While the saying goes that dogs are man’s best friend, it’s often forgotten that a good Pickup can come pretty close. Luckily, the US market doesn’t lack for solid models to choose from, and this year the Ford Ranger and Nissan Frontier are two models that come incredibly close to challenging for top honors.
In this 2025 Ford Ranger vs Nissan Frontier comparison, we’ll be looking at the latest upgrades, performance updates, and news you can expect from the two models to make the best choice for your new pickup in the 2025 model year.
Key Takeaways
- The Frontier sees major aesthetic tweaks, getting a new front end and a crew cab configuration.
- The Ranger has new paint and an appearance tweak of its own to match.
- The Black Appearance package is added onto the Ranger, making for a Ranger that looks as good as it runs.
Is Nissan changing the Frontier in 2025?
Yes! The most noticeable update is the redesigned front end, giving the Frontier a bolder new look, but this year’s changes are more than just skin deep. The Crew Cab with a long 6-foot bed, once limited to the SV trim, is now also offered on the Pro-4X and SL models, adding more versatility across the lineup.
Towing capacity sees a boost too, now maxing out at 7,150 pounds, making for an improvement of 510 pounds over the previous model. While that still trails behind key competitors like Ford and GM, the extra capability could make a difference for some buyers. Comfort and convenience also get a lift. The steering column is now telescoping, so it adjusts for both height and reach. Standard features now include a sliding rear window and an overhead sunglasses holder, while trims SV and above benefit from power lumbar support for the driver’s seat.
Tech updates are front and center: blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and rear parking sensors now come standard. Starting with the SV trim, buyers get a 12.3-inch touchscreen and wireless Android Auto, which joins the already standard wireless Apple CarPlay. The SL trim adds wireless phone charging and a 360-degree camera system. On the Pro-4X, that camera includes a special Off-Road Mode, now usable at speeds up to 12 mph, helping drivers spot trail obstacles before they become a problem.
What is the update for the Ford Ranger 2025?
For 2025, the Ranger receives a light refresh with some tweaks to its paint palette and a new appearance package. Cactus Gray, Iconic Silver, and Hot Pepper Red have been retired, making way for Ruby Red Metallic, Desert Sand, and Marsh Gray as fresh color options. A new Black Appearance package also joins the lineup, adding a bold, stealthy look. Pricing for the 2025 Ranger, as of this writing, ranges from $34,675 for the base model to $45,475 for more heavily optioned trims.
- XL - $34,675
- XLT - $37,205
- LARIAT - $45,475
The Lariat trim is upscale, offering a cabin that rivals full-size pickups in comfort, though the mid-tier XLT strikes a better compromise between features and value. It comes equipped with a solid lineup of amenities, including LED exterior lighting, 17-inch aluminum wheels, power-folding side mirrors, in-dash navigation, a wireless charging pad, and even a truck bed power outlet. It also includes Ford’s Co-Pilot 360 driver-assist suite, bundling blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and lane-keeping assist as standard.
Summary
In conclusion, the Ford Ranger stands out for its new editions and fantastic as always reliability. It has the versatility needed in this class, offering a wide array of features including forward thinking tech, rugged off road practicality, and a killer look that makes for a truck that’s hard to deny in the 2025 model year.