ZF. Same company makes the Porsche transmissions. It's also used in the range Rover Evoq. Is it a range Rover ?
Is it a German car , a European car or is it an American car?
Wait a minute the 2.4 engine in the Jeep Patriot was a world engine used in several different manufacturers and was made mostly by Hyundai. So are Jeeps Korean cars ?
What's a Jeep ?
The speakers in my last Jeep were made by Mitsubishi.
Is it a Japanese car ?
It is VERY hard to map a brand to reliability. It's easier to map a particular vehicle to reliability.
@@off-roadingexplained8417yes, and if you look at the wrangler as a specific vehicle it’s far less reliable
I drove both and bought a pro4X. Its more comfortable to drive and more powerful. More bang for the buck. The comparable tacoma for the same cash, did not have a locking diff, navigation sunroof etc. Etc. I lifted my frontier 2", added ditch lights from diode, method wheels and K02's, prinsu roof rack is coming and a bed rack. It looks badass. Rides really well and decent mileage. With these mods, 10L per 100kms
😂 upload some pictures
@@urizalzman
I like the Frontier! I own a Xterra and I’ve owned it longer than any other vehicle and has been very reliable.
What year?
@@absolute.freedom 2007
@@mlm32809 good to know and thank you. Does it have the 3.3l or 4.0l?
@@absolute.freedom 4.0
Back in June I was heavily looking into these 2 trucks. I ended up with the Tacoma, but both trucks are just amazing. I couldn't beat the price for my '22 Tacoma though.
DAMN
Back when I was in college we took that road in a civic and a volkswagon van. Great place to do shrooms.
Airing down would have definitely helped and lowered the risk of tire puncture
Looks like you guys are in the second section of the WABDR Section 2. Nice trail, nice comparison. Really appreciate for making this segment!
I have seen this video twice and it is clear to me the Tacoma TRD Pro was way better off-road. I am 67 and have no problem getting into or out of my 2021 TRD OR. Also no problem with the seating position. The Frontier is cool but Tacoma is still King! It will also outlast and hold it’s value better.
Truth!
Only downside I can see if the frontier compared to the Ranger or Colorado (other than the parking pawl issue) is the lack of rear seat space for a child seat. The Tacoma, imo really needs some updates. Better mpg, power, and automatic transmission. However, still having a 6spd option is really great, but unfortunately, unavailable on the base model (which is what I would buy and do any upgrades myself).
Thanks tk
I fit a seat with no issue,, so not sure what size baby you need to haul unless you are sitting there in a baby seat
The advantage of the Frontier is that you don't have to have a crew cab.
Bro there is space for a car seat, not sure what you mean tbh.
Tacoma= c channel frame, rear drum brakes, no power, 33:1 crawl ratio, made in Mexico with Toyota tax.
Frontier= fully boxed Titan frame , real power, made in the USA, 60:1 crawl ratio, Dana 44 rear locking diff, Dana front diff and spicer transfer case.
also just the right amount of tech.
Gotta love the classically dramatic choir track with these big, clumsy vehicles slo-mo driving through muddy puddles!!
@21:17 Love how much shock travel Tacoma got on the jump and had more control on the landing.
Well yeah it has Fox shocks, it's basically mid travel set up from the factory by toyota. The nissan here should of been tested against a normal tacoma trd offroad with the same bilstein shocks as the frontier here. I'm a tech, just saying.
@@oldv1288
8.5” front & 11” rear suspension travel for all Gen 3 Tacomas.
“mid travel”… 😂😂😂
@@R_Tower You don't know what you're talking about.
@@oldv1288 Your own Taquito forums say otherwise.
Comment a Toyota link showing Gen3 Tacomas have “mid travel” levels of suspension travel😂
@ralatorre9 No, you're incorrect. As I said. The TRD pro suspension is basically mid travel set up. Just add a good aftermarket upper control arm it will give you even more suspension travel. That's why the Taquito here is better than your frontier. Besides, I've modded and been around Tacomas before your internet made them a cringey fad. Go away, man.
My father got his Frontier. My god I will say I am impressed. The interior is super clean. The seats are cloth but are very comfortable. Something I really like is the space it has, definitely better than the Tacoma. Another thing I really enjoy is the heaviness of the steering wheel. Idk why but it just feels good.
