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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  Did I buy a lemon? - 2006 Nissan Frontier
  By Cory - June 4 - 5:10 am

  I love my truck but at only 2,500 miles I have towed it once and am on my way to the delearship again this morning. Be aware that many Frontiers appear to have faulty steering columns as mine did (reason for towing) and there may also be some brake issues--my brake warning light is now on and Im back to the dealer. Overall, I do love my truck but I am afraid that I bought a lemon. I should not be having these kinds of problems before the first oil change!!

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  New Review - 2007 Nissan Frontier
  By Truck Driver - May 31 - 11:23 am

  I owned a 1994 Nissan pickup and decided it was time to update. The Nissan is a dream to drive, and the 4 cyl provides enough power and fuel economy to boot. The economics proved in favor of the Nissan with getting the preferred, power, bed liner packages for $1000 less than a lesser equipped Tacoma. A very satisfied return Nissan owner.

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  GREAT LOOKING,BUILT & DRIVE LIKE A TRUCK - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By Joe Zee - May 30 - 1:40 pm

  Was disappointed by performance on highway, like an old lady, minus pep pills, but slow and sure, will not suggest a speedster to own this auto, built like a truck and drive like a tank, using as much gas to reach a destination,

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  BEST I EVER HAD - 2003 Nissan Frontier
  By BALDEV - May 30 - 2:00 am

  NISSAN FRONTIER IS EXCELLENT...LIKE ALL NISSAN PRODUCT ...EXCITING,FUN AND BEST VALUE

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  great truck - 2001 Nissan Frontier
  By Tony Eberhardy - May 29 - 11:43 pm

  I bought my truck used 10/05. I love this truck and plan on buying another one like it whent the time comes. It has good power, great looks, and is very reliable. The only drawback is the gas mileage, I get about 18 miles a gallon.

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  Great Value - 1998 Nissan Frontier
  By Ricochet - May 25 - 2:00 am

  A very good value. I bought the truck with 20000 miles on it and it is now above 90000. I have yet to have a single problem with it. Being a teenager, it is almost impossible to describe the abuse Ive put the truck through and it takes it all without complaint. Very sturdy truck.

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  The Zen of Trucks 2 - 2002 Nissan Frontier
  By Fontier Zen - May 25 - 2:00 am

  Its been almost 2 years and Im still loving this truck. Its by far the best vehicle Ive ever had. The style and preformance cannot be match by any of the other small trucks on the market. I would still recommend this truck to anyone. Just be sure to get the long bed. Dont waste your time on the short bed.

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  GO FRONTIER! - 2002 Nissan Frontier
  By gotmilk - May 25 - 2:00 am

  Overall, I really like my Frontier. Its great for short trips in town or long vacation trips. The crew cab works out great for small to medium size children. I highly recommend the crew cab. It hauls kids, groceries, and a full load in the cargo bed. Would I buy another Frontier? YES!

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  this truck rocks - 2001 Nissan Frontier
  By nissanman - May 13 - 10:00 am

  I looked at Toyota,Dodge,and Nissan Crew Cabs and the Nissan impressed the most based on overall feature and performance value.I was a little disappointed in the mileage at first,but with a cat back exhaust system,open air filter,and throttle body spacer plate the performance and mileage were greatly improved.And best of all,all mods.cost less than $500.00.Ive owned several Nissans over the years and will continue to buy them as long as they keep up the great quality and value tradition.

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  I love my new nissan! - 2010 Nissan Frontier
  By kirjam - May 12 - 6:20 am

  I have owned this truck little less than 3 months. I can not rave enough about it, we are a Nissan family and I would never think twice about any other product. I love everything this truck has to offer. Would recommend this truck to everyone!