
With its not-quite-full size and its not-so-secret off-road persona, the Toyota Tacoma doesn't have many natural competitors.
There's one exactly in its crosshairs: the Nissan Frontier, a mid-size pickup that we think is better suited for everyday drivers thanks to a better interior package, slightly better drivability and a bit less focus on the trailblazing.
Its fraternal twin is the Suzuki Equator, a rare badge-engineered version that Nissan builds alongside the Frontier for Suzuki.
The Honda Ridgeline has a far more spacious interior and more comfortable ride; it's not at all biased toward off-road capability, but instead to toting ATVs, motorcycles, and other paraphernalia in its stubby, cubby-riddled bed.
Get FREE Dealer Quotes
From dealers near you
![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() |
---|---|---|---|
Quick Specs | |||
If you don't truly need a full-size truck, the Toyota Tacoma's price and simplicity could make it a viable alternative--but it can get expensive, and its ride and gas mileage will have you reconsidering your motives. |
Muscular but lower in fat thanks to turbo V-6 power, the 2013 Ford F-150 shares the truck lead thanks to extreme towing capability and best-in-class tech features. |
|
The 2013 Nissan Frontier is the best alternative to a full-size pickup: it's maneuverable, manageable, and a bit more conscious of gas mileage. |
MSRP From | |||
$17,625 | $24,070 | $29,450 | $17,990 |
Gas Mileage | |||
15 MPG City / 25 MPG Hwy | 11 MPG City / 23 MPG Hwy | 15 MPG City / 21 MPG Hwy | 15 MPG City / 23 MPG Hwy |
Engine | |||
Gas I4 | Gas/Ethanol V6 | Gas V6 | Gas i4 |
EPA Class | |||
N/A | N/A | 4WD Standard Pickup Truck | N/A |
Style Name | |||
2WD Reg Cab I4 MT (GS) | 2WD Reg Cab 126" XL | 4WD Crew Cab RT | 2WD King Cab I4 Manual S |
Drivetrain | |||
Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Four Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | |||
3 | 3 | 5 | 4 |
Passenger Doors | |||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Body Style | |||
Regular Cab | Regular Cab Pickup | Crew Cab Pickup | Extended Cab Pickup |
Transmission | |||
Manual | Automatic | Automatic | Manual |
Detailed Spec Comparison | |||
2013 Toyota Tacoma vs. 2013 Ford F-150 | 2013 Toyota Tacoma vs. 2013 Honda Ridgeline | 2013 Toyota Tacoma vs. 2013 Nissan Frontier |