After seeing reviews for the new 2023 Colorado and Canyon, Toyota better have something phenomenal in mind for the 2024 all new redesign. Available 310hp and 430ft/lb with towing capacity up to 7000lbs. With front and rear lockers and an 8 spd transmission… Better ground clearance, more interior space, more technology.
I've owned chryers ford's gm. Never again. I'd go with the Toyota because it comes in a manual and it's more truck than what I need. The Nissan is nice but no manual option.
That’s Papa John’s
I currently own a 2001 Toyota Tacoma SR5 access cab 4x4 TRD with 201,000 miles. While it was a rust bucket(recently had spot welding done on the subframe and rustproof undercoating), the motor which is a V6 and automatic transmission has had no major issues. I do agree with some of the folks saying drum brakes on a $45k plus truck. (Yes. I think heard Toyota say it’s proven old school and easy to work on). Ok. Then maybe price it based on old school pricing. Lol.
One other observation is again with a $45k plus truck, still using solid rear differential with no way of replacing the rear differential cover if needed when they start rusting out and leak. Then what? Try to spot weld the leaks on a differential. Or the hunt for a spare at a junkyard.
2001 Taco does not have the latest safety features like collision warning, don’t run over pedestrians feature, lane departure, etc, etc. And it only has 4l,4h with a rear locker. Just common sense driving and realistic expectations of using the 4 wheel drive system is why I love the truck so much.
I had a 2001 just like yours. I know it would run forever but I needed more space for an additional baby occupant. 2021 doublecab TRD Offroad is perfect. Not too big like the tundra, I can go pretty much every where with this truck with all the safety of today's standards. I feel totally safe in my truck
I looked at both and went with the P4X. More comfortable, better engine and tranny, and no rear drums. Love it so far!
Doubtful a better engine or tranny.
@mysteriousoklahoma777 it is tho. The 3.5 in the taco is high revving engine and lacks power. The tyranny is bad and as you add weight it can't find the right gear. It's a horrible combination and severely lacking. I def wanna see how Nissan's 3.8l direct injection holds up in terms of reliability long term but I've looked and can't find anything bad about it.
There are so many taco videos where peoppe add larger tires and some camping gear or any load (bumpers or w.e ) and the transmission can't find gears and will keep switching on a long drive, that is annoying. Peoppe routinely swap rear end ratio to accommodate. Trucks aren't suppose to have to rev out to 6k for power curve haha, the Toyota does this.
I assume you meant Forest Service rather than Parks Service. There's often many managing agencies in surrounding areas but there are typically big differences in protection and conservation status between national parks, state parks and national forest lands. USFS is part of USDA, while the national parks are part of the Dept of Interior. Wilderness provides additional protection status designation.
Great video. You really do a fantastic job…
Nice to finally see them side by each and to really compare David to Goliath. Awesome video yet again guys.
Im 6'3 and fit in the Tacoma. I think as journalist you drive many vehicles and its better to say the Tacoma isn't as comfortable as other trucks in the segment. Because I fit in my 2022 TRD Offroad. Never the less, great review.
I found my 2017 Tacoma very comfortable as well. I always wonder why they don’t make those comments in sports cars. Tacoma is designed for off road and that’s what gives it the high running ground clearance.
Lol. You must drive looking sideways out the rear window. 5’10” max for Tacoma driver comfortably.
@@Offshore1977 Tacoma as an entire lineup is not designed for off-road, imo. The off-road packages obviously, but otherwise it’s a standard midsized truck meant for midsized truck things. I would also agree with reviewers that it is not an impressive vehicle to sit in. I was quite surprised that I felt the position in the 4Runner was quite a bit better, despite the Tacoma being a truck and looking impressive it just feels small when you’re in it.
Will pick up my Pro4X on Monday. I can't wait.
Just bought a 2023 Pro 4x and absolutely love it. The TRD PRO was easily an additional 10k and just couldn’t justify the additional cost. The comfort in the Nissan definitely seems much better than my experience in the Toyota
That 10K will be spent when you take your nissan to the shop.The complexity of that new nissan engine will make your mechanic's head spin.And that tranny is suspect at best.You havent heard of nissan trannies suck?Now the previous gen frontiers are solid.
