Toyota Tacoma vs. Nissan Frontier

Shoppers who want a modern MIDSIZE PICKUP truck from one of the big three American automakers certainly have their pick. However, there are currently two capable midsize trucks offered by Japanese companies.

Both the Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma arrived on U.S. shores in the late 1990s to compete with popular domestics like the Ford Ranger and DODGE DAKOTA. But while Chevrolet, Dodge and Ford have all since ended their own midsize truck production, the Frontier and Tacoma have yet to call it quits.

Do midsize trucks serve enough purpose over full-size pickups to justify their CONTINUED existence in the U.S.? And if so, which of the two imports is better?

What the TOYOTA TACOMA Gets Right

It's hard to argue against the functionality of a pickup bed, but there are those who don't need the space of a full-size truck. Most appealing about the TACOMA is its open-air bed and the ability to fit in almost any garage. Plus, 

the Tacoma has numerous body styles including regular, extended and crew cab, which provide seating for up to five passengers.

A four-cylinder engine with 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque is standard, though a 4-liter V6 with 266 pound-feet of torque is available. For truck shoppers who intend to haul or tow frequently, we highly recommend the V6.

What the NISSAN FRONTIER Gets Right

As with the TACOMA, the Frontier's size simply makes sense for some buyers. Other positives include the array of available trim levels like the Desert Runner package, which gives a four-wheel drive look to 4x2 Frontiers. Extended and crew cab body-styles are offered, though higher trim is available only on the latter.

The standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with a five-speed manual transmission. A V6 with over 260 horsepower is standard on all crew cab models. When properly equipped, the Frontier is surprisingly capable off-road, yet still maneuvers well on pavement.

So Do Midsize Trucks Still Have a Place on America's Roads?

In one word: Yes. Most full-size trucks measure over 230-inches in overall length, and can be difficult to drive and park. Midsize pickups, meanwhile, are agile vehicles that can fit into those skinny parking spots at the grocery store. For shoppers who frequently need the utility of a truck without its size, the MIDSIZE PICKUP is perfect.

MY Verdict: Nissan Frontier

The Tacoma and Frontier are close rivals, but the Frontier puts itself on top with better ride quality and available leather-seating.