Chevy Colorado Vs. Nissan Frontier: Midsize Truck Showdown
Get ready for an exciting pickup truck showdown with our Chevy Colorado vs. Nissan Frontier matchup. In this guide, we'll explore how the Colorado surpasses its competition in towing capacity, off-road capabilities, and cabin appointments. Ready for an in-person look? Visit our Bomnin Chevrolet West Kendall showroom today!
Engine & Transmission
Summary
Though each model makes 310 horsepower, the Colorado gets 149 more pound-feet of torque than the Frontier. Both come equipped with standard rear-wheel drive with four-wheel drive available, but the Colorado also has an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the Frontier has a nine-speed automatic transmission.
- 2026 Chevy Colorado – Under the hood of the 2026 Colorado is an eight-speed automatic and 2.7-liter TurboMax system that makes 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque.
- 2026 Nissan Frontier – Operating the Nissan Frontier is a 3.8-liter V-8 engine and nine-speed automatic transmission that makes 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque.
Towing & Hauling
Summary
Trucks from our new Chevy Colorado inventory are worksite champions with a maximum 7,700-pound towing capacity when properly equipped. The Frontier struggles to keep up with a 7,150-pound towing capacity.2
- 2026 Chevy Colorado – When properly attached, the Chevy Colorado can tow 7,700 pounds.1
- 2026 Nissan Frontier – When properly attached, the Nissan Frontier can tow 7,150 pounds.2
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2026 Chevy Colorado |
2026 Nissan Frontier |
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|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.7L TurboMax | 3.8L V-8 |
| Horsepower | 310 | 310 |
| Torque | 430 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft |
| Standard Transmission | 8-speed auto | 9-speed auto |
| Drivetrain |
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| 0-60 MPH | 6.8 s3 | 7.3 s4 |
| Standard EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 19 / 23 / 205 | 19 / 24 / 216 |
| Fuel Tank Size | 21.4-gal | 21.1-gal |
| Standard Length / Width / Height | 213 / 74.9 / 78.8 in | 210.2 / 73 / 71.5 in |
| Bed Sizes | 5-ft | 6-ft |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 4 |
| Curb Weight | 4,204 lbs | 4,627 lb |
| Maximum Cargo Space | 41.9 cu ft | 49.6 cu ft |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs1 | 7,150 lbs2 |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,846 lbs7 | 1,610 lbs4,8 |
| Standard Interior Features |
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| Standard Exterior Features |
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| Factory Warranty |
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| 2026 Chevy Colorado | Used Nissan Frontier |
Off-Road Performance
Summary
Only the Chevrolet Colorado comes with an available off-road suspension system, but all-terrain tires are available for both models. Paired with the impressive Colorado towing capacity and the available off-road packages to enhance capability, this Chevy pickup takes the crown in the off-roading category.
- 2026 Chevy Colorado – The Colorado is an excellent all-terrain champion with available all-terrain tires and off-road suspension.
- 2026 Nissan Frontier – The Nissan Frontier can conquer some off-road conditions with its all-terrain tires, but lacks an available off-road suspension.
Bed Size & Features
Summary
The Chevrolet Colorado has a five-foot truck bed and a host of available upscale bed features like a tailgate lock, bedliners, and cargo box LED lighting. The Nissan Frontier has a six-foot truck bed and many similar options for the cargo bed like bedliners, covers, and nets.
- 2026 Chevy Colorado – The Colorado comes with a five-foot truck bed that can be outfitted with accessories.
- 2026 Nissan Frontier – The Frontier has a six-foot truck bed with many available add-ons.
Interior & Features
Summary
The Chevrolet Colorado has better standard appointments than the Nissan Frontier, like a larger touchscreen, a better audio system, and wireless smartphone integration. The Nissan Frontier is well equipped, but it lags behind in audio, connectivity, and conveniences.
- 2026 Chevy Colorado – The 2026 Chevrolet Colorado is supremely well-connected with a standard 11.3-inch touchscreen display, an 11-inch Driver Information Center, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. It's also comfortable with cloth upholstery.
