2025 Nissan Frontier vs. Ford Ranger Raptor Towing Capabilities, Compared

2025 Nissan Frontier vs. Ford Ranger Raptor Towing Capabilities, Compared

In the realm of mid-size pickups, the Nissan Frontier and Ford Ranger Raptor are at the top of many buyers’ lists. And for many, towing capacities are an important aspect that they look at when purchasing a truck. For 2025, the Nissan Frontier got a towing upgrade, making it even more attractive in the truck segment.

Our team at Maus Nissan of North Tampa explores how the Frontier stacks up against the Ford Ranger Raptor’s towing capacity with help from our friends at The Fast Lane Truck!

Nissan’s Towing Upgrade

For the 2025 model year, the Nissan Frontier has been upgraded to tow up to 7,150 pounds. It also has new powertrain tuning that includes a new Tow Mode selection. The top-of-the-line Pro-4X off-road model is powered by a 3.8L V6 engine that is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This engine offers 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque.

The Ranger Raptor’s engine is rated at 455 horsepower and 536 lb-ft of torque and is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Even with more horsepower and torque, the Range Raptor’s towing capacity is 5,510 pounds.

Putting Towing Capacity to the Test

Both pickup trucks perform well in towing tests, but the 2025 Nissan Frontier edges out the Ranger Raptor in downhill testing, as the new Tow Mode allows drivers to feel more confident and needs fewer brake applications than the Ranger Raptor in the same test.

Even with a slower acceleration time due to a smaller engine and less torque, the Frontier can still maintain 60 mph uphill without issues.

The Ranger Raptor has an integrated brake controller, which helps when towing large loads, though as stated above, its towing rating is much less than the Frontier at 5,510 pounds.

Bottom line? Both trucks are impressive and do well when put to the test for towing capacity. But if you want an impressive truck that is less expensive than the Ranger Raptor and has more towing capacity, the 2025 Nissan Frontier is the choice for you!

Read More > What’s New in the 2025 Nissan Frontier?

Test Drive the 2025 Nissan Frontier

Ready to put the Nissan Frontier’s towing capacity to the test for yourself? Come visit us at Maus Nissan of North Tampa and we will get you behind the wheel of this rugged off-road fan favorite of a truck. Trust us, get ready to be impressed!

Schedule your test drive at (813) 800-6287 and since you’re here, check out our current inventory of 2025 Nissan Frontiers!