Why is the Nissan Frontier not more popular?
Posted by ohwell_______@reddit | cars | View on Reddit | 397 comments
My time with my old taliban-spec Tacoma work truck is finally at an end, I've decided I could use some power windows and maybe a truck with some clear coat on it for once.
I am the typical r/cars user. I want my trucks in brown, used from the factory, manual, single cab long bed etc (My old Tacoma is this subreddit's dream truck). I'm not a big fan of super advanced tech which adds complexity. I made the call to put my money where my mouth is and buy a 2025 Nissan Frontier Pro4x.
It's been about 5 months with this truck so far and I absolutely love it. I think this is as close to an old school truck as we are ever getting these days.
It has all the tech I actually want, but nothing I don't. It's got power windows, good AC + heated seats and steering, a screen for Carplay, and adaptive cruise control. The shifter is a normal shifter, no knobs, no electronic gadgetry just an old school shifter you can slam into gear. I don't need to interact with the screen to change the volume or AC, the car never tries to take control of the steering wheel and send me into the cyclist I'm trying to avoid. It doesn't beep at me if I drive a bit over the speed limit
It uses proven and reliable tech. The body of this generation is new, but the frame is the same thing Nissans been making since 2005. The VQ 6 cylinder (not a turbo 4!) is ancient. No CVTs, this has a 9 speed auto. It even has hydraulic steering, which is a very pleasant surprise.
Best of all, I bought it for $40k. Which while expensive is not that bad when you consider you can spec a Tacoma up to $70k these days.
I'm very surprised that these are rotting away on dealer lots. Why aren't these more popular?
lucidwray@reddit
Because it’s going to fall apart in 4 years and that Tacoma will still be driving when you die. When was the last time you saw a 15yo Nissan pickup on the road?
sfear70@reddit
You literally do not know what you're talking about.
Jack_of_MostTrades@reddit
Any time I look in the driveway, and it's 21 years old, not 15.....no issues, only normal maintenance items (ignition components, brakes, and fluid changes).
mbaran@reddit
Daily? Old frontiers are like cockroaches.
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
Fuck, I see 30+ year old hardbodies running around on a regular basis in Arizona.
ChaLenCe@reddit
My first truck was a Nissan that went to 220k miles. My second was an Xterra I sold at 185k. Not sure where you pull your data from but it’s probably your ass.
jerpear@reddit
The Toyota reliably is justified to a degree but also reinforced by resale value.
Because a 10 year old Taco is still an expensive car, people will service and look after it, keep it in shape and that makes it more reliable and reinforces the perception.
By contrast, Frontier owners seem to think their engine oil is sealed for life.
ohwell_______@reddit (OP)
It's hard to tell, a 20 year old Frontier looks the same as a 4 year old one. But I do see quite a few Xterras and old Frontiers on the road still.
Honestly I think the Frontier platform is so outdated, it's entirely skipped the changes that tanked Nissan's rep in the last decade or so. I had an infiniti G35 long ago, that engine never gave me any problems and it's pretty much the same thing that's in the Frontier today.
DopamineQuest@reddit
yesterday, but it was more like 25 yrs old lol
Barson_Crandt@reddit
Uh… all the time? For as shitty as Nissan’s cars have gotten over the years their body on frame vehicles have remained fairly solid. “It’s going to fall apart in 4 years” is a gross exaggeration and I’m not even sure where you got that impression.
Bosfordjd@reddit
Literally everyday lol.
That's not counting the 2007 I drive everyday.
OptimalFunction@reddit
All the damn time in LA. Gardeners have them and carry all their equipment in the bed
Astramael@reddit
No manual in North America.
Not as good as a Hilux everywhere else.
whitevwjetta@reddit
what for the audience of 17 people looking for a new manual truck?
spongebob_meth@reddit
I mean, Toyota is selling every one they build and they are usually sold before they hit the lot.
It took me a long time to find mine. There are wait-lists for manuals at every dealer in my area.
Nissan would have definitely taken my sale if they still offered manuals.
N0Name117@reddit
Yours and virtually nobody else. You're using an anecdote to try and justify a company invest millions developing a manual when the overwhelming majority of sales of trucks (including the Tacoma) are autos. This has been the case going well back before the turn of the century.
spongebob_meth@reddit
I don't understand why people on here celebrate the loss of having a choice.
I think you underestimate the demand for manual trucks and overestimate development costs.
N0Name117@reddit
Because that choice is inevitably a cost on the manufacturer which would take away funds that could go into other choices. Choices that might do something other than stroke the ego of the handful of truck buyers that want a manual transmission.
If anything I’m overestimating the demand here. Since a manual in a truck is an even less practical option that a manual in a sports car.
spongebob_meth@reddit
So these 17 buyers are creating wait-lists at my Toyota dealers? They're the ones buying every manual truck before it arrives on the lot? These 17 buyers are the reason a manual trick is 20-40% more expensive (depending on model) in the used market?
You're blinded by your bias.
N0Name117@reddit
17 buyers do not justify the millions of R and D to develop it bud. It’s entirely believable that there are 17 people that want to stroke their ego by buying a manual taco. That doesn’t mean there’s millions more that do.
also you should work on your reading comprehension. Never said truck was less practical than a sports car. Said a manual in one makes less sense. But I guess that’s what I get for expecting even a modicum of rationality on this site.
spongebob_meth@reddit
They have already sold tens of thousands of them. Why should i take anything you write seriously?
This is another laughably incorrect number you pulled out of your ass. My truck uses the same transmission as the Hilux sold elsewhere. It doesn't cost Toyota "millions" to bolt it to a gas engine and develop an ECU configuration for it.
The whole truck cost "millions" to develop. Not the fucking transmission.
N0Name117@reddit
Toyota sold 192k Tacomas last year. 7k is less than 1% bud. That's not a flex. That's a failure.
Yes, the R and D cost alone will be in the millions once Toyota gets it through regulatory compliance, figures out logistics at the plant to build the damn thing, tunes the transmission, etc. There's a reason more an more automakers are reducing configurations and options to simplify production. Shit adds up quick.
I own more manual vehicles than auto's right now. I'm just not deluded about their efficacy in the market.
spongebob_meth@reddit
They have been selling ~2% manuals. Again selling every one they build and there is a waiting line.
I guess i pulled the wrong numbers, so they have sold about double that in 2024 alone.
They self certify. They can spend as little as they want if they have no fear of being audited.
Again, the number you're pulling out of your ass is in line with what the entire truck costs to engineer.
N0Name117@reddit
Even 2% is a failure and enough to justify axing the entire concept. Especially given a good chunk of those 2% will also buy a auto tacoma. So at worst Toyota would lose out on maybe half a percent of sales.
No millions is still the accurate figure. This is not a political sub and I have no interest in commenting on the current admin. It's largely irrelevant to Toyota anyway since they're well aware the policy and procedures have to be designed for whoever is in office. Which means they still have to comply with what they expect the rules to be in the future and regulatory rules in various states. They also open themselves up to potential lawsuits. You also conveniently ignored the logistical complexity and costs involved in a different transmission.
Finally, you've still yet to actually justify the point of even having a manual in the truck other than to stroke your own ego.
spongebob_meth@reddit
Toyota sells more manual Tacomas than some models in their entirety.
They obviously have people doing marketing research to make these decisions.
Many auto buyers would have bought manuals if they were on lots.
Citation needed.
Easily offset by the fact that it's a much cheaper transmission to build. The manual is even still cheaper than the auto.
Talking out of your ass.
N0Name117@reddit
The only thing Toyota is selling more manual tacos then is supercars or ultra high end luxury vehicles. 7k is pitiful sales for a mainstream vehicle.
The vast majority of auto buyers don't have any interest in a manual. You need only look at the last 40 years of truck sales to figure that out.
But hey, if you want to ignore reality, be my guest. I guess it's pretty well established reality and this sub don't exactly go together and like most users here, you'd rather delude yourself about a pipe dream vehicle than bother to understand the market.
spongebob_meth@reddit
Toyota sells more manual Tacomas than Mazda does miatas. Which are their own platform with its own engine and two different transmissions.
By your logic, this would bankrupt Mazda. But yet the miata remains profitable. It's not a cash cow, but the program isn't in the red either.
Take it up with Toyota. Apparently they're stupid and you're smart.
N0Name117@reddit
And miata sales are in the gutter right now. TBH, wouldn't be surprised if it was a car on which Mazda just manages to break even in the long run and it's certainly not a money maker like trucks are.
I agree, that's also a odd decision and one that's undoubtedly costing them on the logistics and production side of things. I highly doubt they're seeing a meaningful monetary return from that decision just like the manual is probably not generating enough money to justify it's existence.
Drzhivago138@reddit
Are there even any markets that sell both the NA Frontier and the global Hilux? I know there are some places where the global Navara is sold under the Frontier name.
Astramael@reddit
Don’t think so. NP300 is technically the umbrella product. Although my understanding is that the NA Frontier is a bit different.
DodgerBlueRobert1@reddit
In all fairness, no pickup truck sold in America has a CVT.
degggendorf@reddit
One does, depending on how you define "pickup truck"
HeavyCanuck@reddit
And how you define "CVT" (eCVTs have nothing in common with belt driven CVTs)
degggendorf@reddit
I define CVT like everyone else...Continuously Variable Transmission.
