Choices for a midsize pickup truck have been shrinking in recent years, but the Nissan Frontier carries on as a strong, work-ready contender. Though relatively small for this group, the Frontier stands tall on capabilities.
Available with two-or four-wheel drive, and a four- or six-cylinder engine, the Frontier has a lot to offer pickup fanciers who favor a truck that delivers plenty of substance and flavor, but little fat.
What's New for 2016
Updates are minor for 2016, led by a moonroof added to SV Crew Cab models. Three new exterior colors are offered: Forged Copper, Magnetic Black, and Gun Metallic.
Choosing Your Nissan Frontier
The Frontier is offered in two body styles, King Cab and four-door Crew Cab, and in five trim levels: S, SV, PRO-4X, Desert Runner and SL.
It comes with either a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, rated 152 horsepower, or a 4-liter V6 that makes 261 horsepower. Engine availability varies between two- or four-wheel drive, and by trim level. Fuel-economy estimates range from 19/23 mpg city/highway with the four-cylinder, manual shift and front-drive, down to 15/21 mpg with V6, automatic, and four-wheel drive.
Crew Cab SV and SL models come on a long or short wheelbase, with long or standard-length cargo bed.
Facing all those choices, you're probably going to pick a V6-equipped model. In addition, it's hard to pass up a 4x4 because of its greater capabilities, jacked-up suspension, and more rugged looks. Then again, a nicely optioned SV Frontier could make the most financial sense, compared against full-size pickup trucks that are often heavily discounted.