MIDSIZE PICKUP
Nissan Frontier NISMO
Just like the Xterra, which it shares a platform with, Nissan has wowed us with 33-inch tires, front and rear limited slips, Bilstein shocks and a selectable rear-locking differential. We like the smooth automatic, but prefer the excellent six-speed manual trans where we can enjoy every one of those 265 ponies pouring from the 4.0L DOHC V-6. It'll roast them in First, squeal them in Second, and chirp them in Third. We also considered the Toyota Tacoma TRD, but where the Toyota is isolated and comfy, the Nissan is tactile and tossable. Its engaging nature begs it to be driven hard, making it a joy to drive on the pavement and in the dirt. The Nissan Frontier NISMO is our pick for best midsize truck on the market.
Others Considered: Toyota Tacoma TRD
Specs
Vehicle/model: Nissan Frontier NISMO
Estimated price: $22,100
ENGINE
Type: 4.0L V-6
Horsepower @ rpm: 235 @ 5,600
Torque @ rpm: 284 @ 4,000
EPA city/highway mpg: 15/20
DRIVETRAIN
Transmission: Six-speed manual/five-speed automatic
Transfer case: Part-time two-speed
Transfer case: ratio 2.57:1
Axle ratio: N/A
SUSPENSION
Front: IFS, double-wishbone, stabilizer bar
Rear: Solid axle, leaf springs
WHEELS AND TIRES
Wheels, base: 17x7.5 aluminum alloy
Tires, base: P265/75R16 BFGoodrich Rugged Trail TA
BRAKES
Front: Disc/ABS
Rear: Disc/ABS
DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Wheelbase, in.: 125.9 (crew cab)
Length, in.: 205.5 (crew cab)
Width, in.: 72.8
Height, in.: 73.9
Curb weight, lb.: 4,524
Fuel capacity, gal.: 21
Ground clearance, in.: 10.1
Seating: 5
Towing capacity, lb.: 6,100
1/2-TON PICKUP
Ford F-150 FX4
Possibly the hardest decision of the 10 was in this category. Each nominee has its strengths and weaknesses, and all are well represented in the aftermarket. The staff was evenly split between the respective manufacturers, but in the end, the high number of configurations (engines, cabs, bed lengths), top-notch interior, beefy axles, and coilover suspension edged the F-150 over the highly regarded Dodge Ram and Nissan Titan. A new, more powerful Toyota Tundra is on the horizon, and the General's products are due for an overhaul next year, so look for the competition in this category to only get stiffer.
Others Considered: Dodge Ram 1500, Nissan Titan
Specs
Vehicle/model: Ford F-150 FX4
Estimated price: $31,475
ENGINE
Type: 5.4L Triton V-8
Horsepower @ rpm: 300 @ 5,000
Torque @ rpm: 365 @ 3,750
EPA city/highway mpg: N/A
DRIVETRAIN
Transmission: Four-speed automatic
Transfer case: Part-time two-speed
Transfer case: ratio 2.64:1
Axle ratio: 3.73:1
SUSPENSION
Front: IFS, double wishbone, coilover shocks
Rear: Solid axle, leaf springs
WHEELS AND TIRES
Wheels, base: 17-inch machined aluminum
Tires, base: P275/65Rx18
BRAKES
Front: Disc brakes, ABS
Rear: Disc brakes, ABS
DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Wheelbase, in.: 138.5 (super crew)
Length, in.: 223.8 (super crew)
Width, in.: 78.9
Height, in.: 76
Curb weight, lb.: 5,464
Fuel capacity, gal.: 30
Ground clearance, in.: 8.1
Seating: 6
Towing capacity, lb.: 8,200