The Maverick has a CVT, just like my old Insight had a CVT. They have radically different designs, but they're still both CVTs.
pdp10@reddit
The hybrid Maverick has a planetary, which isn't a belt CVT at all but is marketed to the general public as an "eCVT". The non-hybrid Maverick has a conventional automatic.
degggendorf@reddit
Yes I know
ohwell_______@reddit (OP)
A lot of people associate Nissan with their rather poor CVTs, which is why I mention it
DodgerBlueRobert1@reddit
Sure, but the way you worded it made it sound like a positive for it having a 9-speed instead of a CVT, as if some trucks out there used a CVT. But I gotcha.
deleted_by_reddit@reddit
[removed]
trackdaybruh@reddit
Isn’t VQ ancient too?
saturnuranusmars@reddit
The VQ is man's gift to mankind
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
In a good way. They're basically bulletproof at this point, but they were far enough ahead of their time when they came out, that Nissan's been able to do relatively simple updates to keep them up to date.
The only major update for the VQ38 from the VQ40 is direct injection.
NeatlyCritical@reddit
Yes but a) they keep it pretty updated, and one of the best v6's ever made is still a really good v6
SweepsAndBeeps@reddit
They drink oil at high miles. I’ll keep my 2GR’s
IEnjoyItalianCars@reddit
I have both and both are great. Both have Achilles heels certain years but both are awesome. Funny enough my 2GR is leaking oil right now…
SweepsAndBeeps@reddit
Timing chain cover? From what I’ve heard it’s a once every 15 years kind of fix, but you gotta pull the motor out
IEnjoyItalianCars@reddit
No thankfully it’s not that it’s the valve cover gasket but you gotta take the intake manifold off and other things to replace it so I’m procrastinating since it’s leaking ever so slowly
SweepsAndBeeps@reddit
Agree both motors are great. I’m being cheeky saying mean things about VQ’s
teakwoodtile@reddit
2GR in my Rav blew 2 headgaskets at 110000 kms :)
Muat've been an anomally but man, pure disappointment.
SweepsAndBeeps@reddit
Yeah that’s not normal. That’s like, break-in period for that motor still lol
I_Only_Post_NEAT@reddit
You say this like the 2gr isnt a thing
IEnjoyItalianCars@reddit
I own both, both are great but both have an Achilles heel in certain years. 2GR feels more torquey but the VQ revs higher and is waaaay sportier. Just depends on what a person needs from a car
c0sm0nautt@reddit
I'd still take a Honda J.
accordinglyryan@reddit
I've found my people
djfakey@reddit
J35 with VTEC in my Ridgeline makes it pretty fun to drive. Has some pep and sounds really good.
Sad the updated J35 lost its VTEC. It went DOHC but I believe it’s a tad slower overall too.
c0sm0nautt@reddit
I've got the VTEC one in my 2022 Passport. Really nice sounding motor. I have to redline it at least once a week.
twiggymac@reddit
The Lord's modur
8P69SYKUAGeGjgq@reddit
As someone who lives across the street from a waste of sperm with a straight-piped Infiniti, I am going to heavily disagree.
mk2_dad@reddit
VR6 will always be #1 for me lol
stakoverflo@reddit
If it ain't broke...
hehechibby@reddit
VQ38DD and the previous VQ40DE are all the way from 2005, basically similar to Toyota's 2GR v6
Xaendeau@reddit
Eh, Toyota updated their engine lineup in the last few years. The M20 engines are fantastic. The V35A has some issues with production up to scale in the Tundra but the rest of them are good, modern motors.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Dynamic_Force_engine
NeatlyCritical@reddit
The A25 is one the noisiest engines of all time.
Xaendeau@reddit
That's an exaggeration. A Toyota Camry and a RAV4 are not the...pinnacle of luxury experience, sure. It's a functional machine that's reliable and gets good fuel economy.
Mazda has better sound deadening and harmonics reduction because they're trying to sell their products upmarket. Doing a pretty good job at it too. It's the chassis more often than the engine.
DALESR4EVER124@reddit
It is not. There are few modern cars that are noisy under regular or hard acceleration than a RAV4 with that engine.
Source: Current Toyota shop employee and former shuttle driver, for which we used a RAV4, lol.
capracan@reddit
Currently have both a Rav4 and CRV. Love them both. The Rav engine is way noisier, inside the cabin at least.
NeatlyCritical@reddit
I test drove every single compact suv, the Rav4 was the noisiest. It's not the noisiest car ever, but it is a racket under any moderate to hard acceleration, yeah if you drive 30 mph or less all day it's fine, but it's unacceptable in a car that sells 1.6 million a year.
ohnosevyn@reddit
Also very leaky
spongebob_meth@reddit
The t24a in my Tacoma sounds like a blender full of rocks when the DI is at full song. Im used to it now, but when I first bought it I was cringing every time it came onto boost
SHHHeng@reddit
I borrowed my friend 2023 Tacoma, and I was shocked because the engine noises when starting and during acceleration and down shift from 6th gear to 5th gear was unpleasant.
luke10050@reddit
I dunno man, go listen to an Isuzu 4J series engine.
campbellsimpson@reddit
I only like my Dynamic Force in three cylinders.
baummer@reddit
Toyota is no longer what they were but yes people still mindlessly buy them
Dan_TheGreat@reddit
I was pretty hesitant about the i4 turbo over the v6. And was surprised at this change when i actually started looking at getting one. But the motor is in something like a dozen cars across toyota/lexus in either a turbo or hybrid setup. And there are no widespread catastrophic failures happening. on top of that toyotas hybrid tech is one of it not the best around. Its about as "widespread" as any other random issue with any other car. Ill drive the piss out of it though and if it blows ill let ya know lol The new trans seems to have some sporadic issues. but nothing more than the 3rd gen had with their trans.
deleted_by_reddit@reddit
[removed]
man__i__love__frogs@reddit
The VQ started back in the 90s, it was just in the Frontier since 05. It was in the Pathfinder since 01.
man__i__love__frogs@reddit
The VQ dates back a lot longer than that, when I was a kid we had a 93 Pathfinder and 00 Pathfinder with a VQ.
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mustangfan12@reddit
The Titan uses the VK56 and its a pretty powerful V8
campbellsimpson@reddit
The VK44/56 design was based on the VQ, interestingly enough. I can't think of many V8s in history that were born from V6s, and not the other way round.
1988rx7T2@reddit
It’s because high volume V8s were made first by American companies, basically starting with the flathead V8 that Henry Ford developed. Japanese automakers didn’t go to V6s until the 1980s when the power density and balance were a lot better.
twiggymac@reddit
Allegedly the Honda V8 outboards are based on J series V6s, just no road applications
mustangfan12@reddit
Wow I didn't know that. Ive driven a rental QX80 and it was very powerful for a full size SUV
NeatlyCritical@reddit
The Titan is no longer made.
jiggajawn@reddit
TIL
That's wild
Noobasdfjkl@reddit
The T24 turbo 4 has been very reliable for >5 years. Not sure what your talking about when they’ve had some isolated issues with 1 engine.
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DereLickenMyBalls@reddit
Because Nissan does not have the greatest reputation for build quality. We call them the dodge of Japan lol
Protholl@reddit
Nissan and clear coat always get divorced in 5-7 years... Well first there's the separation but you get the drift.
spongebob_meth@reddit
Tacomas do the same thing
saturnuranusmars@reddit
This. I see so many newer Tacomas with faded paint that my mind just associates it as a norm now.
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
Same. So many 2nd and 3rd gen Tacos running around in Arizona that look like they lost a fight with a sandblaster.
xarune@reddit
My neighbor's blac 3rd gen (so 2016+) definitely needs the hood repainted, think he moved up here from SoCal.
My white one didn't fade. But I eventually got the chipping paint around the windows which has been an issue for like 20 years on the white ones. They released an annoucement of a repair program and did nothing for two years before I sold it.
saturnuranusmars@reddit
Yeah I see new Toyota's with faded paint left and right. Shocked me at first but I guess that's the norm now
Jack_of_MostTrades@reddit
I dunno......the 2004 Frontier ( black) I bought is still intact, as is the 2016 (white) The 2017 Titan is still holding fine as well (also white).
svtguy88@reddit
I think it depends on your environment. My 20 year old Xterra still wears all of its clear coat. It has, however, lost a substantial amount of mass to corrosion.
Deadlight44@reddit
The white has been peeling off my 03 pathfinder for years. White is a hard color for alot of manufacturers
alex053@reddit
I’ve had a Titan that I kept for 230k miles, a murano, a 2014 pathfinder and now a 2022 pathfinder and never had any paint issues and I’m in AZ
CumquatJenkins@reddit
That’s happening with my 2014 Frontier. The paint on the hood has finally worn through and I’ve got a nice bald spot near the windshield. It’s pretty dull everywhere else. I’m not complaining, though. It’s at 150K miles and has been trouble free this entire time.
sl33ksnypr@reddit
It really depends on the color. I feel like the silver and white Nissans hold up a lot better than the darker colors. That's just from what I've seen with my own cars and working at a dealership.
Plaineswalker@reddit
I used to work in automotive paint sales and I was told that silver, white and yellow will last the longest because they have to build a thicker film due to opacity issues. So lighter colors have thicker paint built on top of the e-coat.
sl33ksnypr@reddit
That makes sense. I would think them being more reflective than darker colors definitely helps too.
saturnuranusmars@reddit
And how exactly would you, a single person, know that?
BannedMyName@reddit
Frontiers don't have jatco CVTs
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
The Frontier has never had a CVT, period. It's always been either a 4, 5, or 6 speed manual, or a 4, 5, or 9 speed automatic.
