The midsize pickup truck market offers drivers an open bed and hauling capacity without the large proportions of a full-size truck. The Nissan Frontier and the Chevrolet Colorado represent two compelling options, but they go about it differently.
Both trucks have been in their respective generation for a few years now, so let’s see how they compare in 2026.
2026 Nissan Frontier
Nissan made some changes to the Frontier’s overall style in 2025, and this year added enhancements to its trim selections. The Frontier has standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on all trims, with an 8-inch touchscreen on the S model and a 12.3-inch display on the SV and PRO-4X models. The S requires wired smartphone connectivity, while SV and PRO models have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Nissan Frontier Highlights
Driving experience: The Frontier is powered by a responsive 3.8-liter V6 making 310 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive (RWD), though 4-wheel drive (4WD) is at least a $3,000 option. The rugged PRO-4X adds an electronic locking differential for enhanced traction. If you plan to do a lot of off-pavement activity, the PRO-X and PRO-4X models come with all-terrain tires and Bilstein shocks. The PRO-4X also includes a surround-view monitor with an Off-Road Mode that lets you see around and under the hood and front axle. All Frontier models can tow up to 7,150 pounds.
More variety: The Chevy Colorado comes exclusively in a crew cab/short box configuration, since that’s the most popular setup for a midsize truck. In the absence of the full-size Titan, the Nissan Frontier offers more variety. You can get one with a King Cab (extended cab) or Crew Cab, and a long box is available with the crew cab models, making the Frontier almost as functional as a full-size pickup. The King Cab only comes in the base S grade.
Features: The Frontier adds a new drive mode selector for improved control across different terrains. PRO trims have heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote engine start, which are all available on S and SV models through the AllWeather Package. SV and PRO trims also include a standard 8-way power driver’s seat, while S and SV grades gain LED lighting for improved nighttime visibility.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Frontier models for sale near you.
2026 Chevrolet Colorado
Like the Frontier, the Colorado is largely a carryover from 2025. This is a well-equipped, comfortable pickup that has multiple off-road variants, ensuring there’s a Colorado for every truck enthusiast.
Chevrolet Colorado Highlights
Driving experience: The Colorado has one engine across all trim levels, yet it is a powerful 2.7-liter turbo-4 that puts out 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard on the lower trims, and 4-wheel drive (4WD) is optional for at least $3,300. Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2 trims come with 4WD only. The towing capacity is 7,700 pounds, which is 650 pounds more than the Frontier.
Features and tech: Chevy’s infotainment interface is very user-friendly. It has a big standard 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google built-in and voice activation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard, with an optional wireless charging pad. The technology package adds a surround-view camera, allowing the driver to see all around the truck, which is great for backing into tight spaces.
Off-road trims: The Trail Boss starts almost $10,000 lower than the ZR2, and it offers off-road enthusiasts a more affordable point of entry into the midsize truck market. With all-terrain tires, a 2-inch lift, a 2-speed transfer case, and an off-road performance display, you won’t be disappointed. For those who want the ultimate off-road experience, the ZR2 Bison is more capable and has the rugged aesthetic to match. It includes even more ground clearance, larger wheels and tires, and unique off-road dampers.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Colorado models near you.
Similarities
These are two mid-sized, customizable trucks that are well-priced for what they offer. They also both offer factory off-road trims that are stylish and capable.
Pricing
New 2026 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$35,245 |
$34,600 |
|||
$37,885 |
$37,500 |
|||
$40,265 |
$39,500 |
|||
$43,565 |
$42,800 |
|||
$43,565 |
$42,800 |
New 2026 Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$34,495 |
$32,600 |
|||
$38,095 |
$36,000 |
|||
$42,495 |
$40,400 |
|||
$46,495 |
$43,300 |
|||
$52,595 |
$49,100 |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2026 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab vehicles and New 2026 Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2026 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab | 2026 Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 3.8-liter 6-cylinder | 2.7-liter turbomax 4-cylinder |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 2WD |
| Range | N/A | N/A |
| Towing Capacity | 7,070 pounds | 7,700 pounds |
| Payload Capacity | 1,490 pounds | 1,710 pounds |
| Curb Weight | 4,466 pounds | 4,310 pounds |
| Minimum Ground Clearance | 9.3 inches | N/A |
| Horsepower | 310 hp @ 6,400 rpm | 310 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm | 430 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm |
| Transmission | automatic, 9-speed | automatic, 8-speed |
| Fuel Economy | 19 city/24 highway/21 combined mpg | 19 city/24 highway/21 combined mpg |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 4 stars | 4 stars |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 126 inches | 131.4 inches |
| Overall Length | 210.2 inches | 213.0 inches |
| Width With Mirrors | 73.0 inches | 84.4 inches |
| Width Without Mirrors | N/A | 74.9 inches |
| Height | 71.8 inches | 78.8 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 42.7 feet | N/A |
| Headroom, Front | 39.9 inches | 40.3 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 38.6 inches | 38.3 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 42.3 inches | 45.2 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 33.2 inches | 34.7 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 58.2 inches | 57.4 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 58.3 inches | 56.1 inches |
| Cargo Volume | N/A | 41.9 cubic feet |
| Bed Length | 5 feet | 5 feet |
Specification table reflects the typical configuration of vehicles shown.
Conclusion
We love that the Nissan Frontier has two cab and two box options, and purists will appreciate that it’s still powered by a naturally aspirated V6. It feels like a useful tool, and that’s exactly what it is. Meanwhile, the Chevy Colorado feels a little more modern in its more SUV-like interior, and its off-road variants are just plain awesome. The right truck for you depends on your needs.
