Nissan Frontier S vs. SV vs. SL vs. Pro 4x: A Comprehensive Comparison
The 2025 Nissan Frontier is pickup truck type that offers four distinct trims: S vs SV vs SL vs Pro 4x. Each trim provides a unique blend of performance, features, and customization options, catering to a wide range of drivers. We will compare the Frontier S, SV, SL and Pro 4x focusing on key aspects such as horsepower across RPM levels, engine specifications, and more. We’ll also highlight which trim offers the highest horsepower and how they differ in terms of overall performance.
Key Specifications Comparison: Nissan Frontier S vs. SV vs. SL vs. Pro 4x (2025)
| Specification | Nissan Frontier S | Nissan Frontier SV | Nissan Frontier SL | Nissan Frontier Pro-4X |
| Horsepower (Low RPM) | 225 HP @ 2,500 RPM | 235 HP @ 2,500 RPM | 245 HP @ 2,500 RPM | 245 HP @ 2,500 RPM |
| Horsepower (Mid RPM) | 240 HP @ 4,000 RPM | 250 HP @ 4,000 RPM | 260 HP @ 4,000 RPM | 260 HP @ 4,000 RPM |
| Horsepower (High RPM) | 270 HP @ 5,800 RPM | 280 HP @ 5,800 RPM | 310 HP @ 5,800 RPM | 310 HP @ 5,800 RPM |
| Engine Type | 3.8L V6 | 3.8L V6 | 3.8L V6 | 3.8L V6 |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft @ 4,400 RPM | 290 lb-ft @ 4,400 RPM | 300 lb-ft @ 4,400 RPM | 300 lb-ft @ 4,400 RPM |
| Displacement | 3.8 L | 3.8 L | 3.8 L | 3.8 L |
| 0-60 mph Time | 7.4 seconds | 7.2 seconds | 7.0 seconds | 7.0 seconds |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| Weight | 4,300 lbs | 4,400 lbs | 4,500 lbs | 4,600 lbs |
| Fuel Efficiency | 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway | 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway | 18 mpg city / 23 mpg highway | 17 mpg city / 23 mpg highway |
| Material | High-strength steel | High-strength steel | High-strength steel | High-strength steel |
| Chassis | Fully boxed frame | Fully boxed frame | Fully boxed frame | Fully boxed frame |
| Price | Starting at $29,000 | Starting at $33,000 | Starting at $38,000 | Starting at $40,000 |
| Room to Customize | Moderate | Extensive | Extensive | Extensive |
| Doors/Body Style | 4 doors / King Cab, Crew Cab | 4 doors / King Cab, Crew Cab | 4 doors / Crew Cab | 4 doors / Crew Cab |
For more info: 2024 Frontier Brochure; Vehicle Indentification
Performance: Horsepower and Torque
The 2025 Nissan Frontier SL emerges as the most powerful of the four trims, with a maximum horsepower of 310 HP at 5,800 RPM. This high RPM horsepower makes it the ideal choice for drivers who demand strong acceleration and performance during highway driving or towing. The SL also leads in torque, delivering 300 lb-ft at 4,400 RPM, ensuring robust pulling power and responsiveness.
The SV trim follows with 280 HP at 5,800 RPM and 290 lb-ft of torque, offering a balance between power and everyday drivability. The S trim, while still potent, provides 270 HP at high RPM and 281 lb-ft of torque, making it a solid choice for those seeking a capable yet cost-effective option.
While all previously model has high capability, the Pro-4X tailored more for off-road enthusiasts. The Pro-4X offers superior off-road capabilities, with the highest horsepower at 310 HP at 5,800 RPM, compared to the SV’s 280 HP. It’s also quicker to 60 mph and offers more torque, making it the ideal choice for those who prioritize power and off-road performance.
When comparing the 2025 Nissan Frontier SV and Pro-4X, the Pro-4X stands out for its superior performance and off-road capabilities. Both trims feature a 3.8L V6 engine, but the Pro-4X delivers more power at higher RPM levels. The SV produces 235 HP at 2,500 RPM, 250 HP at 4,000 RPM, and peaks at 280 HP at 5,800 RPM. In contrast, the Pro-4X starts with 245 HP at 2,500 RPM, 260 HP at 4,000 RPM, and reaches a maximum of 310 HP at 5,800 RPM, making it the more powerful option.
The Pro-4X also offers higher torque (300 lb-ft vs. 290 lb-ft), faster acceleration (0-60 mph in 7.0 seconds vs. 7.2 seconds), and more rugged build features.
Acceleration and Transmission
When it comes to acceleration, the Frontier SL is the quickest, reaching 0 to 60 mph in just 7.0 seconds. The SV is close behind at 7.2 seconds, and the S trim completes the sprint in 7.4 seconds. All trims are equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission, which ensures smooth shifts and optimizes performance across various driving conditions.
Weight and Fuel Efficiency
The SL trim, being the most feature-rich, is also the heaviest at 4,500 lbs. This weight, however, does not significantly affect its acceleration due to its superior horsepower. Fuel efficiency is fairly consistent across all trims, with the S and SV achieving 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The SL offers slightly lower highway efficiency at 23 mpg due to its higher power output.
While the SV is lighter at 4,400 lbs, the Pro-4X’s heavier build (4,600 lbs) supports its enhanced off-road prowess. Both trims offer extensive customization, but the Pro-4X is priced higher, reflecting its superior capabilities.
Material and Chassis
All three trims share a robust build, with high-strength steel used throughout the body and a fully boxed frame chassis that enhances durability and off-road capability. The materials used ensure that each trim of the Frontier is ready for both work and play.
Customization and Pricing
In terms of customization, the SV and SL trims offer more extensive options, including upgraded interiors, advanced tech features, and exterior enhancements. The S trim, while more basic, still allows for personalization but focuses more on essential features. Pricing starts at $29,000 for the S, $33,000 for the SV, and $38,000 for the SL.
Which Nissan Frontier Trim Should You Choose?
If horsepower and performance are your top priorities, the 2025 Nissan Frontier SL is the clear winner with its 310 HP at maximum RPM, combined with superior torque and acceleration. The SV delivers a substantial medium ride, put in the middle between its energy and attribute, on the contrary the S trim delivers a perfect fresh start inside the Frontier models altogether with strong discharge and worth. For those seeking maximum horsepower and off-road capability, the Pro-4X is the better choice.
Your choice between the S, SV, SL, and Pro 4x trims will depend on your specific needs, whether you prioritize maximum power, a balance of performance and features, or a more budget-friendly option with respectable capabilities.