Fun_Driver_5566@reddit
The Frontier is like the one good vehicle Nissan makes. At the $40k OP paid it's the best value for money by far, though it's more comparable to a TRD OR which is ~$55ish than the $70k TRD Pro he's bringing up.
If I were buying a new midsize truck today it'd probably be the Frontier. As far as I can tell, it's missing three things from the Tacoma: No Toyota logo, no absurdly low depreciation, and limited aftermarket goodies.
TrippyVision@reddit
For off-road trims the Frontier is still missing things like crawl control and terrain select, of which I've probably used 2 or 3 times on my Tacoma just to try lol
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
The Frontier offroad just seems to take the "here's a hammer, just smash your way through" approach. Throw it in 4-Lo, lock the rear diff, and let the traction control logic work its way through from there.
They do have hill descent control though.
Luckily, the only known semi-weak point on the Frontier when offroad is the R180 front diff, which is beefed up from the D40 at least. I've only heard of one of them failing in with the new VQ38+9AT combo since they upped the spline count. And if you're really concerned with it, an M205 out of a Titan is a bolt-in replacement once you regear, with an OEM axle option as well, thanks to the V8 Pathfinders Nissan made from 2008-2012. And after that, it's probably tie rods, which there's full heim setups for available from CJD Racing.
tablepennywad@reddit
My friend got a base frontier after trying out the Tacoma. That 4 banger is pretty buzzy and just feels a bit lathargic compared to the v6. Nissan v6s are pretty legendary with the VQ6 being legit scarey fast back when the G35/350Z came out. I remember test driving a 4.6L v8 mustang and then a G35 afterwards and amazed how much torquier it felt and the top end was freakin nuts.
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
My 07 G35xS with the VQ35HR is still the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned. Beat the absolute piss out of it and made use of that full rpm range that was pushing 8000, and it just didn't care.
My Frontier has a ways to go, but it's on the same track, though.
Big_Foot_9695@reddit
The current generation of Frontier does not have a 4 cylinder.
Arnas_Z@reddit
You misread, he was talking about the Tacoma.
roman_maverik@reddit
The 4 cylinders were traditionally only for their fleet truck sales, and even though it wasn’t nearly as nice as the VQ, the trade off was almost 30 highway mpg so it was perfect for typical fleet stuff.
My business used the 4 cyl Frontier exclusively (with a 5 speed!) until they discontinued them in 2019. They were buzzy and underpowered but really good for what they were and if you knew what you were getting into.
They were also basically bulletproof (after the 2010 models) and had super cheap running costs.
This dude but over 1,000,000 on his:
https://usa.nissannews.com/en-US/releases/the-nissan-frontier-that-delivered-a-million-miles-and-counting
Johns-schlong@reddit
The armada is also great.
Quatermain@reddit
They put a smaller ring gear in the US armada than they do in the global market patrol on the same platform that is otherwise mostly the same vehicle.
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
And us Frontier guys thank them for that since it means we can get OEM axles for Titan swaps, since the wide-track Armada has the same front diff as the Frontier and Xterra.
Johns-schlong@reddit
That was only the last gen (y62) the new gen is the exact same thing.
Quatermain@reddit
Interesting that they changed it this year. It would be nice if they began to build to a high standard again, especially since toyota USA is slipping a bit.
Got to talk to one of nissans head truck engineers for a while a few years ago and he flat out told me not to consider their trucks at that point in time and that made an impression.
Johns-schlong@reddit
They originally did it to increase highway efficiency/comfort for US models, with the new powertrain there is no need.
Was he talking about the titan? Because that would make sense. The Armada/patrol seem to be especially well built, and the frontier, from what I've heard, is rock solid.
C-C-X-V-I@reddit
The new pathfinder looks great, no idea how it drives though.
TotesMcGotes13@reddit
We have a 2024 Pathfinder. For the mid size three row segment, I think it’s the best bang for the buck by far. V6, no CVT, and the platinum trim we have is very nice inside in terms of leather quality and features. Real comfy seats too.
DistanceSolar1449@reddit
Not as sporty as a Mazda CX-90, but better than a Toyota. It drives fine and the ride quality is fine for the segment, as long as you're not expecting a sports car or limo luxury.
BrakkeBama@reddit
BOF means Body-on-frame. It rides not-like-a-car. Suck it CX-90 drivers
hehechibby@reddit
Pathfinder hasn't been body on frame since 3rd generation
Big_Foot_9695@reddit
I think the first comments talking about how "sporty" it drives shows you how the Pathfinder has lost its way. For a time it was a legitimate 4Runner competitor.
roman_maverik@reddit
They are slowly getting back to that. The terrible 4th gen really messed with the brand. Not they the 4th Pathfinder is a bad car, it just wasn’t a pathfinder and had nothing in common from the previous model. At that point Nissan just needed to name it something else.
The new Pathfinder is on a BOF platform so they are trying to return to their roots, somehow.
captainnowalk@reddit
Seriously, with how good the Frontier is, and the Offroad craze still going on, I’d say it’s prime time for a new Xterra.
roman_maverik@reddit
I’m fairly certain it’s been confirmed, and like you mentioned, the platform, potential engine and trans are ready to go.
However, what made the previous xterra so good was (imho) the very spartan, bare-bones approach with the 6MT and locking diff options.
The new one, which will no doubt appeal to many modern sonuanere, will be perfectly adequate. But I’d say there’s no chance in hell it will come with an NA engine, manual transmission, and off-road diff, which is the reason I loved the 2nd gen xterra.
man__i__love__frogs@reddit
Disagree, they have enough vehicles like that. The new Xterra will be body on frame with the driveline from the Frontier.
I say this as someone who also owned an R51 Pathfinder and now owns a Frontier.
I could also see them chasing the softroader market a bit more and making a Rogue Rock Creek like they have for the Pathfinder. Actually it appears they already have this: https://www.nissanusa.com/vehicles/crossovers-suvs/rogue/rock-creek-edition.html
roman_maverik@reddit
I also own an R51 pathfinder, D40 Frontier and 2nd gen Xterra pro4x. However, I’m not sure Nissan has the emissions leeway to give the new Xterra an NA VQ.
The current leaked dealer reports cite a hybrid powertrain, but if it’s a hybrid VQ or 4 banger is yet to be seen.
My money is on a hybrid 1.3 three cylinder with an electric motor assist.
roman_maverik@reddit
The new pathfinder is BOF
xt1nct@reddit
Nissan Ariya is also nice.
jdore8@reddit
I heard that they’re making a larger spec version for the North American market. It’ll be called the Ariya-na Grande.
gtfo_overland@reddit
I hate you but also love you for this. 😂
JaredGoffFelatio@reddit
They look like an excellent deal on the used market. You can get them with super low miles in the low $20k range where I'm at. I almost pulled the trigger on one, but idk if I'm ready to go full EV just yet and since they're so new there's really no telling how well they'll hold up (I'm guessing fine, but it's still a question mark).
Unusual_Advisor_970@reddit
I seriously considered a used one this year since cheaper than Tacoma. But went even smaller
Diogenes256@reddit
They look pretty nice, too. If I were replacing a truck I would definitely give it a very thorough run down.
UnmakingTheBan2022@reddit
Nah, the perfect mid-size truck is the Ranger Raptor. That’s what I would go for.
MRDR1NL@reddit
That depreciation is a factor in total cost of ownership. If you plan to sell it in 5 years it could be cheaper in total to buy a taco.
woowoo293@reddit
So long as you're doing your job as a shopper, depreciation as a purchase consideration is a bit over-rated. The cars that have the worst depreciation are also the ones on which you can bargain the best deal. So you should be capturing the risk of that depreciation in your purchase price. Toyota dealerships, on the other hand, are able to sell their cars at close to MSRP or even with a mark-up. In other words, one way or the other, you're paying for that stellar low depreciation.
Daytrader60@reddit
Good points
Fun_Driver_5566@reddit
Isn’t the whole point of buying a Tacoma to drive it for 400,000 miles until the wheels fall off?
Dan_TheGreat@reddit
or drive it anywhere under 100k miles for basically nothing. I mean obviously not nothing but my spec taco 3-4 years older with 50-70k miles was going for mid 30s on what was a 40 thousand dollar truck.
VictimOfRegions@reddit
Nah man its all about buying things famous for their durability and then never ever requiring that of them. We're aiming at the crowd that buys cast iron pans and seasons two coats in the oven after every use
tsrich@reddit
Even if you don't keep it long enough to use the durability, you benefit from it with a higher resale.
Terrh@reddit
The nissan is built for people who run their cast iron through the dishwasher and have it still work just fine
RobinsShaman@reddit
Z
SpacemanCraig3@reddit
This is unfortunate for nissan, the frontier seems like it should genuinely be the market leader for midsize trucks but ever since nissan pivoted their business strategy to financing as many altimas as possible their brand has gone to shit.
Dan_TheGreat@reddit
no option trd offroad can be had for much cheaper btw. mine was 42.
People are really out here paying NINE THOUSAND DOLLARS for the sog shit jbl tech upgrade because big screen.
whitevwjetta@reddit
Nissan makes a lot of good cars, people are overreact to CVT issues that aren’t as big as a deal anymore… like sure they have issues but they’re nice cars and don’t really have many more issues than the average Kia, Hyundai, Ford, Chevy, etc
Lumpy-Tradition6292@reddit
Tell that to my 2008 Frontier.
1nconspicious@reddit
I would blame their cars for that perception, primarily the CVT Transmissions. Everything else has been pretty good imo, especially their body in frame stuff. Infiniti despite their lack of true luxury has had alot of their cars end up as affordable sports cars in the used market.
