Nissan Frontier
Nissan Frontier
Nissan Frontier

2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab

Pros: Strong V6; comfortable ride for a truck; great off-road capability in PRO-4X models; extensive selection of models and optional equipment

Cons: Interior materials not as refined as class competitors; cramped, uncomfortable back seat in “King Cab” extended-cab models; tall step-in height on 4WD models

CG Says: The 2018 Nissan Frontier gains a standard rearview camera for all models. Base S models now have standard air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, and Siri voice recognition. There is also a new Midnight Edition package with unique trim. Nissan’s compact pickup is available in “King Cab” extended cab and crew cab versions that seat five passengers. The extended cab has a 6-ft bed, while crew cabs offer both 5-ft and 6-ft beds. The base engine is a 2.5-liter four cylinder with 152 horsepower. A 261-hp 4.0-liter V6 is available on extended-cab trucks and is standard on crew cabs. The 4-cylinder can be ordered with a 5-speed manual transmission, while the V6 is available with a 6-speed manual. Both engines mate to a 5-speed automatic. The redesigned Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, and Toyota Tacoma easily trump the long-running Frontier simply by the virtue of being new designs. Still, Nissan’s compact pickup is laudable for its controlled handling, powerful V6, and off-road-oriented PRO-4X model. The interior offers easy-to-use controls but disappoints with too much plastic and too little rear-seat room, even in the Crew Cab. Check out the competition first, but the Frontier remains a decent choice for those who don’t need or want the bulk of a full-size pickup.

The Facts
Class Compact Pickup Truck
Body Style(s) 2-door extended cab, 4-door crew cab
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels rear-wheel drive, 4-wheel drive
Manufacturer Nissan
Nation of Manufacture USA
Base Prices (only select models listed)
S King Cab: $19,965
Desert Runner King Cab: $26,875
4WD SV Crew Cab, long bed: $33,355
4WD PRO-4X Crew Cab, short bed: $33,715
4WD SL Crew Cab, short bed: $37,375

Base Engine
2.5-liter 4-cylinder (S, SV King Cab)
Horsepower
152
Std. Transmission
5-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
5-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
17-19
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
22-23

Optional Engine
4.0-liter V6 (Desert Runner, PRO-4X, S Crew Cab, SV Crew Cab, SL)
Horsepower
261
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
5-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
15-16
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
21-22

Nissan Frontier
2018 Nissan King Cab
NHTSA Ratings
Overall - NA
0%

(5 is the highest rating)

Front Crash - 3
60%
Side Crash - NA
0%
Rollover - 3
60%

For complete ratings click here.

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