Midsize pickup trucks like the 2025 Nissan Frontier and 2025 GMC Canyon offer tons of utility and go-anywhere capability that’s one size below larger, more expensive full-size models. Competing against the likes of the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Jeep Gladiator, the Frontier and Canyon are fresh from recent updates and pack a wide array of features.
This latest version of the Frontier comes with a stout V6 engine, available 4-wheel drive (4WD), and a choice of two cabins and two cargo beds. Updates for the 2025 model year include the availability of a long bed with the crew cab, more standard safety tech, and revised styling.
There are some updates to the Canyon as well. There’s a new AT4 Nightfall Edition. In addition, the new Bed Pro Utility Package adds extra storage options for the truck bed.
How do these midsize trucks compare? Let’s explore the highlights of the Nissan Frontier and GMC Canyon to find out.
2025 Nissan Frontier
The 2025 Frontier is available in five trims: S, SV, Pro-X, Pro-4X, and SL. The S and SV can be had with either the shorter King Cab or roomier Crew Cab, whereas the upper three trims all come with the Crew Cab.
Under the hood of the Frontier is a 3.8-liter V6 that produces 310 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It works in cooperation with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard while 4-wheel drive is optional; however, 4-wheel drive comes standard on the Pro-4X. The Frontier’s maximum tow rating is 7,150 pounds.
Nissan Frontier Highlights
Two cabs and two cargo bed choices: Truck buyers often like having many options when configuring a vehicle. In this regard, the Nissan Frontier wins thanks to its two available cabin sizes and bed lengths — the Canyon offers only one of each. The larger of the Frontier’s cargo beds measures 73 inches (versus the smaller 59.5-inch bed). It’s fitted to King Cab models and optional on the SV, Pro-4X, and SL Crew Cab.
Utili-track system: This handy feature uses bed rails and cleats that serve as tie-down points. You can slide the cleats along the rails to accommodate whatever load you’re carrying.
Strong V6 engine: The trend among midsize trucks has been to nestle a turbocharged 4-cylinder into the engine bay. Not so the Frontier; its 3.8-liter V6 sticks to a tried-and-true formula with plenty of grunt for all manner of work and play.
Audio options: A 10-speaker Fender audio system is optional in the SV, Pro-X, and Pro-4X trims, and standard on the SL. There’s also a Kicker tailgate audio system that’s available with all trims.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Frontier models for sale near you.
2025 GMC Canyon
The GMC Canyon is available in three trims: Elevation, AT4, and Denali. There’s also the AT4X AEV Edition package, which is aimed at more hardcore off-roading. You might have noticed the Canyon’s entry fee is significantly higher than the Frontier. Among midsize pickups, only the Honda Ridgeline’s starting price is higher.
Keep in mind GMC prefers to sidestep more spartan workhorse models and focus on versions with a high degree of comfort, safety, and technology already baked into their design. This means even the standard Canyon Elevation comes with features like wireless smartphone connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote locking tailgate.
Thanks to its turbocharged 2.7-liter 4-cylinder that produces 310 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque, the Canyon boasts excellent towing capability. It has a max rating of 7,700 pounds.
GMC Canyon Highlights
Upscale interior: Step inside the Canyon and you immediately know this is far from a bare-bones work truck. The materials used throughout the cabin look and feel a cut above many competitors, the Frontier included. The posh Denali model comes with a handsome appearance package, perforated leather seating, a Bose audio system, and wood trim.
User-friendly tech: Another plus point is the Canyon’s attractive and user-friendly infotainment system. An 11.3-inch touchscreen is standard and comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also features Google-based voice commands and highly detailed Google Maps navigation.
AT4X AEV Edition: This package, available on the AT4 trim level, is aimed at truck buyers who intend to do serious off-road driving. Its extreme go-anywhere hardware consists of locking front and rear differentials, beadlock-capable mud-terrain tires, Multimatic spool-valve shocks, launch control, and 12.2 inches of ground clearance.
CornerStep bumper, tailgate storage: Clever details like the standard CornerStep rear bumper make accessing the cargo bed much easier. An available waterproof tailgate storage compartment is another smart feature. It’s perfect for storing muddy gear, or securing wallets and smartphones while out adventuring.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Canyon models for sale near you.
Similarities
The Frontier and Canyon compete in the same midsize pickup truck segment and deliver a lot for your money. You can take either of them for adventurous voyages without a paved surface in sight. They’re equally at home in a city or suburban environment, too, where their more manageable size makes them more maneuverable than bulkier full-size alternatives like the Nissan Titan and GMC Sierra.
Specifications
| 2025 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab | 2025 GMC Canyon Crew Cab | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 3.8-liter 6-cylinder | 2.7-liter turbo 4-cylinder |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 2WD |
| Range | N/A | N/A |
| Towing Capacity | 7,040 pounds | 7,700 pounds |
| Payload Capacity | 1,460 pounds | 1,670 pounds |
| Curb Weight | 4,500 pounds | 4,410 pounds |
| Minimum Ground Clearance | 9.3 inches | 9.6 inches |
| 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/23 highway/20 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 | Not rated | 4 stars |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 126 inches | 131 inches |
| Overall Length | 210.2 inches | 213.2 inches |
| Width With Mirrors | 73.0 inches | 84.4 inches |
| Width Without Mirrors | N/A | 72.4 inches |
| Height | 71.8 inches | 79.8 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.
Pricing
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 2025 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab vehicles and New 2025 GMC Canyon 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.
Conclusion
We like the no-nonsense appeal of the Nissan Frontier, not to mention the fact that its price starts many thousands less than the Canyon. Nissan kept the formula familiar and simple when it came to giving the Frontier a (long overdue) redesign a couple of model years ago. The result is a well-mannered truck that’s comfortable, easy to maneuver, and isn’t shy about getting down to hard work.
Yes, the Canyon is pricier, but it’s also the more finely tuned of these two pickups. It has an even higher degree of off-road capability, class-leading towing capacity, and an upscale interior fitted with a state-of-the-art infotainment system. Consider the traits of each to determine which will best meet your needs and budget.