Jack_of_MostTrades@reddit
CVT issues are common because of lack of fluid changes....if changed EVERY 30K miles, they seem to hold up just fine, also they're not really designed for towing, but we sell quite a few class 1 and 2 hitches...
Terrh@reddit
I agree that they have this rep.
But I have no idea why.
I fix cars for a living and I almost never get nissans excluding specialty ones.
Every nissan you ever see has probably not had an oil change in 3 years and is still capable of going 85mph down the freeway with 3 underinflated tires and will keep doing it for years to come.
Smart_History4444@reddit
I think what really screwed Nissan up as a brand was the cvt disaster. Nissan doesn’t build bad cars.
I have a 2016 Sentra that was purchased brand new. 200k later it’s still going and it’s cost us cheaper to own than a Corolla or civic. Definitely much cheaper to buy. I remember we got that with 40km on the clock for $10k OTD. Granted it is a base model but like. You’re not getting a Honda, Mazda or Toyota brand new for that price ever.
AwardImmediate720@reddit
It's 100% this. It's a repeating pattern throughout car history: one bad run will leave a stain on a brand forever, or at least for decades. Even long after the problem has been solved.
Jack_of_MostTrades@reddit
Unless Ford......think transmissions in the Fiesta/Focus, 3.8 head gaskets, Ecoboost issues of all sorts, including belts INSIDE the crankcase, etc.....Ford has had ~100 recalls recently, but STILL seems to sell a BUNCH of vehicles
engled@reddit
There are a lot of people that will never buy another Nissan for this very reason. In the 90s we were a Nissan family, not anymore.
avinash240@reddit
I have a 2023 Nissan Pathfinder. Only reasonably priced vehicle I could find that can tow 6k pounds. They've absolutely earned that reputation.
The car has less than 30k miles and is less than 3 years old...here is a list of things that have happened.
I've had the passenger side window switch fall into the door when my gf tried to use it.
I've had a a leak in my sunroof 4 times. It's been fixed still leaks occasionally. Something is wrong with how they designed the drain.
Car had a faulty front strut bearing bearing when it has under 6k miles. Looked it up, it's a common problem.
Car has had developed some noticed squeaks and creaks in the interior. This is with less than 30k miles.
The car is also now developing a rough idle on startup. It goes away have heating up. No idea why.
I've kept up with maintenance and fortunately everything that's broken has been fixed under warranty but there is zero chance I'm keeping the car out of warranty.
The sunroof fix alone was 2.5k.
I have a friend who works for Nissan. Not a single thing that has happened to me is out of the ordinary to him.
They do have some well build cars but those are primarily the ones that are exclusively built in Japan.
CB242x1@reddit
C V T
JaredGoffFelatio@reddit
I only have limited experience with Nissan, but the ones I've had were great. My first car was a '98 Sentra and it went over 300k miles and only got decommissioned because I hit a deer. Also had a high mileage Altima that had no issues.
It seems like people really overestimate car manufacturers based on their reputation. Toyota and Honda (to a slightly lesser extent) get lauded as the best of the best in terms of reliability, but in reality it depends on the model and there are plenty of models made by manufacturers with poor reliability reputations that are actually really great.
Same for people thinking Volvo is always the safest car, or the average Subaru has better AWD than others. These things were true at one point, like the 90s and early 2000s, but not anymore..
Self-MadeRmry@reddit
I’ve had 2 titans, 2 sentras, a maxima and an Altima and they were all fantastic. I’ve also had a Ram and it was the best vehicle I ever had
Bobatt@reddit
Yeah, I had an Altima and a Frontier. Perfectly fine cars. Biggest gripe with them were some paint flaws in the Altima and the brakes on the Frontier seemed a bit weak. My Volkswagen Golf had more problems than both of them combined.
christobevii3@reddit
My dads 2012 frontier blew the struts, has air in the brake lines, radio volume knob quit working, power seat quit working, and paint is flaking off by 3-5 years... It was bad.
Lilmumblecrapper@reddit
This honestly all seems pretty minor, considering the issues with engines and transmissions all full size trucks are going through now.
christobevii3@reddit
This was at 40k miles, 4k miles out of warranty. We've had a gas ram 2500 without issues so far, knock on wood. I basically went with ram because the transmission and 1500s were more.
DrZedex@reddit
What people forget is that the dodge of Japan is still better than an actual dodge.
volmeistro@reddit
Funny enough the Frontier was probably the least problematic of all the Nissans back when I was a tech, but that was before the newest ones came out. But the old 4.0s were pretty good trucks, the main problem with them was the shitty interior.
k0fi96@reddit
My buddy has 3 Infinitis in his family and 2 of them are well over 200k miles.
ohnosevyn@reddit
On Reddit. Tbh I haven’t had any problems w Nissan trucks or sports cars.
Minimum_Persimmon281@reddit
Still, 40k$ is a good price. If i had to have a truck, I’d take my chances owning a Nissan over a Toyota, especially after a chunk of it’s value has been lost to depreciation. Im not from the US so i don’t know how bad they depreciate compared to a Tacoma, but 30.000$ is no joke.
saturnuranusmars@reddit
Because the internet hates Nissan for no reason
vipercrazy@reddit
A quick Google shows the 2025 starting prices between the pro4x and the TRD off road are $500 apart. If you want the more refined v6 that's understandable, but if a major issue crops up, while unlikely, Nissan would historically not stand behind their product like Toyota would and extend the warranty coverage or certain items. Any new car is a large hit to your savings whether it's 40k or 70k, I bought a 12 Tacoma with 89k for 18k, no direct injection diluting the fuel or safety systems that if they go bad are expensive and time consuming to diagnose and repair.
man__i__love__frogs@reddit
In 2025 you can't buy vehicles at "starting prices" anymore.
vipercrazy@reddit
If you aren't picky about trim you can certainly get a Tacoma under sticker, dealers have 6 month old trucks on lots.
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
Same goes for Nissan. I got mine for $7500 off MSRP as my out the door price.
DocPhilMcGraw@reddit
I think the problem is that most mid-size trucks face a lot of competition from full-size trucks being within spitting distance of the price range. I've seen a lot of full-size trucks marked down sometimes $10k to even $12k off MSRP which puts it in that $40k range. Sure, the Frontier may end up having more features, but I think many people who shop for trucks immediately think they need a full-size over a mid-size.
I also think it was a really dumb decision for Nissan to not offer an Xterra based on the Frontier. I feel like offering a stablemate (of sorts) helps. The Tacoma has the 4Runner, the Ranger has the Bronco, the Ridgeline has the Pilot/Passport, and Gladiator has the Wrangler.
spongebob_meth@reddit
I hate full size trucks and will literally pay extra to drive something smaller. I think I'm not alone in that, which is why they are priced the way they are.
My Tacoma is a lot more practical than shoehorning a fullsize into a small garage, parking space, and driving around town. It still seats 4-5 adults comfortably and tows 6400lbs. That's as capable as a half ton from the 90s.
DocPhilMcGraw@reddit
I’m not saying you’re alone in that, but I do think that you’re in the minority in that opinion. Especially in the southeast, a lot of people will go with a larger truck if for nothing else because of how they think it’ll make them look. And I’m sure there’s a lot of people that will justify paying a little more because they think they’ll be towing a lot or needing the extra space.
spongebob_meth@reddit
I noticed that when I lived in the southeast. Living in the mountain west, people definitely like their midsizes more because they actually fit down forest roads
DocPhilMcGraw@reddit
Yeah in the southeast, or really SEC country as I like to say, it’s about which truck looks best lifted with off road tires and fog lights. Then you get into places that like to do the Carolina squat too. Most of them have never been off road more than a dirt road and when given the chance to do some actual off-roading they get stuck.
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
People out west will lift them and throw larger tires on as well, but there's nowhere near the obsession with putting rubber band tires on stupid wide and absurd offset wheels that serve zero actual function.
My Frontier is lifted (2.5" front/1.5" rear) with 33s on it, but they're 80 profile pizza cutters that fit fully inside the fenders, and will climb damn near anything while still fitting down goat paths.
an_actual_lawyer@reddit
This is it, 100%. You can't compare sticker to sticker when one of the vehicles usually has 4-5 figures of cash on the hood.
DodgerBlueRobert1@reddit
Regarding the Xterra...
DocPhilMcGraw@reddit
Yeah I saw that. Don’t get me wrong, I think it’s great that they’re thinking about doing it but that’s still 3 years away.
They had all the time in the world to have gone ahead and built one based on the Frontier or at least utilizing a lot of the same Frontier parts. In fact, they even gave someone their blessing to make a modern Xterra for SEMA. There was a moment a few years ago when we had the new Bronco come onto the market, people were still lining up to buy the LR Defender, the new Lexus GX was unveiled, etc. And I feel like that was the moment for Nissan to say “hey we are reviving the Xterra.”
The fact that they prioritized the Murano instead is almost ludicrous in my opinion. The Murano is on track to sell around 36k units this year in the U.S. That’s just barely more than the 31k they sold in 2023. So they spent all this money on a new Murano that barely sells more than the old version.
DodgerBlueRobert1@reddit
Yeah, Nissan is very late to the segment indeed. But at least they've green-lit it. Better late than never, but they left lots of money on the table. Didn't they recently switch CEO's, or the president of North American operations? I know there's been some movement amongst the Nissan bigwigs.
DocPhilMcGraw@reddit
Yeah I mean credit where credit is due to CEO Espinosa for starting to correct the ship, but there's still a lot there that he needs to work through in my opinion.
