Nissan Frontier Vs. Chevy Colorado: Performance, Trims, Towing Capacity & More

Few vehicles are as versatile as a midsize truck, but choosing between a Nissan Frontier vs. Chevy Colorado can be challenging. They are both hard-working vehicles with welcoming cabins. This guide dives into these two models so that you can make an informed decision.

2024 Nissan Frontier vs. Chevy Colorado Performance & Specs

The 2024 Nissan Frontier relies on a 3.8-liter V-6 in every trim level, which generates 310 horsepower and allows it to achieve an EPA-estimated 18/24/21 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).¹ Chevy automakers are currently selling the 2023 Chevy Colorado, with the production of the 2024 model beginning at the end of October 2023 with no known release date. However, many assume this truck will carry over the 2.7-liter inline-four-cylinder engine from the 2023 version, which makes 237 horsepower in its entry-level trims with a higher-tuned version available in the upper-level trims.

At its most efficient, the 2023 Chevy Colorado standard engine makes an EPA-estimated 22 (City/Highway Combined).⁴ However, if you want the same horsepower you get with the Nissan Frontier and its standard engine, this drops down to 20 MPG (City/Highway Combined),⁸ lower than the Nissan model. We'll have to wait a while for the official 2024 EPA estimates for this truck.

All the figures so far have been for these vehicles' 2WD versions. However, they both come with traction-boosting 4WD as well.

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Chevy Colorado vs. Nissan Frontier Interior

The Nissan Frontier seats four people in its King Cab configuration and five people if you choose the larger Crew Cab. The Chevy Colorado also has a Crew Cab that accommodates five.

The Nissan model Crew Cab offers more shoulder room across both rows, as well as more second-row headroom. Its front headroom can be affected by the available moonroof. The 2023 Chevy Colorado also has an optional sunroof, but it's only available on select 4WD trims, while it can appear on 2WD trims in the Nissan Frontier.

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Frontier vs. Colorado Technology & Features

While both of these vehicles can have well-equipped cabins, how well-equipped can depend on how much you're willing to spend. For instance, you get a standard heated steering wheel and heated front seats in the SL and Hardbody Editions of the Nissan Frontier. Despite the ZR2 being much more expensive than the top two Nissan tiers, it only has a heated steering wheel as an optional upgrade, costing you even more money. Heated front seats are standard in this trim but not in the one below it.

While a seven-speaker Bose® premium audio system is available on the ZR2, the Nissan Frontier SL comes standard with a 10-speaker Fender® premium audio system, including subwoofers. We tend to prefer the Nissan Frontier model.

Visit Don Williamson Nissan to Test Drive a Truck Today

We like to customize our offerings to our customers' needs whenever possible, so if what you've heard has inspired you to get a Nissan pickup, but part of you still wants to keep your options open, we can help you lease a new Nissan Frontier instead. This shorter-term agreement means you can keep an eye out on new advances in the midsize truck sphere, and if one sounds like it's perfect for your needs, you can easily switch when your lease term runs out. You'll also not have to worry about long-term maintenance if you plan to lease continuously.

However, we'd also be happy to help you with financing. Contact our team today for a no-obligation quote or to set up a test drive.

FAQ

Is the Nissan Frontier more fuel-efficient than the Chevy Colorado?

The Nissan Frontier and Chevy Colorado are comparatively rated in fuel economy, and the exact rating you can get from these trucks depends on which trim, powertrain, and drivetrain you choose. For example, if both trucks utilize their 310-horsepower option and 4x2, the 2024 Nissan Frontier is generally more fuel-efficient than the 2023 Chevy Colorado. However, we are still waiting on the 2024 Chevy Colorado ratings.

Which is more reliable: the 2023 Nissan Frontier or the Chevy Colorado?

Based on the latest data from RepairPal.com, which reviews the 2023 Nissan Frontier and the 2023 Chevy Colorado, the Nissan Frontier had a four out of five rating and was ranked #1 for Reliability for midsize trucks.⁹ Despite also having a four out of five rating, the Chevy Colorado was ranked fourth¹⁰ and was said to have a larger annual repair cost than the Nissan model.

Is the Nissan Frontier towing capacity greater than the Chevy Colorado?

The Chevy Colorado has a greater maximum towing capacity than the Nissan Frontier. It can tow 7,700 pounds when properly equipped. However, this requires making certain selections, including getting the higher-tuned engine. The Nissan Frontier has greater standard-engine towing capacity, which can help save you money while also still allowing you to tow a trailer or boat with you.

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Check Out Other Nissan Comparisons

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¹2024 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 18 City MPG / 24 Highway MPG / 21 Combined MPG for Frontier® 4x2; 18 City MPG / 23 Highway MPG / 20 Combined MPG for Frontier 4x4; 18 City MPG / 22 Highway MPG / 19 Combined MPG for Frontier PRO-4X 4x4. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.

²Towing capacity varies by configuration. See Nissan Towing Guide and Owner’s Manual for additional information. Always secure cargo.

³Maximum payload capacity when properly equipped. Maximum payload of up to: 1,620 lbs. for MY24 Frontier King Cab® 4x2, 1,450 lbs. for MY24 Frontier King Cab® 4x4, 1,480 lbs. for MY24 Frontier Crew Cab 4x2, 1,310 lbs. for MY24 Frontier Crew Cab 4x4, 1,300 lbs. for MY24 Frontier Crew Cab Long Bed 4x2, 1,100 lbs. for MY24 Frontier Crew Cab Long Bed 4x4. Payload capacity varies by configuration. See Nissan Towing Guide and Owner's Manual for additional information.

⁴EPA-estimated 20 city/25 hwy 2.7 L, 4 cyl, Automatic 8-spd, Turbo.

⁵Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner's Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.

⁶When properly equipped. For more information, see this Chevy Pressroom file

⁷Speculative information in this column comes from Car & Drive

⁸EPA-estimated 18 city/23 hwy 2.7 L, 4 cyl, Automatic 8-spd, Turbo.

⁹For reference, see RepairPal.com

¹⁰For reference, see RepairPal.com