Pros: Strong V6; comfortable ride for a truck; great off-road capability in PRO-4X models
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
Nissan Frontier
CG Says: The 2021 Nissan Frontier is unchanged in anticipation of a redesigned truck for 2022. 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. A 310-hp 3.8-liter V6 paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission is the sole powertrain. The Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Toyota Tacoma easily trump the long-running Frontier simply by the virtue of being newer 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.
Nissan Frontier
| 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: $28,185 S Crew Cab: $29,295 4WD SV Crew Cab, long bed: $33,805 4WD PRO-4X Crew Cab, short bed: $38,885 |
| Base Engine 3.8-liter V6 |
| Horsepower 310 |
| Std. Transmission 9-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 17-18 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 23-24 |