If it truly does come with a hybrid V6 then it would probably be my first choice, especially if it's an NA V6 hybrid. I just am holding my breath though because a lot can change in the next 3 years.
doug910@reddit
“I don’t like tech!” gets adaptive cruise control
“I like muh manuals!” gets a 9sp auto
Also, why is a frame from 2006 a GOOD thing?
ohwell_______@reddit (OP)
I mean, I'm not a total luddite, adaptive cruise is super nice and makes traffic on the highway 10x more bearable.
I was more talking about the lack of nannies in the Frontier by 2025 car standards. It doesn't beep at me or try to take control for every little thing, or hide all controls on a screen the way my GF's Volvo does
doug910@reddit
Again, I just think you’re justifying the frontier for the wrong reasons. I have nothing against the frontier, but it doesn’t have the benefits that you mention compared to other midsize trucks. Why are you even mentioning a Volvo?
You can easily get a 4x4 Tacoma, Ranger, or Colorado for $40k if you don’t go for the high trims. None of them have nannies that you can’t turn off completely. Sure, some got big screens recently, but you can still control radio and climate control via buttons on all of them.
Maybe you’re dead set on a NA V6, but idk, a V6 doesn’t really do anything for me subjectively, so I’ll just take whatever is the best objective option - either a hybrid I4 or TT V6.
ohwell_______@reddit (OP)
I suppose this is my main reason for picking it over the other three. $40k got me a fully loaded top trim model.
I bring up the Volvo because, as I'm not a car reviewer, it's the only 2020+ model car I have spent significant seat time in and is my baseline for a modern car.
degggendorf@reddit
Originally you said you wanted a basic utility truck, why is getting all the gizmos on the highest trim now a selling point?
ohwell_______@reddit (OP)
Because basic utility trucks don’t exist anymore, and the tech on this one is well done and restrained
degggendorf@reddit
.....lower trims of the Frontier definitely still exist.
Got it, so you actually do want tech on your truck, as long as it's "restrained". Can you help me understand what "restrained" means in this context?
man__i__love__frogs@reddit
The Pro4x doesnt have have tech, it's more ground clearance, upgraded suspension, full skid plates, diff lock. A few things are upgraded like the sound system.
degggendorf@reddit
What tech is it missing? Looking at the trim comparison, it only has tech additions and upgrades: https://www.nissanusa.com/vehicles/trucks/frontier/specs-trims.html?language=en&compare=32116-32416
Wireless carplay over wired
Bigger screen
More speakers
Smart key
Satellite radio
Navigation
Wireless charger
Traffic sign recognition
Hill descent and hold control
360 camera
Homelink
Power moonroof
Heated mirrors
Auto high beams
Power seats
Dual zone climate
Auto-dim rearview mirror
Security system
man__i__love__frogs@reddit
Those things are either on the SV, or they're part of extra packages like Convenience or Premium packages.
There is also an all weather package for the SV with some things the Pro-4X can't get.
degggendorf@reddit
That does not seem to be accurate, here are the differences to SV...seems to still be all additions in the Pro 4x: https://www.nissanusa.com/vehicles/trucks/frontier/specs-trims.html?language=en&compare=32316-32416
Right, op says theirs is loaded.
man__i__love__frogs@reddit
I mean there are several things available on the SV and not Pro4x on that very link you provided, like a heated steering wheel.
OP may be in Canada where there are different configurations.
And yeah you're right, OP's sounds to be fully loaded, so he did go with a bunch of tech that other models don't have available, but the base Pro4X is mostly offroad or mechanical related things rather than tech, that was the main point I was trying to make.
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
The Pro-4X absolutely has heated seats and a heated steering wheel available.
If truly want every option on a Frontier, you have to get a loaded Pro-4X. The one option that only the Pro-4X gets that no other trim does is the 360 cameras, since they sell it as "Crawl Cams" for offroading.
degggendorf@reddit
OP said they got one on theirs, so yeah maybe they're Canada spec.
Gotcha, thank you
ohwell_______@reddit (OP)
I feel like I’ve mentioned that in my main post. It has basic modern tech which I find useful without being overwhelming. I don’t mind auto cruise and a heated steering wheel, I don’t want Chevy cylinder deactivation or OTA software updates. It has an old school Speedo and tach instead of a screen, it has an old school gear shifter instead of a dial etc
The whole “brown, used from factory, zero features” is just an old r/cars joke. I have lived that life for 12 years, my 2008 Tacoma had literally zero tech besides AC and a radio.
degggendorf@reddit
One of the options you paid for on your loaded Pro 4X adds OTA updates, FYI
ohwell_______@reddit (OP)
Half tons are out, they are painful to drive around a big city and don’t fit in my garage. This post is within the context of Midsize trucks or their cousins like the 4Runner or Xterra type SUVs.
My bare minimum requirements for a truck are 4x4 and a locking rear differential. Toyota gatekeeps the locker behind Off Road and higher trims. The Maverick is sweet but open diffs and AWD instead of 4x4, and the 4k tow limit is low for me.
Pro 4X Nissan gives me that as well as other reasonable features like leather seats for a reasonable price. The only competitor to this price point is a Colorado Trail Boss and the Nissan is much nicer for the same money.
As I was saying I don’t hate tech stuff, and this has modern convenience without being overwhelming. It’s like driving a previous gen truck for previous gen prices.
degggendorf@reddit
My bad, I lost the thread...I meant to refer to the "4x4 Tacoma, Ranger, or Colorado for $40k if you don’t go for the high trims" the person mentioned above, I thought we were in a different thread where someone brought up the F150 STX.
ohwell_______@reddit (OP)
I test drove the Tacoma and Colorado (well, I test drove a Canyon) as well.
Part of it is intangibles… the Frontier just has the soul of an old school truck if that makes any sense at all, the other two don’t. So many people on Reddit lament how they don’t make trucks like they used to, I’m just arguing that Nissan makes the closest we’re going to get.
Part of it is, given a $40k budget I’m going to get the best vehicle I can afford.
My avoidance of tech has more to do with how much they’ve driven up truck prices astronomically, I quite like leather seats and adaptive cruise! For the right price.
degggendorf@reddit
I think I know what you mean, and that's exactly what I didn't like about it...it drives like an old dump truck which I don't care for at all. Like, everything seems to take the truck so much effort even when it's just hauling its empty self down a smooth road.
peakdecline@reddit
What does "fully loaded" actually mean?
When I've compared what you get in a $40K Frontier versus what the competition offers around the same price... I don't see the competition lacking in features compared to the Frontier. The competition just has more potential features. Sure its not "fully loaded" but its just as "loaded" as the Frontier at a similar price.
ohwell_______@reddit (OP)
In this case: leather seats, e locker, heated steering and seats, outlet in the bed and factory bedliner, nicer speakers etc.
ohwell_______@reddit (OP)
The MSRP on it was $51K, but they’re not selling so my dealer had it marked down to $40.
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
Bingo. I got my Pro-4X with literally every option available for $44k OTD.
A comparable Tacoma at the dealer across the street was $57k at the time.
Colorado? $53k
Ranger? $54k
Canyon? Zero stock available
man__i__love__frogs@reddit
The Frontier goes down in price too when you don't get the top trim. But since it's a truck, some people want to go off road and skidplates and more ground clearance are pretty much a pre-req, and the Frontier has the best value that offers that.
The other trucks have lane keep assist, auto stop start and other driving aides that automatically enable each time you start the truck.
The Colorado has a pretty egregious touch screen where wiper controls and headlights are in the touch screen, and some 4x4 and drive mode buttons are touch screen only and when going between trail cams and other options, you have to back out of like 2 or 3 different menus, then navigate into different menus, etc...
degggendorf@reddit
Doesn't it have the un-shut-off-able automatic reverse breaking? My buddy hates that on his, it's waaaay too sensitive.
Terrh@reddit
If you ever want to have fun, tesla has this too and it limits output hard if it senses that you might it something backing up.
Watching teslas try to back into superchargers in a snowy parking lot in the winter is hilarious, especially if you're sitting in your own 4WD tesla with air suspension that was able to just lift itself high enough to not get stuck and are waiting for it to charge.
degggendorf@reddit
I do not want to have fun!! 🤣
DocPhilMcGraw@reddit
Adaptive cruise control has been around since 1999. I remember even a 2005 Avalon had adaptive cruise control. I wouldnt' really call that "tech" in the same way that we use to talk about the nanny safety systems or the over-indulgence on screens that a lot of new cars come with these days.
Arbsbuhpuh@reddit
I have a 2005 Lexus, a 2012 Honda, and a 2014 Acura, and none of them have adaptive cruise control. It's not as ubiquitous as you seem to think.
degggendorf@reddit
If you notice today's date, all those cars are over ten years old.
Arbsbuhpuh@reddit
Yes? I'm aware of how time works. What's your point?
degggendorf@reddit
My point is that we're talking about how common it is in new cars today. Your old cars not having it proves nothing.
Arbsbuhpuh@reddit
I think we're both making the same point. Even though the tech was implemented in the early 2000's, there are still a lot of vehicles without adaptive cruise control. Is that what you're also saying?
degggendorf@reddit
Still a lot of new vehicles without it? No, I think it's pretty much standard now.
Arbsbuhpuh@reddit
https://www.verifiedmarketreports.com/product/adaptive-cruise-control-acc-market/
In 2022, only 32% of new vehicles sold in the US had adaptive cruise control.
degggendorf@reddit
I mean, yeah...it is clearly out of date, but at least it's less out of date than your old cars anecdote.
