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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  Excellent import , beats any domestic! - 2000 Nissan Frontier
  By Lear - August 28 - 3:20 pm

  As with any of the top-3 Japanese auto makers (Nissan/Toyota/Honda), this Nissan is an excellent quality vehicle. Designed and build with quality materials and engineering for many of use, not just the first 2-5 years, then ragg-out. Very reliable, excellent resale, great mileage. Cant beat it!

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  Weak on power until - 2003 Nissan Frontier
  By theodore popee - August 26 - 11:56 am

  Weak on power untill I adjusted timing up, not so much it pings just before. Still 2.4 engine does not have the power 2.5 altima motor has This truck has style large hauling compasity jump seats behind passenger 24 mpg need to keep rpm up if you want speed steers a little hard with power steering for an old man with open heart,

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  Great truck - 2011 Nissan Frontier
  By mark383 - August 25 - 4:45 pm

  I bought a new 2006 Toyota Tacoma V6 Prerunner and never really liked it. It was way too sensitive to any wind. It took a tight grip on the steering wheel to keep it on the road on a windy day. If it had been windy the day I test drove it, I would never had bought it. The Frontier drives great on windy days and very little wind noise compared to the Tacoma. It rides better, gets better fuel mileage, better transmission and has more power. The only gripe is the interior scratches easily and the turning radius is not as tight as the Tacoma. I went from a truck I hated to a truck I love to drive. That says it all.

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  First Pickup - 2006 Nissan Frontier
  By DEH - August 24 - 1:30 pm

  This is my first pickup and I must say that I am exceptionally pleased with all aspects of this truck. As a previous Nissan owner I have been familiar with the product but again, this was an outstanding value and product.

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  Takes a licking, keeps on ticking! - 1999 Nissan Frontier
  By brownmanintexas - August 22 - 2:00 am

  Truck purchased new in 2-99; traded in a buzzy bouncy crappy 98 regular cab Toyota Tacoma. What an upgrade! I love this truck. It has the 4 cylinder engine; as such acceleration is not comparable to gas guzzling V8s. BUT, go west of Kerr County where a 75 MPH speed limit is common. 85MPH in 5th with 24 MPG is no problem with this high revving 16 valve engine. Engine is exceptionally smooth and quiet at speed. Throw away the OEM Firestones and OEM shocks. Buy 4 Bridgestone AT Revos tires and Gabriel Max-Control shocks. Then, enjoy this inexpensive and extraordinary tough little truck. I do.

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  2004 Nissan SC-6 4D is GREAT - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By trigger557 - August 22 - 2:00 am

  Great TRUCK and highly recommend it. Crew Cab SC-v6 and Long Bed options are the way to go. Love the purchase.

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  Nissan Forever - 2001 Nissan Frontier
  By Tweety12 - August 21 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my truck the first week the new body style hit the dealership. Nissan took a chance with this risky design and won by a mile. I owned a Toyota 4x4 before and thought I loved it until I got my Nissan. I have tested the limits of this truck and it has not failed to meet a challenge yet. The only visits have been for routine maitenance and the service dept has been great. I agree it could have more power without the supercharger since I pull a large boat, but as it is, it steps right up to the plate. I have become Nissans best advertisement. If your are considering a Crew Cab Nissan, dont hesitate.

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  Awesome - 2000 Nissan Frontier
  By JugHaid - August 21 - 10:00 am

  Awesome fun to drive stylish dependable great loooks ergonomic interior cold ac Smiling and driving excellence

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  A Competitive Truck - 2005 Nissan Frontier
  By LW - August 19 - 8:33 am

  I selected Frontier over all other pickups after extensive research. With 2,000 miles on it I have experienced no problems. It handles well and tows a small bass boat without effort. Engine power and torque is more than adequate and fuel economy has met EPA predictions for this model. It is also nice that all its performance is with regular gas. Well worth the price paid. With the large tires I have occasionaly felt feedback in the steering wheel on rough roads.

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  SC V6 Extended Box - GREAT BUY - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By trig55 - August 18 - 10:00 am

  Great truck. Highly recommend it. Gas per mile is a little bad, but for a super charger who cares. I get a lot of people tell me what a great looking truck it is. I opted for the SC Crew Cab with all the options.