Compare the Nissan Frontier and the Chevy Colorado to find which midsize truck delivers the best mix of power, towing, and everyday use for South Texans.
South Texan drivers depend on their trucks for work, family, and weekends off the grid, exploring uncharted territory. Between the job site, towing duty, and driving coastal backroads, a good midsize pickup must balance strength with everyday dependability. Two standouts in this class are the Nissan Frontier and the Chevy Colorado. Both offer impressive performance, but their personalities—and priorities—differ in key ways.
Every 2025 Nissan Frontier comes standard with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, it delivers smooth, consistent acceleration whether you’re on I-37 or hauling through rural Texas.
The 2025 Chevy Colorado offers several engine options, all based on a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. Its output ranges from 237 to 310 horsepower, depending on trim. The Colorado’s engine options appeal to drivers who want choices, while the Frontier’s single, proven V6 engine keeps things simple and powerful across the lineup.
If you’re a Texan who loves towing boats, trailers, or work equipment, the Frontier’s 6,640 pound towing capacity provides plenty of muscle. The Colorado can also tow up to an impressive 7,700 pounds when properly equipped, but this higher number is only available on select trims and configurations.
Most owners will find both trucks fully capable for weekend trips or job-site hauling. The Frontier’s standard torque and rear-wheel drive setup give it a predictable, planted feel under load—ideal for long stretches of Texas asphalt.
Rugged terrain comes with the territory of mid-sized trucks. The Frontier PRO-4X trim includes Bilstein shocks, skid plates, and an electric locking rear differential for extra traction when the pavement ends.
The Colorado’s ZR2 trim pushes even further with Multimatic shocks and extra clearance for dedicated off-roaders. For drivers who split time between workdays and dusty trails, the Frontier PRO-4X offers a more balanced mix of off-road strength and everyday comfort.
Inside, the Frontier feels ready for both comfort and work. It’s available in King Cab and Crew Cab configurations, offering flexible space for tools or passengers. A standard 8-inch touchscreen (or optional 9-inch) runs NissanConnect® with Apple Carplay® and Android Auto™. Keyless entry, Intelligent Cruise Control, and Automatic Emergency Braking are available across trims.
The Colorado’s cabin is modern and functional, featuring an 11.3-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration on most trims. However, several advanced safety features are reserved for upper trims, while the Frontier includes the full Nissan Safety Shield® 360 suite on every model.
Fuel efficiency is close between these two midsize pickups. The Frontier earns around 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway, while the Colorado reaches approximately 20 MPG city and 25 MPG highway miles.
Pricing starts around $32,000 for the Frontier and $31,000 for the Colorado, with higher trims going above $45,000. For Coastal Bend drivers comparing the 2023 Nissan Frontier or newer models, its standard features remain one of the truck’s biggest strengths—offering standard power, tech, and safety without expensive add-ons.
| Feature / Spec | 2025 Nissan Frontier | 2025 Chevy Colorado |
| Engine | 3.8L V6, 310 hp | 2.7L Turbo, 237–310 hp |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Max Towing | 6,640 lbs | 7,700 lbs |
| Fuel Economy (city/hwy) | 18 / 24 MPG | 20 / 25 MPG |
| Off-Road Trim | PRO-4X | ZR2 |
| Safety Suite | Safety Shield® 360 standard (Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert) | Most features optional |
| Cab Options | King Cab, Crew Cab | Extended Cab, Crew Cab |
| Starting Price | ~$32,000 | ~$31,000 |
The Chevy Colorado delivers solid towing and off-road credentials, especially for drivers who customize their setup. But the Nissan Frontier stands out for its standard power, everyday comfort, and safety features that don’t require upgrades.
It all depends if you want to build the perfect truck for your specific needs, or pick one with an impressive baseline build, like the Nissan Frontier, that earns its keep, day after day.
If you are ready to experience it for yourself, you can explore new Frontier models at Hicks Family Nissan in Robstown or stop by during business hours for a test drive.