Arbsbuhpuh@reddit
I disagree that any car less than 5 years old is considered old.
That's a massive increase, clearly, but it's still only just over 2/3rds. Nevertheless, I will concede the point that brand new vehicles usually have adaptive cruise. But 2020 is not old.
degggendorf@reddit
Good thing I never said that....?
DocPhilMcGraw@reddit
Lexus had adaptive cruise since 2001. Just because Honda/Acura was late to the party doesn’t mean that it wasn’t offered in plenty of other vehicles in the meantime. The 2006 Passat had ACC as an option.
It’s been a standard feature for the Toyota Camry since 2018. So again this isn’t some new tech.
Arbsbuhpuh@reddit
Yeah, but it doesn't come on every car. I'm telling you, I have all those cars and it's not on any of them. Just because Lexus put it on some cars in 2001 doesn't mean that every Lexus after then had it.
You're acting like it's everywhere, and it's not. Or I somehow cherry pick cars without it, which doesn't make sense because I actually want it lol
DocPhilMcGraw@reddit
Ok let’s go through all the pretty basic models to see:
It’s been standard on the Camry since 2018 MY.
It’s been standard on the Impreza/Crosstrek since 2019 MY.
It’s been standard in the Nissan Altima since 2019 MY.
It’s been standard in the Hyundai Elantra since 2021 MY.
So yes, this is pretty basic technology that can be found in the most basic of vehicles.
ohnosevyn@reddit
It’s fully boxed steel. The frontier has been on a fully boxed frame since it debuted. It took the Tundra 3 generations to get that the blended c frame thing sucks.
spongebob_meth@reddit
When OP could have gotten a 6 speed Tacoma for the same price
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
Because the last gen ones are absolute tanks, so keeping the same frame means this design should hold up as well.
Not to mention the fact that 2md gen suspension parts and upgrades are bolt on compatible.
Also, fun fact: from the firewall forward, the Frontier/Xterra/R51 Pathfinder are identical to the Titan/Armada/QX-80.
dekusyrup@reddit
Because most people want lots of tech, double cab, short box, with a big RAPTOR or REBEL or whatever written on the side to impress people.
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
The only thing on that list the Frontier lacks is the tech (somewhat), and the RAPTOR/REBEL branding...
Ok-Explorer-885@reddit
They are overpriced for what they are. You can get an F150 STX for close to, if not the same price. They are outdated compared to the competition and it shows. I looked at Frontiers before settling on an F150 a few years ago and the amount of rust on the frames of 1-2 year old trucks had me convinced to look elsewhere.
spongebob_meth@reddit
Midsize and fullsize trucks may as well be a different class of vehicle entirely. I didn't even consider a full size because I actively don't want a vehicle that large. It doesn't fit in the garage, doesn't fit in parking spots, and doesn't fit on the trail.
I would like to see someone build a heavy duty midsize
sponge_welder@reddit
I drove an F150 recently and it was eye opening how unmaneuverable it was. It felt like the car was blocking me from driving where I wanted to go
spongebob_meth@reddit
And I drive full sized trucks for work all the time so it's not that I am not used to them, I just think they suck to drive. It's always in its own way
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
I went from a fullsize down to a midsize, and it's wild how much easier it is to fit places.
Plus I moved, and lucked out since my fullsize wouldn't have fit in my garage.
Windows-XP-Home-NEW@reddit
Overpriced? If these are overpriced then what on Earth is the Tacoma and Colorado considered to be?
An STX is the most basic consumer oriented trim you can buy. For $42K you can get a top of the line trim Frontier.
Ok-Explorer-885@reddit
The STX is pretty well equipped… certainly not top of the line, but far from roughing it. And I’d way rather have a full size Ford truck than a midsize Nissan. And by the sales numbers, most people seem to agree.
Shmokesshweed@reddit
Yup. STX around me is 42k without a minute of haggling.
wintersgrasp1@reddit
isnt it only 42 in the smallest size a super crew with the 2.7 is 48 and with the 5.0 is 53
degggendorf@reddit
Op is looking for a single cab
wintersgrasp1@reddit
Well that only increase the price difference the frontier single cab is like ten k cheaper than a 2025 stx
degggendorf@reddit
Well part of the problem is OP's double standard...they say they want a single cab truck, but actually bought a crew cab Frontier. So it seems that a crew cab F150 is a bad thing to OP, but a crew cab Frontier is a good thing.
So I'm really not sure what to make of their preferences. It kinda seems like they're starting from the position of "Frontier good" and by definition everything else is bad. They don't want tech, except they do what the tech the Frontier has. They don't want bells and whistles, but they do want the highest trim Frontier. They want a long bed, but the short bed Frontier is good.
Shmokesshweed@reddit
Yeah 2.7 only.
wintersgrasp1@reddit
Oh that's pretty good but you are comparing a 2024 to 2025 the pro 4x frontier is 40 and the 2025 crew cab is like 52
Shmokesshweed@reddit
Yeah, for sure. Not sure what the difference is between the years, but likely just good ole decontenting lol.
wintersgrasp1@reddit
The difference is 8 and tbh I can find a 2024 V8 I'm probably going to buy it that's a good discount
V8-Turbo-Hybrid@reddit
Nissan doesn't offer Titian anymore, does it ? Frontier is now their only truck.
cajunaggie08@reddit
They have stopped production but I'm sure there are a bunch of 2023 and 2024 models sitting on lots.
SHHHeng@reddit
I didn't expect to scroll this far to see this comment. Easily to get an F150 for $38K and 4x4 around $42K with 0% APR on top. And it can be lower if you good at bargain.
kendrickdlr@reddit
I think it primarily comes down to marketing. America is very big on brand loyalty. People literally "ride or die" with the brand they've always lived with. They basically choose a brand and stick with it to a fault. It's why the Big 3 are so successful in sales with their trucks despite pretty much all of them having abysmal reliability. And, Toyota just did a way better job at marketing the Tacoma/Tundra over the years than Nissan did with the Frontier/Titan despite them both having similar reputations for small trucks in the 80s and 90s.
JaredGoffFelatio@reddit
This is such a a reddit take lol. Most of them have average reliability in reality. There are definitely some model years to avoid, but there are a ton of high mileage Big 3 pickup trucks that are still on the road, running and driving just fine.
kendrickdlr@reddit
I mean it’s no conspiracy that all the brands are trending down in reliability (includes Toyota and Honda). Any full-size truck today is less reliable on average than their versions from 10-15 even 20 years ago. They’re just so tech-filled now. And combine that with increasing EPA standards and less-than-great quality control and what you get are endless recalls and over-complicated powertrains that are designed to last just past the warranty period. Not to mention, they’ve inflated so much in price.
AwardImmediate720@reddit
The main bugbears, however, are in the infotainment. Mechanically vehicles are far more reliable than they've ever been.
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
Ford's 10 speed has a class action lawsuit against it...
kendrickdlr@reddit
I beg to differ. I’ll cede that the power plants for the most part have been pretty solid (huge exception for the GM V8s with the cylinder deactivation). But the weak leak for GM/Ford is the joint-designed 10-speed, which has had pretty poor reliability record since they’ve both implemented them into their lineups. You can’t get a new GM/Ford full-size or heavy duty or Ranger without one.
DereLickenMyBalls@reddit
I think a lot of Toyotas marketing success is them continuing to make a good product. The 2000s saw Nissan produce more and more crap. They lost their momentum. Toyota just kept making really reliable trucks.
UnusualHound@reddit
Don't forget about Toyota making their trucks in the US.
My dad's Union had a rule that company trucks HAD to be American, and most members bought American for their personal vehicles as well. It was a point of pride and standing together with other Unions like the UAW.
...and then Toyota started hiring my dad's Union companies to construct their factories and build their trucks. And suddenly that all changed.
man__i__love__frogs@reddit
The Frontier, Xterra, Body on Frame Pathfinder and Titan were all great vehicles through the 00's.
The problem was that they either axed them or did not update them for like a whole decade and it lost people.
Sure the 2019 Frontier being the same tech and platform from 2005 is a selling point to some (me, it's cheap and reliable and capable off road), but that's not how you attract a lot of new buyers lol.
V8-Turbo-Hybrid@reddit
Before Toyota starts making bad engine in their trucks, Toyota fucked up their truck frame in same 2000's. Their truck rusty issue was reason why Toyota never be able to touch Detroit trucks.
1988rx7T2@reddit
Yeah the 80s pickups had long lasting engines but were notorious for rust
backpainzz@reddit
marketing could’ve been better if they had nissan.com but instead it’s just a lot of bad publicity
Shmokesshweed@reddit
Because it was the same for 16 years. Then when they "redesigned" it, they got outdone by Toyota, Ford, and Chevy.
jamesgilboy@reddit
Disagree. The Ranger redesign was middlingly received, the Colorado handles a bit clumsily, and the Tacoma is a stylistic hodgepodge in addition to being overpriced and overhyped.
Shmokesshweed@reddit
Fair enough. Outdone is maybe not the right word to use, but it did feel like the redesign got quickly overshadowed by the 3 others launching new midsize trucks in a super short timeframe.
The Ranger is...interesting. Outside of the Raptor, I don't have any real interest in it. Outside of that, I'd either go Maverick or F-150.
The Colorado...the transmission is clunky from what I've heard. Never driven it. But they did a very good job having something for absolutely everyone across the trims.
And the Tacoma...well, I see zero value in it.
jamesgilboy@reddit
I actually thought the Colorado's drivetrain was its best part. That 2.7 is a fantastic engine that people are still sleeping on. Don't remember much about the transmission though.
