Overview & Reviews

The Nissan Frontier has long been a popular choice with consumers who don't need the greater towing and hauling abilities of a full-size pickup. Since its debut, the Frontier has offered four-cylinder or V6 power in a rugged yet livable package. There have been two long-running Frontier generations thus far. The current truck is bigger and more powerful than the original and could be considered more of a midsize pickup than a compact, but either one should work out well for a broad spectrum of consumers.

Current Nissan Frontier
The latest Nissan Frontier is offered in extended cab (King Cab) and crew-cab body styles. Trim levels include the economical S, the better-appointed SV, the more rugged Pro-4X and the top-of-the-line SL (crew cab only). There is also a Desert Runner package available for RWD models that provides the Bilstein shocks and some tougher styling elements inspired by the 4WD-only Pro-4X.

The extended-cab S and SV trim levels offer a 152-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission as standard. A five-speed automatic is an available option. A robust 4.0-liter V6 making 261 hp is standard on the Pro-4X and all crew cabs. It is also an option on the SV extended cab.

In our reviews of the Nissan Frontier, we've been impressed by its rugged capabilities and easy-to-drive nature. It feels more maneuverable than its boxy styling and workaday purpose would suggest, and the optional V6 engine makes acceleration respectably quick. Downsides include uncomfortable rear seats and the lack of a regular-cab body style. Overall, we highly recommend the Frontier to anyone who needs pickup functionality in a reasonably sized package.

Used Nissan Frontier Models
The current, second-generation Nissan Frontier arrived for the 2005 model year. Compared to the original Frontier, the second-generation model offers bigger dimensions, new styling inside and out and stronger engines.

If you're considering a used Frontier from the current generation, there have been a few changes to look out for. The Desert Runner model and several upgrades like a rearview camera and dual-zone automatic climate control were not available until the 2013 model year. Prior to 2010, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and stability control were optional, so we'd suggest making sure a used Frontier has these important safety items. Prior to 2009, the Frontier's styling was a little different, and the Pro-4X was known as the Nismo off-road package. Nissan added the long-bed version of the Crew Cab model starting in 2007.

The first-generation Nissan Frontier debuted for the 1998 model year. It didn't offer as much muscle or variety as the current model, but as an affordable used truck, it could still be a solid choice. This model was angular and boxy outside and similarly utilitarian inside. Initially, Nissan offered regular cab and extended cab (King Cab) body styles with a 143-hp four-cylinder engine across the board. A 3.3-liter, 170-hp V6 engine became available as an option the following year.

A Crew Cab variant with four regular doors debuted in 2000 and was the first such compact pickup truck on the market. Unfortunately, the Crew Cab's backseat wasn't exactly full-size, nor was its abbreviated bed. Nissan added the Desert Runner trim level in 2000, combining the look of the four-wheel-drive Frontier with two-wheel-drive economy.

In 2001, a face-lift gave the Nissan Frontier a more aggressive look. The fenders wore bolt-on extensions, and the tailgate was more sculpted than that of any truck that came before it. This was also the first year for the supercharged version of the 3.3-liter V6, which produced 210 hp and 246 pound-feet of torque. A long bed and an "Open Sky" top (a huge power-operated fabric sunroof) for the Crew Cab were available in subsequent years.

User Reviews:

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  Basic but Reliable - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By practical buyer - May 20 - 11:47 pm

  I have owned this truck since new and it has been a very reliable vehicle. The acceleration is not very good and the back seats are fairly cramped for the average adult ,but fine for kids. The mpg is also very average. I know some full size truck owners who probably get as good MPG with more space. The rear doors also do not open up wide enough(only about 45 degrees). However, having said all that, this truck has been rock solid in terms of reliability and that is important to most people. The truck is a 5 passenger vehicle and it does have a 6 foot bed. The truck is very good in the snow. Tires, brakes, and basic maintenance like oil changes, air filters, transmission flush, etc are the only things Ive had done. I would say the truck was a very good value for the dollar at the time when bought brand new in 2004 which included the roof rack(which comes in handy), power windows, power door locks, cruise control, bed liner,and cd player. I would not hesitate to buy a used frontier if the previous owner took decent care of it.

