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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  2007 crew cab review - 2007 Nissan Frontier
  By sdhk - April 5 - 1:40 pm

  Wanted a four door pickup to get me to work, pick up groceries and occasionally haul a couple of 2x4s or a couple to dinner. Truck is too big and overpowered for my needs, but a compromise and the best overall choice for me compared to a Tacoma, Canyon, Sport Trac. Lots of minor irritations in the interior design, but the Nissan reputation for reliability was a big selling point for me.

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  VERY GOOD TRUCK! - 2003 Nissan Frontier
  By Mr. Mustard - March 27 - 10:00 am

  The 2003 Nissan Frontier my wife and I purchased is quite a value. It is very solidly built, quiet inside, and has the feeling of a much larger truck while driving it. I have been a Toyota fanatic for years, but the Frontier is by far a much improved truck than before and is a greater value than the Tacoma.

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  Oh what a feeling . . . Nissan!!! - 2005 Nissan Frontier
  By madcow_mtn_biker - March 22 - 9:36 pm

  Simply put the 2005 Nissan Frontier is an excellent truck at an even better price. It is far less expensive than a comparable Toyota Tacoma. The new V6 with automatic are a smooth and powerful combo. The frame is solid and the 4WD works great (I just tried it out in a blizzard). The base LE model has all the options most people will ever need. I am 63 and even with the front seat all the way back there is room for me to sit it the backseat. this truck is a tremendous improvement over many other small trucks. Although I havent used the utilitrack system yet it appears to be very well thought out and the adjustable tie downs are perfect for securing cargo. Also, the dealership was the best ive ever dealt with.

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  Unhappy - 2000 Nissan Frontier
  By Graeme - March 22 - 9:30 pm

  Two years ago I moved up to the foot hills of Saramento and ever since it has been overheating. No one has been able to solve it dealer or private machanic. Heavy on gas and has NO power. Body very tinny.

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  Almost 8 years and over 75k miles - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By darmonx - March 19 - 10:41 am

  Never thought Id keep one vehicle for more than four years. Still driving it after almost eight years and still loving it. Just added k&n air filter and upgraded to a magnaflow exhaust which made a significant difference on the daily driving experience (wish Ive done that sooner). Getting 17mpg right now with mixed hwy/city driving. No major engine repairs and still runs pretty smooth. Power conveniences (windows, locks, side mirrors) are all still working. The original CD player system did jam and wont eject at year six so i replaced the whole thing.

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  Exellent style - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By E, Cabral - March 15 - 2:00 am

  I like the 4cyl but , I would like to trade it for a king cab 6cyl without down payment down. I own Three nissans

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  comfortable but sturdy - 2007 Nissan Frontier
  By Steve - March 10 - 10:33 pm

  This truck was the best of all the midsized trucks I drove. It had the smoothest ride. Better than the Tacoma. It seemed to have more power also. During the first highway drive home my wife fell asleep, so that speaks to the comfort both of the ride and of the seats. The 5 speed automatic Transmission shifts smoothly and not too frequently, I believe this is because of the excessive torque of the engine. It does not have to down shift very often. The truck weighs more than the Tacoma this gives a better ride and a stronger truck for less money. If you are wondering How I liked the Ford the Dodge or the Chevy lets just say I bought the Nissan and leave it at that.

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  Surprisingly good - 2008 Nissan Frontier
  By JR - March 8 - 9:40 pm

  Just passed 5000 miles and still impressed. Compared with Tacoma and Tundra (also have a 4Runner that we love) and was stunned by the apparent quality of the truck and great ride. Actually reminds me of a BMW that we used to have-smooth and solid. Economy just ok, about 17 around town and 20 highway. But very fun to drive. Interior is cheaper feeling than Toyotas but more flexible. And the exterior is much more attractive. Just works for me.

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  Great Mid-Size Truck - 2006 Nissan Frontier
  By bassfish - March 8 - 9:16 pm

  Great truck to drive. Ive had to take 2 trips back east and it performed great. 20 mpg on first trip and 21 on the second. Loaded with furniture on second trip. mpg has improved over time, now have 5500 miles on it. Tows great. Has room for 4 adults. I like the ride better then my wifes cadillac (2000 deville).

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  Relize that its a great value - 1999 Nissan Frontier
  By Nissan loyalist - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I am pleased with my truck. It is comfortable and I trust it to start for me every time. It looks good inside and out and I expect it to keep going another 80,000+. I would like more power and little better fuel economy, but overall you cant beat the value!