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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  Kick Butt Nissan - 2003 Nissan Frontier
  By Jeckyll - February 1 - 10:00 am

  This truck is great. You get the best parts of an SUV, but you still have the convenience of a truck bed. Great towing capacity and the long bed makes it very stable. Back seat is a little cramped, but fine for younger kids, dogs or just storage. I only average about 19 MPG which I think could be a little higher. Funny thing is that it never seems to differ between hwy and city, or even towing my boat.The 3.3 liter is tough and strong, but not quite the pick I was looking for. I wish Nissan offered the 3.5 liter V-6 in the Frontier. I think that would be the icing on top and make this truck absolutely perfect.

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  Thump - 2010 Nissan Frontier
  By ku - January 29 - 7:56 pm

  When taking off from a full stop, there is a noticeable "thump" in this truck. Its almost like the rear end is going to fall out. Internet searches show other Frontier owners have reported the same problem. Internet forums say its axle warp and that a helper spring can fix the condition. Dealer service dept says nothing is wrong. Tired of bringing it back and having nothing done. Arm rest is too short too. Not a good experience with this truck. Had it two months and will be getting rid of it very soon via trade for a more dependable vehicle.

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  3rd review at 18mos of ownership - 2008 Nissan Frontier
  By whilte knight - January 25 - 9:30 am

  After 18 mos, still a great truck and I am very happy with it. No mechanical problems at all. Service at dealership has been great. Just got back from a trip into the Colorado Mtns. and it did great on the steep and winding roads. Plenty of power with the 4cylinder. Got my best gas mileage yet of 27.3 mpg coming down out of the mountains. So far have averaged 24 mpg in 13,000 miles of driving with 90% as highway driving. No towing.

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  Tire trouble - 2010 Nissan Frontier
  By fred w - January 22 - 1:33 pm

  I had the truck for one day and took it back to the dealership for severe vibration with rear tires. The service manager told me this was a problem on some trucks and to come back in 1000 to 1500 miles if I still had the problem. Took it back next day and they changed both rear tires after the computer said they were out of specs.

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  My second Nissan truck - 2006 Nissan Frontier
  By Matt - January 14 - 9:40 am

  This is my second Nissan truck. My first was a 87 1/2 Hardbody and it served me well. It was a basic XE 2wd 5sp. I sold it with 70k miles to a friend who kept it for close to 200k miles. This 06 is lights years ahead of my 87 in every respect. I plan on keeping this 06 for 15 years. I was able to keep my 95 GMC Sonoma 4x4 for 11 years so I the Nissan being a better build vehicle should be able to meet that goal. My 95 was getting 18-19 in mostly city driving and my 06 is doing that with no problem. Considering the 06 is a bigger, heaver truck with more hp(155 for 05 vs 265 for 06)IMHO is pretty impressive in my book. Ride quality is impressive for the 06 compared to my 95.

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  2004 Nissan Frontier XE Crew cab SWB - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By Fabian - January 14 - 4:06 am

  Just bought this truck which had 37,000 miles. Rides a little harsh with off road tires but handles well and looks great. Interior is great, all instruments laid out well. Added a K&N air filter for improved fuel economy. Tows a 6x12 cargo trailer with my 4 wheeler fairly well. I plan on keeping this truck for a long time. looking forward to many years with it!

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  great truck - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By jeramy - January 10 - 10:26 am

  I have had this truck for a year and a half. I looked at the other midsized trucks and could not find a better deal. bought for 19k compaired to 26 or 27 for the others. I have driven in all conditions such as 4 feet of snow, dry roads, and some light off road. Never had a problem with the truck getting me where I want to go. I would buy again if I had the chance.

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  better than most...but not perfect... - 2005 Nissan Frontier
  By qwert - January 5 - 3:46 pm

  The Frontier is a Chryler Roadrunner. A very powerful package surrounded by metal, plastic, and a basic interior that keep the price down. If I sell this vehicle earlier than originally planned, it will be due to lack of front seat comfort.

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  Love my Frontier!! - 2001 Nissan Frontier
  By FrontierLuver - January 4 - 3:53 am

  Ive got 78,000 miles on my baby and I have no complaints whatsoever. Have not had one problem. Have done nothing but regular maintenance. I would highly recommend this truck to anyone looking for a good, solid, reliable little truck.

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  Almost perfect Truck - 2008 Nissan Frontier
  By Little Mac - January 3 - 3:16 am

  This is my 2nd Frontier. First was a 2001 King cab with no place for my little dogs to sit and look out the window. They love the back seat of our new truck! Day after we got our truck we went on a 2000 mile road trip. MPG was 20-25. Best mpg is at 60-65 hwy. It might take you a little longer to get where your going but worth it at the pump. Better ride than my old truck more like a car. Turning radius took some time to get used to, old truck was much better.