@@triggersafe1 complexity? As someone that has worked on tuned GTR’s and Porsche’s i think I’ll be ok….It’s a naturally aspirated v-6…compared to alot of vehicles that are forced induction these days, it’s much less complex than most. How is it any more complex than a Tacoma? Also, please cite your source on the failure rate in these motors
And from my experience, Toyota isn't what it once was. Toyota doesn't even stand behind their products
2020 Tacoma Trd Pro MT 45k
I would love to see a Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Honda Ridgeline, Hyundai Santa Cruz road trip comparison. Climb a trail mountain like, how do they compare on highway
LOL love the Tacoma but wow that crawl control makes it sound like a mechanic kitten
But it works very well.
I had to tune my tacoma for the gear searching issue, now I can’t complain about anything! Even got 3 mpg better after tune!
how do u do so?
Find a tuner for tacomas in your area. Look for Facebook groups for tacoma owners in your area
Overalll I’d take the Toyota but the Nissan is a very good option. The interior space would be the difference for me.
I don't understand the complaints about not fitting in the tacomas...(maybe it's a third gen problem)I have only driven 2nd gens but I am 6'4 and fit perfectly fine. When I get in squeezing my right leg to the other side of the steering wheel is the only issue but it's minor, it's not like it;s a struggle.. I've never found headroom to be a problem either.
People these days are picky sobs! When you buy Toyota or Honda, you pay for quality, reliability, and after sale value! I don't know who drives Nissan, Mazda, and Ford which breaks down soon! If you just wanna drive and change your vehicle in a few years, you can drive any then! 😂
Love the country you drove through... I've been on some of these roads in my Toyota Corolla! Going very slowly! Cleman Mountain, Wenas, Manatash Ridge... gorgeous in the spring for sure. Put a lift, better shocks, and bigger tires and get rid of the side steps and the Nissan is a great truck...
I drive my corolla to Ferris Butte in Washington every summer. The last couple miles are a little tricky. You should see the looks I get from the guys in the 4x4 trucks
Just an observation; it seems the tires on the taco have more off road bias. It would be cool to see both trucks with KO2. I'm a Toyota guy but the Nissan is ticking more boxes for me, roomier inside, more hp. The new taco will probably be priced out.
I'm reading your comment a year later and you're absolutely right about the new Tacoma being priced out. Sweet Lord have they gotten expensive, Even the regular old SR5 is absurd. I'd easily choose the Frontier and pocket ~8k in savings since they aren't marked up and are cheaper anyway.
To me, they are both very good looking trucks. And they would both go anywhere I plan on going. I don't plan to Rock crawl. I would however like to own a home or Ranch in the type area Y'All were driving the trail. I think it would be nice to get to see that view on a regular basis. Looks peaceful as well.
I tried it but life without museums, clubs, theaters, and quality hospitals gets old real quick.
@@acedia4453 What if you never care for those things?
Trying to hold out for the updated Ranger, but that pro4x is sharp
Not sure if this was already mentioned, the Tacoma does have a telescoping wheel, you just gotta pull a little harder than you think.
I like the Nissan Frontier
I had to watch for 22 minutes before I found anything that would even be a challenge for my fwd subcompact. I wouldn't hesitate to take my little shit box through this. At any slight obstacle they just turn on 4wd or hill decent control when they could just use momentum or choose a better route. You are showing what vehicle is best for people who cannot drive off road instead of actually showing what is best for people who actually drive off road.
Why wouldn’t you unbolt the predator steps from the Nissan?
Because they test as is
Great question!!!!!
@@MrCherrygrovedude They're designed (and encouraged) to be removeable though, it's literally 4 bolts each for 2-3 extra inches of ground clearance.
Nissan people literally told me to take them off to have better clearance
Now, going down the hill, if you put the pro fx in manual 1st with hill descent, would that produce a different downhill speed outcome, versus leaving it in drive?
I agree with you, I still like Nissan better overall. Excellent video and comp!
The Double 4H must be running with the downhill system in order for the system to work
I had a Nissan frontier a couple of years ago off road and it was great I should’ve never sold it. I test drove a Tacoma and I felt like I was sitting on the floor very uncomfortable very tight cockpit I would never buy one.
1000% agreed, I test drove a 2022 Tacoma TRD Pro and a 2022 Frontier Pro 4x side-by-side, Frontier is far more comfortable, Nissan isn't joking w/ their Zero-gravity seats, I swore by them in my 2019 Maxima SR (Road tripped across the country and never got fatigued from driving once) and LOVE to see them in my 2022 Frontier Pro 4x that I bought, full optioned w/ lots of accessories, for 52.5k out the door. With the higher price & dealer markups I couldn't get the TRD Pro for under 70k. The frontier is also a lot more refined on road and while towing.
