If you’re in the market for a midsize truck, the 2025 Ranger is the best model on the market, coming with some class-leading features that help give it the edge, but if you’re needing some more convincing, we'll put it head to head with its closest rival, the Nissan Frontier.
Key takeaways
- The Ranger comes with better engines, helping it tow more, and go further.
- The Ranger comes with great off-road capabilities, thanks to the Raptor.
- While the Ranger has a higher price tag on the starting trim, it does come with better features.
Which has better engine options: Ranger
When looking at the two models, the Ranger has engines that are better. Most Ranger trims come equipped with a 2.3L EcoBoost engine, providing 270 horsepower. If that’s not enough power, then you can opt for the 2.7L V6 that is optional on higher-end trims. This engine provides 315 horsepower.
For the Frontier, you can find one engine, the 3.8L V6. This engine provides 310 horsepower. Despite the Frontier having a larger engine between the two models, it has less towing power.
The Frontier’s towing capacity is 7,150-pounds, compared to the Ranger’s 7,500-pounds. This makes the Ranger the one to get for handymen who want a bit more power.
Towing capacity isn’t the only place where the Ranger has better engine options, it also comes with better mileage. At its best, the Frontier’s engine can get 21 MPG combined at its best. Comparing this to the Ranger’s 23 MPG combined, the Frontier can’t keep up.
Which has better value: Ranger
When looking at the two models, their prices are fairly similar. The Frontier has a lower starting price at $32,050, with the Ranger having a higher starting price at $33,330.
While the Ranger does have a slightly higher starting price, it comes with much better features that help give it even more value. The Ranger comes with a 10-inch screen that comes with phone connectivity. Some other features that you can find are remote keyless entry, as well as a remote tailgate lock.
Some features that you can find on the Frontier are an 8-inch screen, as well as remote keyless entry. The Frontier even offers keyless entry, but not a remote tailgate lock, making you have to do it manually, and if your hands are full, that is a bit inconvenient.
Which is built for off-roading: Ranger
When people think of Ford pickups, the Raptor comes to mind. The Ranger Raptor comes with a 3.0L V6 engine, 2.5” FOX racing shocks with live valve technology, Watts-Link Rear Suspension, and locking axles for both the front, and rear.
This engine can produce 405 horsepower, and 430 lb-ft of torque, making it a monster both on, and off road. Making it the perfect option for adrenaline seekers.
The Frontier does come with some off-road capability for the PRO-X, but nowhere near the same level as the Raptor. This comes with Bilstein off-road performance shock absorbers, but other than that, there's not much else.
The PRO-X also comes with a trim specific engine, this is the 3.8L V6, able to produce 3310 horsepower, and 281 lb-ft of torque.
Which is the best all around option: Ranger
In our opinion, the Ranger is the best option for those who value capability, price, and features. While the Frontier did its best, the 2025 Ford Ranger fuel economy and performance just make it better. If you're wanting to see a Ranger in person, then come on down to Jarrett-Gordon Ford here in Winter Haven, we’d love to put you in your next dream vehicle.