Shmokesshweed@reddit
Engine is good. Transmission feels lazy and slow from what I've heard, even for a truck.
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
That was my impression as well. Engine had pep and great low end, but trans was very slow and clunky. The fuel economy looked atrocious from the little I got to see as well.
I also hated the goddamn infotainment, and the fact that GM, in all their wisdom, put the headlight controls in it.
FurriousKittens@reddit
The 8 speed paired with the 2.7 is pretty hit and miss. The 10 speed on the Ranger is pretty bad. Even updated versions have issues with being clunky. TBF I’m not a fan of any of the manufacturers current transmissions in their trucks. 9 speed in Nissan was fine as is the 8 speed on the Tacoma was okay as well. Hesitation and weird shift sequent every once in a while but fine overall for Nissan and Tacoma
-NotEnoughMinerals@reddit
My employer bought Colorado's a few years ago. Before the refresh, so I think they're like...2019s, 2020s. Basic 4cyl models. I thought they were fine, they did the job. Not exciting at all. Tranny seemed fine enough. The issue for us was, all of them had problems in some way or another. Stupid shit, too. Radio going out, headlights and taillights flooding full of water, exhaust leaks, crap like that.
Employer has been fazing them out and going Tacoma. Tacoma is a lot peppier/torquey. Shifts smoother id say. Having driven both, it's a little curious how excited people get over these trucks as they both feel pretty boring to me. I couldn't imagine spending 55, 65, 75k on it. But, my employer isn't buying fancy trims either, so 🤷
JaredGoffFelatio@reddit
Lol. I think they're definitely overrated, but the real value in the Tacoma is that you can buy one, drive it for a few years and sell it for what you paid.
Shmokesshweed@reddit
True.
Justame13@reddit
This is spot on. When I got my kid a car about a year ago I flirted with getting a 2.7 Ranger but it just didn't have a reason to exist really.
Small truck with all the ups and downs- Go Maverick;
Need to do more than that- just get an F-150 it isn't that much more for a ton more towing, payload, and space.
Want to offroad- just get a Bronco
Even the Raptor costs almost as much as a Bronco Bandlands which you can do Ford's in house tune and end up with more HP.
Reduxalicious@reddit
"End up with more Horsepower"
Wat, even with the in house tune the 2.7 is down by 55hp and only up by 3tq.
Slap the in-house Ford tune on the Ranger Raptor you're up 100hp and and 100 tq.
Justame13@reddit
I was going off memory so I admit I was off.
But my point still stands that it just doesn't do anything well. At that price point you can get a Bronco Badlands or 1-2 year old F-150 Raptor with 20-30k miles and have a much better off roader
peakdecline@reddit
If the Colorado "handles clumsily" then Frontier handles like a disaster. The Ranger redesign is now doing very well now that production has ramped. And while I'm mixed on the Tacoma's look and pricing on higher trims it is a better truck than the Frontier.
jamesgilboy@reddit
In what world? The GM feels like a much bigger truck than it is, and not in a good way. The Frontier meanwhile has hydraulic steering (which I like) and stiffer way bars for more responsive on-road handling, plus its dimensions are much clearer. Those sway bars' effect off-road is rather different, but that's not what I'm talking about.
peakdecline@reddit
The hydraulic steering produces anything but an responsive on-road driving experience in the Frontier.
I have no clue what "dimensions are much clearer" means.
You're the first person I've ever heard claim a Frontier drives better than any of the other current mid-size truck options except a Gladiator. Maybe you do you have a preference for the heavier more traditional "truck like" steering on the Frontier but I'd hardly call the Colorado clumsy... in fact I'd say it feels more precise and car-like if anything.
Bassracerx@reddit
It just took a year for the exoboost v6 to hit the market the fitst hear was 4 cylinder only so it was only competitive at the lower trims. Now you can order the v6 and the ranger rapter is one of the best trucks that money can buy period.
jamesgilboy@reddit
Ehh, that's situational. The RR is a desert runner and not much else. Other brands cover off more off-road niches with their trucks.
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
*On paper
Once you own it, then you get to deal with the nightmare that is Ford build quality
SuprKidd@reddit
Idk, I see fleet rental cars daily and so far, the sketchiest off the line are the Nissans. >10k miles and leaking fluid, bolts missing from the trans etc. Always the Altimas though, the Frontier seems solid in comparison
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
I had a '21 F-150 that was falling apart at 2 1/2 years old and Ford wouldn't do shit about it.
My dad had an Edge that needed a new longblock at 26k miles, an Edge ST that went through 3 sunroofs because they kept rattling, then an Explorer ST that went through 3 sunroofs because they kept rattling.
My brother has a '17 Explorer that's burned through 3 blend door actuators in the 2 years he's owned it.
TheNorseHorseForce@reddit
Have one myself and haven't had a single issue with it in over 2 years.
If you're talking about the numerous recalls, yeah, that has some concern, but just like every brand, there's the good and the bad.
Except Dodge. Dodge has gone downhill in almost every category
velociraptorfarmer@reddit
I had a '21 F-150 that at 2 1/2 years old had the horn get stuck on, had the gauge cluster go black while on the interstate in the middle of Minneapolis, has all sorts of obnoxious dash rattles, and about a dozen other little issues.
Ford basically told me to pound sand.
Manginaz@reddit
Change that to say TOYOTA and everyone would shit their pants and clap their hands with tears in their eyes.
TrapLordSammySam@reddit
Lmao or “TRD PRO OFFROAD”
SargentoPepper@reddit
How long do Toyota models last? The 4Runner was 15 years old and people didn’t complain.
I agree that they made the 2022 Frontier to compete with the 2021 Tacoma in mind when it was old as hell to begin with.
I’d totally hit a Pro4x when they’re sub 25 used.
Now, a brand new Cátedra with 4x4 sub 30k, yes please!
1003mistakes@reddit
The interior stopped me from looking at one. The FRONTIER and obnoxious orange is just too much for a daily.
Shmokesshweed@reddit
Yup. If it were me, literally the only thing I would have done is introduce the larger infotainment and other smaller updates that are not gaudy. It's the most understated design in the midsize today and that's a big reason why folks go for it.
CrypticQuery@reddit
I would buy a Frontier tomorrow if I could have it with a column shifter.
JaredGoffFelatio@reddit
I miss bench seats and column shifters in trucks.
N0Name117@reddit
Column shifters are still fairly common. Believe both ford and chevy have them on the cheaper trim half tons and all the 3/4 ton and up are exclusively column shifter.
CrypticQuery@reddit
Unfortunately they're just not offered on the medium-sized trucks like the Frontier, Colorado, new Ranger, Tacoma, etc.
Drzhivago138@reddit
I think there were/are some Ram HDs with the dial shifter, but otherwise it's all column. Even when it's a high trim that would otherwise have a console shifter in half-ton guise.
thefanciestcat@reddit
If it was an option, I would choose a column shifter for automatics over the console mounted option every time in every application. Free up the console.
Drzhivago138@reddit
If we're going for ultimate space saving, buttons or a dial shifter are the way, since almost every automatic now is just an electric switch not physically connected to the transmission anyway.
GM's full-size SUVs recently switched from buttons back to a column shifter, but it's not a classic column shifter; it's a flappy paddle that returns to center after each shift.
thefanciestcat@reddit
I love the idea of buttons and dial shifters and was excited to hear they were being used more, and then I saw they were mostly being out on the console and using the same footprint as console mounted shifters. 100% agree if they're on the dash, though.
CrypticQuery@reddit
I completely agree.
squirrel8296@reddit
Because Nissan made the previous generation from 2004-2021 without any substantive improvements and it was not competitive. It was out dated by 2010, by the end it was practically an antique.
For a large portion of that production run the only options for a mid size truck in North America were the Frontier, the Tacoma, and the GM twins (Canyon and Colorado). A lot of buyers who wanted a mid size truck looked at the Frontier and were immediately turned off because it was so outdated. The interior in particular did not do it any favors (mid-00s Nissan interiors were horrible). By 2018/2019 when the competition had all had major improvements and a bunch more competitors entered the market (especially the Ranger coming back and the Gladiator coming out), I'm surprised that previous generation Frontier sold any units.
Drzhivago138@reddit
The previous-gen Frontier ended up becoming in the 2010s what the Ranger was in the 2000s: the most outdated of the segment, but it did have some following because of that.
Hunter-Mood991@reddit
Much better truck than the Tacoma for sure, never liked the Tacoma it’s cheap and has no power. FRONTIER FOR SURE YOU MADE A GOOD CHOICE.👍
DudeWhereIsMyDuduk@reddit
As someone who might've cross-shopped it, a mark against it was the relative lack of an aftermarket in the US compared to the Navara globally.
I rented a current gen PRO4X last summer, so I can confidently say that I might be in one if it had a manual transmission. People have been throwing Titan front axles on it and running 35s, it's a capable platform.
Musketeer00@reddit
I have a 22 SV and the only problem with it is the radio head unit is outdated garbage out of a 2007 Infiniti.
KUweatherman@reddit
Because they’re not great trucks. We dropped a traffic cone in the bed of our Frontier at wirk…and the bed dented. 😂
DoubleTime53@reddit
Methinks it's because the Ford Maverick steps on its toes a little bit. Though it's a little less capable than a Frontier, it does tend to be a little bit cheaper and it's a similarly sized vehicle with a bed to throw stuff in.
Shmokesshweed@reddit
Every single O'Reilly's around me has at least one Maverick parked next to their older Frontiers. Double the mileage for essentially the same exact functionality.
