What To Know
- The Nissan Frontier is available in King Cab and Crew Cab configurations, while the Dodge Dakota is offered only in Crew Cab.
- It provides a more powerful engine, higher towing capacity, and a more spacious cabin at a lower cost.
- If you require a pickup with a high towing or payload capacity, the Nissan Frontier is the better choice.
In the realm of midsize pickup trucks, the Nissan Frontier and the Dodge Dakota stand as formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a blend of capability, versatility, and style. But which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of these two pickups, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and overall value proposition.
Performance and Capability
Engine Options
The Nissan Frontier offers two engine options: a 3.8-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 with 241 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque. The Dodge Dakota is available with a single engine, a 3.7-liter V6 that generates 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque.
Towing and Payload Capacity
In terms of towing capacity, the Nissan Frontier with the V6 engine can haul up to 6,720 pounds, while the turbodiesel version can pull up to 9,360 pounds. The Dodge Dakota, on the other hand, has a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.
For payload capacity, the Nissan Frontier V6 offers 1,610 pounds, while the turbodiesel variant can handle 1,480 pounds. The Dodge Dakota has a payload capacity of 1,850 pounds.
Interior and Features
Cabin Space and Comfort
The Nissan Frontier and the Dodge Dakota offer similar interior dimensions. Both vehicles provide ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers. However, the Frontier has a slightly more spacious cabin with more shoulder room.
Infotainment and Technology
The Nissan Frontier comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Dodge Dakota features an 8.4-inch touchscreen with similar integration capabilities. Both systems include Bluetooth connectivity, voice control, and navigation.
Safety Features
Both the Nissan Frontier and the Dodge Dakota offer a range of safety features, including airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. The Frontier comes standard with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Dakota offers these features as optional extras.
Exterior Design and Styling
Body Styles
The Nissan Frontier is available in King Cab and Crew Cab configurations, while the Dodge Dakota is offered only in Crew Cab. The King Cab Frontier has two doors and a small rear seat, while the Crew Cab offers four full-size doors.
Styling
The Nissan Frontier has a rugged and muscular exterior design, with a prominent grille and flared fenders. The Dodge Dakota, on the other hand, has a more refined and modern look.
Reliability and Maintenance
Reliability Ratings
According to J.D. Power, the Nissan Frontier has a slightly higher reliability rating than the Dodge Dakota. The Frontier received a score of 78 out of 100, while the Dakota scored 74 out of 100.
Maintenance Costs
Maintenance costs for the Nissan Frontier and the Dodge Dakota are generally comparable. However, the Frontier may have slightly lower maintenance costs due to its longer service intervals.
Value and Pricing
Base Price
The Nissan Frontier has a lower starting price than the Dodge Dakota. The base Frontier King Cab starts at $30,590, while the Dakota Crew Cab starts at $32,995.
Value for Money
The Nissan Frontier offers a better value for money than the Dodge Dakota. It provides a more powerful engine, higher towing capacity, and a more spacious cabin at a lower cost.
Final Verdict: Nissan Frontier Triumphs
After a thorough comparison, the Nissan Frontier emerges as the superior choice over the Dodge Dakota. It offers a more powerful engine, higher towing capacity, a more spacious cabin, and a better value for money. While the Dodge Dakota has a more refined exterior design, it falls short in key areas that are essential for a midsize pickup truck.
Decision-Making Guide
To help you make an informed decision between the Nissan Frontier and the Dodge Dakota, consider the following factors:
- Towing and Payload Needs: If you require a pickup with a high towing or payload capacity, the Nissan Frontier is the better choice.
- Interior Space and Comfort: The Nissan Frontier offers a more spacious and comfortable cabin, especially for rear passengers.
- Technology and Features: Both vehicles offer similar infotainment systems, but the Nissan Frontier comes standard with more safety features.
- Reliability and Maintenance: The Nissan Frontier has a slightly higher reliability rating and potentially lower maintenance costs.
- Value for Money: The Nissan Frontier provides a better value for money than the Dodge Dakota.
What You Need to Know
1. Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
The Nissan Frontier turbodiesel has a higher towing capacity of 9,360 pounds, compared to the Dodge Dakota‘s 6,500 pounds.
2. Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
The Nissan Frontier has a slightly more spacious interior, with more shoulder room and legroom for passengers.
3. Which vehicle has a better reliability rating?
The Nissan Frontier has a higher reliability rating than the Dodge Dakota, according to J.D. Power.