The new 2023 Nissan Frontier Review and Specifications
Overview
The boxy Nissan Frontier, inspired by the original 1980s Nissan Hardbody compact pickup, is newer than its mid-size pickup competition but gives off more of an old-school truck vibe.
All Frontiers come with a 310-hp V-6 engine and nine-speed automatic transmission, which can be rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The Frontier is available as an extended King Cab or in four-door crew cab style; bed lengths are either 5.0 feet or 6.0 feet long. With choices ranging from a powerful base Frontier S work truck to a Pro4X offroad vehicle with Bilstein dampers and skid plates, the Nissan mid size pickup remains a good value for potential buyers.
Although it won’t tow as much as the Toyota Tacoma, the Frontier's thick selection of standard safety features and LED lighting give it some competitive edge in the modern truck marketplace.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Frontier comes with Nissan's new V-6 engine that was first seen on the 2020 model. This 3.8-liter, naturally aspirated engine can generate up to 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque. It has a nine-speed automatic transmission and is available in either rear or four wheel drive.
Our first test drive of the Frontier displayed that the truck's V-6 engine provides enough power and operates smoothly. The Pro-4X model, designed for off-road use, can take on rough terrain; although not as well as the Jeep Gladiator. We were also happy with Nissan's new quicker steering and how it handles other chassis improvements which make the truck feel more refined while driving.
Towing and Payload Capacity
Although the Frontier's towing capacity is 6720 pounds, it falls short of its rivals', such as the Chevy Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Jeep Gladiator- all capable of pulling at least 7650 pounds. The Nissan has a maximum payload of 1610 pounds.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The rear-drive Frontier's fuel efficiency is 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on highways. However, with four-wheel drive enabled, those numbers fallen to 17 mpg for cities and 22 mpg for highways. Our extensive testing regimen includes a 75-mph highway route, which a 2022 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X completed 20mpg on average. For more information about the Frontier's fuel economy, please visit the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The 2023 Frontier's interior design features more contemporary elements, such as a larger 7.0-inch color display offsetting the analog gauges in the gauge cluster. In addition, Nissan has added snazzier trim pieces and soft-touch surfaces throughout the cabin, giving it a much needed facelift compared to its predecessor which was plagued by an outdated and plastic-laden cabin.
The Frontier offers a heated steering wheel and front seats to add an extra level of comfort. The truck also features Nissan's comfortable Zero Gravity seats. Interior storage options include a compartment on top of the dashboard and under the back seat. The Frontier is available in two different wheelbase lengths, each providing a short or long cargo bed.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The new Frontier's infotainment system operates through a standard 8.0-inch or optional 9.0-inch touchscreen located in the center console, below which are physical knobs for adjusting the stereo's volume and tuning settings . The most desirable standard connectivity features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto , and several charging outlets, including a USB-C port. The Frontier can also be had with a subscription -based WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone charging . Additionally , the sound system can be upgraded to a nine - speaker Fender unit for an additional cost .
Is the Nissan Frontier reliable?
“The Nissan Frontier Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 1st out of 7 for midsize trucks. The average annual repair cost is $470 which means it has lower than average ownership costs.
Is Nissan Frontier as good as Toyota Tacoma?
Our Verdict. Nissan greatly improved the Frontier for the 2022 model year. While the pickup truck isn't the best option in the class, it's a better choice than the Tacoma. It offers nearly the same towing capacity, a more powerful V6 engine that's standard, more tech features, and more spacious back seats.