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  Former Ranger owner - 2016 Nissan Frontier
  By Tommy - May 20 - 2:28 am

  Having owned many Rangers, (which were very strong tough trucks) the Nissan Frontier is by far the better truck. Very strong frame, very solid riding. The engine, V-6 strong, plenty of torque. The price advantage is excellent. A similar equipped Toyota Tacoma will list for apron $4.000 more.

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  2008 Nissan Frontier Excellent Mid-Size Truck!! - 2008 Nissan Frontier
  By Mark W - May 19 - 6:46 pm

  I bought this 2008 Nissan Frontier LE 4WD CC 6ft bed brand new and recently sold it in 2018 (kept it 10 years). Ive owned Toyotas (1994, 2004) before and I have to say that they are pretty comparable, in terms of performance and reliability. The Nissan had excellent power and decent fuel economy for the 4.0 liter V-6. The low-end torque is fantastic, I was never feeling like it was underpowered. The transmission was very smooth shifting and dependable, no problems whatsoever. The 4wd system, especially with the active electronic limited slip system (which even works in 4WD), worked flawlessly. Whether it was snow, mud, off-road trails, etc. my Frontier handled it like a champ. The combination of its modest size and weight really helped. The design of the Frontier is really well-thought out as well. The Utili-Trak system with the moveable tie-down cleats and optional bed extender were super useful during the 10 years I owned this truck. The comfort and convenience features of the truck were fantastic. Keep in mind, this was a 10 year old truck, so it cant compare to todays trucks that have many more safety, entertainment and creature comforts. But for its timeframe, Nissan did a great job giving us plenty of great features. The only reason I finally sold my Frontier is because my kids (who were little when I bought it back in 2008) grew up and I had to get a full-size crew cab truck. Otherwise, Id still have the Nissan today.

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  Not satisfied - 2002 Nissan Frontier
  By murman - May 18 - 2:00 am

  Hard riding truck. Lots of squeaks and rattles that the dealer has been unable to eliminate.Truck is underpowered and yields poor fuel economy.Cheap interior, especially carpeting and upholstery.

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  frontier - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By loser - May 8 - 10:00 am

  very reliable truck with good power.base model has all the features you would expect and then some. not quite enough leg room in the back seat for adults but plenty for children. much better ride than older model

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  Black Betty - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By Damon - May 7 - 3:00 am

  This is my 5th Nissan and my 2nd Pick up. This build quality is very tight, no squeaks. The gearing is nice for cruising and commuting. A very versatile truck for a dad with a 7 year old boy, an active wife, and 2 big dogs that all love to camp and explore the great state of Texas.

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  Great truck for the money!!! - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By Baba! - May 2 - 10:00 am

  Ive always wanted a small pickup, no need, just greed! you know to haul stuff (Its a guy thing, women dont get it) Just picked it up today for $13,100 with value package, from Girard, New London, CT. PW/PDL,keyless entry, ABS, rear sliding Bedliner, Extender, A/C 5 spd Silver, Exactly want I wanted no less, no more! $13K is a bargain! Toyota, Ford etc dont even come close. Two thumbs up!

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  Great Truck - 2010 Nissan Frontier
  By Ken Porter - May 1 - 1:40 pm

  The first tank of gas averaged 25.2 mpg. The truck rides like a truck which is expected. I use my truck for work and this is the 5th Nissan I have bought. I have never had a problem with service and have never had any major problems with any of the truck I have bought. The only complaint I have is wind noise. The sound proofing could be a little better.

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  Great Truck! - 2007 Nissan Frontier
  By Ashley - May 1 - 7:30 am

  I went from a Land Rover Freelander and to a Nissan Frontier 4WD and feel that I have made an excellent choice. Very surprised by the power for a mid- sized truck, very comfortable and a nice ride.

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  The next generation - 2005 Nissan Frontier
  By zoom - April 17 - 5:46 pm

  I have owned several Nissan products. My last truck was a 98 king cab with a 3.3 v-6. I had a guy come to my house and request to buy it, seeing the next generation truck I agreed. He is completely happy as am I. My Nismo is so much better in every way. I can get over 21 mpg on the hwy, mixed driving around 18.5. The power difference isn even close,this truck will haul, drives great, rides great with 31.5 psi in the tires. In my opinion, and I have owned all domestic vehicles, this is solid satisfaction!