Realistically a frontier is way more affordable compared to the Tacoma and there both really reliable I have a 2008 Nissan frontier nismo and it’s been trucking like a tank and so far I’ve had no big mechanical problems yet (nock on wood)
Both great trucks. I have always liked midsize trucks for some reason. Tacoma was what I always thought I would go with when I bought one. I decided on the Ranger Tremor and am still happy with my decision. I’d like to see a comparison with the Tremor and TRD Pro.
@T-boe the first that’s fine. And I’ll smoke that V6 all day long in my tiny 4 banger.
Somebody is mad that their Taco can’t hang. You need a hug?
@T-boe the first are you just mad that your Taco needs a pedal commander to hang with my tiny turbo? Because stock vs stock a TuRD Pro can not hang with my truck. That’s a fact.
Is that why the new ones are going to be 4 cylinder turbo’s?
Well I mean neither truck is made for racing, although the turbo will have more power, what’s going for Toyota is it’s proven to be very reliable. That’s more the trade off really till they update it.
Have owned 2 Taco's and now a currently have a Frontier that i bought new in 2012. Both are dang good trucks. I prefer the Nissan for the ride, comfort and overall heavfty feel of it. Nice reassuring thunk when i close the door. The toyota fell kinda flimsy. For heavy off road the taco is probaby better from the showroom floor. But the Nissan could be too with a few parts upgrades.My next truck will be a Nissan too.
I think the pro4x is a much better truck than the over priced and out dated Tacoma, Nissan did a great job on this truck.
I have a question in regards to what is said at 15:50. In a car that is all-wheel drive you have to have 4 matching tires, but 4 wheel drive you don't. is that the case for all cars? For example, I'm going to get a Outback Wilderness and I was planning on having a full-spare tire that is the same. But if it wasn't, what would be the drawback?
What matters most is that the size is the same, since you don't want long-term use of an off-size tire. It can be damaging to the AWD system. Short jaunts (to the tire store) are okay, but extended use causes issues.
@@drivingsportsWow, I wasn't expecting such an immediate reply. Thank you!
I can only speak for myself, but please Nissan, bring back the Xterra!!
I have a 2015 I bought because it was the last year made, so I swear I'll run out and buy a new one.
Would love to see an update version of this with the new 2024 Tacoma as I’m currently cross shopping the new ones.
WhAt about long term reliability? Can the Nissan hold up compared to the Toyota? 🧐
@T-boe the first older direct injection vehicles are already proving to be terrible in the long run. toyota was super smart to add port injection to keep the carbon buildup down
Yes it will hold up....there are frontiers out there with well over 500K. That engine is rock solid.
th-cam.com/video/4Cc3AgIy4vw/w-d-xo.html
@@dalephillips8250 they are built in Mississippi which I would want to think they have good quality being American made .
@@dalephillips8250 you realize thats a completely different engine in the older ones.
@@beye3angels Yes every owner I've talked to seems to be totally satisfied.....even Titan owners love theirs. Seems trucks are the only thing left that Nissan is stout on.
Nice . . . I've heard great things about the road between Nile and Ellensburg; it's nice to see the route from the ground.
Here's food for thought. Nissan just issued a recall for the transmission in the frontier. Park lever doesnt engage and may cause a roll away event.
Honda had one of those same recalls when their 9-sp came out on the Odyssey. So far they've been reliable afterwords, but time will tell on the Nissan.
@@LukeMelto Nissan uses a Mercedes’ 9 speed, what does Honda use? This shouldn’t happen to the Nissan.
@@Barbwire710 ZF's 9HP
@@LukeMelto they use the same transmission. If Honda’s used them with successful reliability, then it can be determined that Nissan will have a similar outcome.
@10:00 thanks for the technical info!!! very interesting dude.
I SO love those adventure rides! Perfect mix of gorgeous views and great reviews. Both trucks are quite good picks but I'll take a ZR2 because of Ryan's review :D
(Happy 4th of July!)
The Colorado ZR2? Yeah, I was considering that one. It was between these two, the Colorado, and a Gladiator Rubicon. I went with the Rubicon, purely for the off road performance, but I love all of them.
Drums music and puddle splashing, oh yeah! What a dramatic off-roading!😁