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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  Nissan Frontier Crew Cab - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By okstatecwby - April 10 - 2:00 am

  I recently purchased the Nissan Frontier Crew Cab at a Dealer in Tulsa,OK. I went from a Silverado Ext Cab to this smaller truck. At first I wasnt sure if I could adjust to the size but with the options available on the truck I purchased I was amazed! I thought I would want a automatic which I was accustomed to but when I got the manual it was even better. I enjoy the Frontier because it is very comfortable, sporty, great gas mileage, and makes a great work truck. Even for a commute of 45 mins or more to work the Frontier gets the job done.

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  2008 Nissan Rocks - 2008 Nissan Frontier
  By Love it - April 8 - 9:36 pm

  I had a Toyota Tundra and sold it due to its problems! I looked into Tacoma and Frontier. Frontier is far better truck than Tacoma. Nissan Frontier delivers better gas mileage and technology. I love the size and inside the cabin. Nissan should have fog lights as an option for SE model. I am looking into installing an after market fog lights. So far I have 1000 miles and I will update as time goes by!!

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  The best truck I will ever own. - 2001 Nissan Frontier
  By chrischris70 - April 8 - 7:15 am

  My grandfather bought this truck in 2001 on 9-21, while he was on his only break back in town from helping clean up the 9-11 wreckage. This truck had 127,615 miles on it the day that it was totaled, and it held up very well every mile. Even after a 60 MPH crash it was running (very poorly I mind you, but running none the less) and I was able to drive it off of the road out of danger of further collisions. The wreck was not due to blind spots or and defect with the truck, it was do to the 72 year old woman who had no legal rights to be driving, pulling out in front of me while I was going highway speeds. The truck was always a great, dependable vehicle and I never had any issues with it. The visibility of this tuck, had helped me avoid many accidents. The dynamics of the vehicle allowed me to maneuver it to keep the accident from killing anyone, and I was successful ensring that there were no serious injuries, and the biggest injury being a black eye. The truck always got great gas mileage compared to other vehicles of similar years. I will miss this truck. It was a very reliable truck, and it had good dead start acceleration for if I needed it. I will be looking for another one if I can find one, and will be buying it because I trust and love this truck. I strongly recommend one.

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  Awesome Frontier - 2002 Nissan Frontier
  By FYREGOD - April 3 - 2:20 pm

  I have 2 complaints with my truck. Its averaging below 20 mpg. I previously owned a 99 S-10 V6 that averaged just over 20 mpg. I was really expecting the newer Frontier to be a little over 20, but I average about 18. Half of my 60 daily commute miles are highway. A few months ago I drove 1500 miles to visit family in California and it averaged 19 mpg (averaging 80 mph). I am very impressed with its performance. Shortly after purchase the stereo wont play or eject CDs (err03), but it sounds great still. I am also considering buying a new extended cab Frontier when this one is paid off. Overall Id give it about a 95% satisfactory rating.

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  Frontier Better than expected - 2010 Nissan Frontier
  By YellowRubi - April 1 - 8:40 am

  Purchased for utility and tow vehicle, this LE model performed better than expecting during the first 4000 miles and vacation. Towing it had great power. Space was very good for kids and pets. The handling is very good and responsive. The features are the best. Auto sunroof with self closure keeps you from forgetting. Auto windows full down is a plus. Electric adjust seats make for a great ride on trips. Bed tie downs are a big plus. Mileage on the road with this 4x4 was much better than anticipated. Better than 20 MPG consistently. Very good choice for trips, towing, and general utility.

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  More happy than not.... - 2007 Nissan Frontier
  By h20diver2 - March 31 - 6:13 pm

  So far Ive been more happy than not. There are the little things that everyone else mentions (mpg, blind spot caused by rear seat headrests, console too far back, and poor turning radius). If I had to pick the most annoying issue it would be the poor turning radius. I cant remember the last time Ive made so many 3 point turns. Its irritating but Im adjusting. You just have to plan out your route prior to initiating a turn. On the plus side the power is great, truck is solid and smooth (feels like your going 60 mph when youre actually going 80 mph) and interior comfort is good.

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  Looked @ All The Trucks - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By MyNewFrontier - March 31 - 10:00 am

  I looked @ & studied all the reviews, resell value, and of course price of every truck on the market. I spent 3 monthes before I made this purchase. This truck handles so good, plenty of power & not bad mpg. Most of my driving is city (17 mpg.) If you are looking @ these trucks, spend the xtra money for the automatic. 75 mph w/the auto is about 2600 rpms (3300 in the standard) In my opinion it is the best truck on the market.

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  2008 Froniter SE, 4 Cylinder, Auto - 2008 Nissan Frontier
  By amalik - March 29 - 10:00 pm

  My 08 Frontier SE, Auto, 4 cylinder in Black has great looks, rides high, and gives decent gas mileage. The bed is perfect size for weekend warriors. Love the 265/70R16 tires. They look great on this truck. The plastic interior could use some improvement.

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  Great Truck Except.... - 2007 Nissan Frontier
  By Terry - March 29 - 4:46 am

  I love the drive train and suspension on this truck - it drives like a sports car and is a blast to run the 2.5L 4 banger through the gears. My complaint? I cant find a comfortable position for the drivers seat. The door panel encroaches on my leg space, the front lip of the seat digs into my thighs, and the seat bottom/back is just plain hard. Im now considering options such as a custom seat, upgrade seats from a wrecked SE/LE, or possibly reupholstering. The uncomfortable seats are starting to sour me on an otherwise wonderful truck.

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  mco - 2005 Nissan Frontier
  By mco - March 26 - 12:03 am

  excellent truck. needs more detailing inside. confort and computer panel on le should be more uptodate.