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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  Best Truck 2008 for Your Money - 2008 Nissan Frontier
  By Cuba - November 29 - 4:13 am

  I looked around for about 3 months for a truck (toyota, dodge, chevy, honda). My buddy was the one who took me to check out the frontier. I didnt like the 07 model, because of the roof-rack it had (UGLY). Its a truck, it dont need a roof-rack. When I saw the 08 which I got (no roof-rack), and test drove it, I fell in love with it. I got a great deal on it. This truck gets great gas mileage for a 4.0, handles and takes turns like a car, has a smooth ride, lots of elbow & head room. The outside looks tough, but at the same time sleek. Got lots of goodies for the bed also.

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  08 Frontier king cab - 2008 Nissan Frontier
  By steve - November 26 - 10:36 am

  Great mid-size with plenty of interior space.

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  a miata with a truck bed attached! - 2001 Nissan Frontier
  By bpm - November 23 - 2:00 am

  This is a great truck. I have not had any problems. It is fast, fun to drive and handles great. the seats are very comfortable and the cd changer is really good. The only dislike so far is a few minor squeaks and rattles and the premium fuel requirement for the supercharger will cost you!

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  Fun little truck - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By DesertDawg - November 21 - 10:00 am

  I have been a nissan fan for years, but if you are looking for more horsepower, hold off until 2005. If you want good fuel economy and need a truck, 2004 is the model year to get. Do research on edmunds and get a good price before you go to buy and do not be afraid to stand up for the value of your trade in.

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  Best Truck I Ever Owned - 2006 Nissan Frontier
  By Midhudson - November 13 - 4:33 pm

  At 38K miles it looks and drives as it did the day I drove out of the dealerships parking lot. Added fog lamps. Wish I could get the NISMO crew cab with the 6-speed. I own the SE because they dont sell it that way. Nothings needed repair, ever. I just use 91 octane gas and it does anything I ask. That engine is amazing, and the trans is silky smooth.

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  Stylish, economical pickup - 2001 Nissan Frontier
  By usaf52 - November 9 - 10:43 pm

  Initially bought the truck because I liked the styling & it received excellent reviews from auto critics. Have not had one complaint or any trouble in 13K of driving.

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  First time Nissan owner - 2005 Nissan Frontier
  By Jeffro - November 3 - 11:06 pm

  Wanted a mid-size truck and have always purchased from the big 3 auto- makers. The Nissan and Toyota stood out from the big 3. Went with the Nissan Frontier based on re-disgn similiar to the Titan. I could not be happier. The truck is great, comfort, room, features, ride, it has it all. I have purchased the sliding bed extender and the cargo space is very usable, (the design thought on the bed is great, spray on bed liner, c- channels and cargo straps are all standard). The power on this truck is hard to beat. Yes, it is a heavy "mid- size" truck, but you will not notice when you step on the gas. You will not be disappointed with the 2005 Nissan Frontier.

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  Solid Reliable and a great value - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By k374 - November 2 - 8:06 am

  Ive owned my 04 for 4 years now. Just got done with a 1500 mile trip to Lake Tahoe and not a single problem, fuel economy average was 26.95 mpg!!! Its true that it lacks power but just use the lower gears and you will be just fine! I have towed 2000 lbs regularly without issues. As far as reliability goes, it is GOLD, I havent had a single problem so far. In the last 4 years and 55,000 miles I only had a flat tire once!! For the money you cant get anything better in the entry level compact truck segment.

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  Lovin it - 2003 Nissan Frontier
  By LWUANG - October 31 - 10:00 am

  wonderful truck, first and certainly not the last nissan truck. gets looks all the time.

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  Needs to Improve comfort for Americans ! - 2003 Nissan Frontier
  By captmark - October 31 - 10:00 am

  I just bought my Frontier about a week ago. Its a nice truck on the outside! I didnt realize that its not too big inside,when I was looking at it. I am 60 and have long legs, if my seat is back far, then no one can sit in the back of me. Also, the arm rest is very short! Theres not enough compartments in the interior for stuff,not even a coin holder~! I had to buy one at Pepboys. I have to buy accessories in Auto stores to improve the comfort in this vehicle. American vehicles are made for owners to feel comfortable. I guess I am spoiled from my old American 1996 Chevy Blazer LT that was loaded to the Max!