- 2026 Nissan Frontier – The Nissan Frontier also has comfortable cloth upholstery as a standard feature, but you'll need to shell out for a higher-tier trim for a larger touchscreen (12.3 inches) and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
Safety & Reliability
Summary
Both pickup trucks are replete with a range of safety technologies, but the Chevrolet Colorado has a more thorough collection of warranty coverage to keep you at peace behind the wheel. Plus, with the Colorado gets one complimentary maintenance appointment within the first year of ownership,11 like some other competitors – see our Chevrolet Colorado vs. Ford Ranger comparison for other points of comparison.
- 2026 Chevy Colorado – Enjoy advanced modern technologies like an HD Rear Vision Camera and Forward Collision Alert. Plus, enjoy long-lasting warranty coverage and one complimentary maintenance visit,11 which is something that not many other pickup trucks benefit from.
- 2026 Nissan Frontier – The Nissan Frontier has advanced technology, like Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection and Rear Automatic Braking. Although you won't get a complimentary maintenance visit, you will benefit from Basic, Corrosion, and Powertrain coverage.
Chevy Colorado Pros & Cons
- Capable engine specs and powertrain
- Large fuel tank
- Impressive torque output
Cons
- Driving in crowds may be difficult
- Feel efficiency could be better
- Bed size is conservative
Nissan Frontier Pros & Cons
- Modern appointments and tech
- Easier to access ride height
- Slightly more cargo room than competitors
Cons
- Lower towing capacity
- Lower standard passenger capacity
- Cabin lacking amenities
Conclusion
Choose the Colorado if you need a truck that provides both form and function.
Choose the Frontier if function over form is more your speed.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Chevy Colorado vs. Nissan Frontier Matchup
Which is more fuel efficient: the Colorado or the Frontier?
The Nissan Frontier is more fuel efficient than the Chevy Colorado, but not by much. The two have nearly identical MPG ratings. The Colorado gets an EPA-estimated 19/23/20 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)5 with its standard RWD configuration. The Frontier, in its standard configuration with RWD, operates with an EPA-estimated 19/24/21 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).6
Which offers more standard tech: the Colorado or the Frontier?
The Chevy Colorado comes with more upscale standard technologies than the Nissan Frontier. For example, the Colorado has a standard 11-inch Driver Information Center and an 11.3-inch LCD display, while the Frontier is unclear about the size of its Driver Information Center and boasts only an 8-inch touchscreen display. The Colorado also has more standard speakers than the Frontier.
Which offers a smoother ride: the Colorado or the Frontier?
Both the Colorado and the Frontier are smooth midsize trucks, but the construction of the Colorado may be more appealing to drivers who want to maximize their vehicle's value and their investment. The model opts for a TurboMax engine that makes 149 more pound-feet of torque than the Frontier, despite having an engine with a much smaller displacement.
Chevy Colorado Driver Reviews
1Before 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.
2Towing capacity varies by configuration. See Nissan Towing Guide and Owner's Manual for additional information. Always secure cargo.
3This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.caranddriver.com/chevrolet/colorado-2026
4This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.caranddriver.com/nissan/frontier-2026
5EPA-estimated 19 city/23 hwy 2.7-liter TurboMax engine.
62026 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 19 City MPG / 24 Highway MPG / 21 Combined MPG for Frontier. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
7For comparison purposes only. See the Owner's Manual and the label on the vehicle door jamb for the carrying capacity of a specific vehicle.
8Maximum payload capacity when properly equipped. Payload capacity varies by configuration. See Nissan Towing Guide and Owner's Manual for additional information.
9Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
10Roadside Assistance services provided by third-party providers for vehicles with an eligible service plan, subject to limitations and restrictions. Roadside Assistance is not a warranty; refer to the vehicle's Owner's Handbook for warranty details. Excludes costs for repairs, parts, labor, property loss, and expenses from accidents, abuse, racing, vandalism, and certain other conditions. Contact our dealership for details.
11The complimentary maintenance services listed on this web page are for informational purposes and shall not be solely relied upon. These services may have specific conditions, limitations, and exclusions, and not all vehicles may qualify for complimentary maintenance. For detailed coverage specifics, including what is included in the complimentary maintenance and any potential costs, please contact our dealership.