Jack_of_MostTrades@reddit
Our O'reilly store has both 2023 Frontier extended cabs and Maverick. The Maverick has a 4.5' bed and SAGS when you load a 55 gal barrel of fluid in it. Frontier 6.5' bed is much more usable, has an actual shifter, and only gets ~ 3 MPG less than the Maverick. The Frontiers will scoot, too! Almost too much torque in some situations, especially on damp roads. Getting in and out of the Maverick is also a pain, as the floor is about 5" below door sills, as well. Even for stripper models, both are fairly wellequipped with MORE than desired, but everything can be shut off if you want. Auto start-stop has to be turned off every time you start, though.
Shmokesshweed@reddit
Yeah, it'll definitely sag with that much in the bed. There are certain situations where the Frontier is better.
I'm surprised they didn't go with hybrids. I think the ones near me are but not 100% sure.
JaredGoffFelatio@reddit
If you don't need to tow anything super heavy, definitely. The frontier can tow quite a bit more.
thefanciestcat@reddit
The old Frontier was allowed to age for too long and it hurt the brand, and IIRC Nissan made the strange choice of putting the newer 3.8 in the last (last two?) years of the old Frontier so they couldn't even market the new truck as having a new engine.
Just more Nissan own goals IMO because it's a perfectly good truck. Although, more recently, the continued existence of Nissan hasn't been the sure thing it used to be. That makes it feel like a riskier purchase.
Educational_Age_1333@reddit
You're hitting on something that no one else is really talking about this thread and that's that a lot of American truck buyers want to buy an American truck.
Jack_of_MostTrades@reddit
That's made in Canada or Mexico....Nissan and Toyota BOTH have US plants ( so they don't pay "chicken tax"). Just NOT Unions in them......
Big_Foot_9695@reddit
That would be a good argument if the Tacoma hasn't dominated the mid-size truck market for nearly 20 years. The mid size segment is not US manufacturer territory.
Educational_Age_1333@reddit
It is a good argument because the Tacoma is the same price range as full size pick ups like the F-150 and a Silverado. Which, as an expert in the truck market, you know dwarfs midsize truck sales.
TubaCharles99@reddit
Because it's a Nissan. They're somewhat the hidden gems of trucks. Even older Xterras and such you can get with a ton of features for less than your beat up 4 runner. Granted you do give up some things but I know plenty with high miles and that love them
baummer@reddit
Big and ugly
K57-41@reddit
It 100% should be. It isn’t because it’s too logical.
Same reason why more people don’t buy the Ridgeline. The Frontier and the Ridgeline (shoutout to the Maverick as well) should be able to cater to 90% of truck buyers depending if you need a body on frame or unibody.
N0Name117@reddit
The only redeeming quality of the Ridgeline is the ride and if we're honest, it really isn't that much better of a ride than most body on frame truck these days either. Compared to midsize trucks it's overpriced and has reduced capabilities. Compared to full size, it offers very little price savings for massive reduced capabilities and marginal size benefits. The fuel economy also isn't great compared to either segment.
Really is no wonder why it doesn't sell.
LaserJaguar@reddit
I checked out a Nissan Frontier when I was car shopping. It felt small inside, the back seats were barely usable for adults, it cost $50,000, and I don't trust Nissan like I do Honda.
LOL_YOUMAD@reddit
I work with a few guys that picked these up and I’m in the market for a smaller truck as well and this is a heavy consideration vs the Tacoma trd off road iforce max. All of the review videos I have watched has the Nissan as the better buy, though it’s hard to find anything comparing the similar priced versions, it’s often the trd off road pro for like 65k vs the Nissan for 45k.
For me what is keeping me hesitant on the Nissan is the v6 and the steering as well as aftermarket support and the questionability of Nissan staying around and finally the resale value down the road (tacomas with 150k miles are still like 25-30k where the Nissan at 150k I expect to be a 10k vehicle).
I do not care for the v6 as I’d like more power for day to day driving but it’s a reliable engine. The steering I could live with but it felt heavy when I tried one of their trucks.
I am not sure yet which path I will decide on, almost every review likes the Nissan better but like I said, it’s hard to find a comparable priced option being tested. The Nissan is reliable and people seem to love them, I like the Tacoma looks, power, and resale more. Think I’ll have to just try them both on the same day or something
luke10050@reddit
You guys don't get anything by Isuzu do you? A D-Max with a tune isn't a bad car.
dontdoxmebro@reddit
Isuzu dominates the small cab-over commercial truck market with the vehicles such as the NPR and NQR, but they haven’t sold any passenger vehicles in the US and Canada in quite some time.
luke10050@reddit
Ah, that's a shame. Their dual cab utes are actually extremely reliable. Only diesel in a car I haven't seen break after being put through daily abuse as a fleet car.
The older ones were built like pieces of industrial equipment. I've got an old TFS77 Rodeo that has 350k km on the clock and looks like it'll do another 350k km. Japanese built and honestly stupid reliable.
d0ugfirtree@reddit
The older Isuzu D-max's were the Chevy Colorados we got here in the states. We don't get anything like the current ones, Isuzu is entirely a commercial truck brand here.
thefranchise31@reddit
That V6 makes 300+ horsepower. I don't know how much more you'd need for day-to-day driving.
Barson_Crandt@reddit
Where are you where a 150k mile Tacoma is a $25k-$30k vehicle? Around me, that’s a $12-$15k truck lol
LOL_YOUMAD@reddit
Midwest, prices are wild. You are better off buying a new one over a 3-4 year old one which dealers have for the same price as new pretty much too. These things hold their value like crazy here while most other brands are really cheap 5-10 years later like you’d expect
giantbabyfern@reddit
Those sound like Colorado prices to me, see that pretty regularly around here. Basically makes no sense to me to buy a used Tacoma unless you travel out of state.
Barson_Crandt@reddit
After further searching I do see some with that kind of mileage priced almost that high as long as they’re like a ‘22 model that’s just be loaded up with miles. Can’t imagine spending that kind of money on a truck that’s halfway to 300k, regardless of the badge lol
giantbabyfern@reddit
Right, and that people are apparently buying them at or near those prices is insane to me.
Missus_Missiles@reddit
What prompted you to get rid of the Colorado?
ohwell_______@reddit (OP)
Rear main seal leak
Missus_Missiles@reddit
Oof. Sorry
Uncle_Pulltab@reddit
What do you mean it's not popular?
They're absolutely everywhere here in NH.
Riverrattpei@reddit
They're the only midsize whose sales are down compared to last year and the Colorado and Tacoma outsell it by a lot
neanderthalensis@reddit
Competition does better. I'm actually considering a midsize truck and the Frontier doesn't even register after the Ford Ranger Raptor, Toyota Tacoma and GMC Canyon.
AwardImmediate720@reddit
I see quite a few of them. Not as many as Tacomas but that's also because they're not there to be seen, they're there to be used. They're the thinking-man's midsize pickup, not the "parking lot poser's" truck.
The reason you see them sitting on lots is because everything's sitting right now. Interest rates are high which means financing a vehicle is hard. It's not 2022 (when I bought mine) where you can literally get 0% APR and have them all but pay you to take the truck.
LS3sx@reddit
I love 90s Nissans. The millennium happened and they forgot how to build a cool car. Nothing sounds worse than a VQ engine, CVTs suck, and they ran the same GTR for 18 years…
FurriousKittens@reddit
I’ll say a few things about why truck people don’t really pick this one up over the twins, Ranger, or Tacoma. I test drove all the trucks granted after I picked up my Ranger. I think out of all of them, the frontier will be a more reliable truck and it’s not even close.
The 9 speed is decent, but the v6 lacks low end torque like the smaller turbos trucks have. It’s not a difficult truck to drive, but compared to the others it feels slow off the line. I’d think towing would be pretty rough with it too compared to the smaller turbo trucks.
The biggest complaint I had for it (was a deal breaker) is the rear seating. The way the seats are shaped and the angle of the back rest being near vertical makes it nearly impossible to sit back there for over an hour. Compared to the Ranger and GM twins they are so much more usable and it’s not even close. Tacoma has its issues but the lastest truck addressed their terrible seating from before…Nissan rear seating is just straight mean to stick someone back there.
The PRO-x version of the truck is no where near as capable as the raptor/zr2/TRD pro version out there. Essentially no hype to their truck, yes it’s perfectly capable, as my FX4 Ranger is, but doesn’t generate the interest as the alternatives do.
My view as a mid size truck shopper. When they release the xterra, I’d probably buy it though as the rear seating was why I didn’t pick up the frontier.
TheAppropriateBoop@reddit
i think the reason is the build quality
Tough_Steak@reddit
1) The average car buyer is usually led to believe that every Nissan is a ticking time bomb with a CVT.
2) Wasn't advertised as aggressively as say the Tacoma, Ranger, or Colorado.
3) Up till recently Frontiers have had very little aftermarket support compared to it's competitors.
an_actual_lawyer@reddit
The average car buyer has no idea what a CVT is. Hell, half of car buyers only vaguely know what a transmission is.
Tough_Steak@reddit
Which adds to thepoint. The decision is usually influenced by either brand reputation or word-of-mouth, both of which are generally not in favor of Nissan.
Po_TheTeletubby@reddit
Shhhhh I’m on my second frontier and get them way under sticker. Don’t let the Toyota lemmings jack up the prices.
Mathmk7r@reddit
I think it's a good truck, but here in Canada it's the same price as the tacoma. So in the end i think people choose the safe bet and go with toyota.
ImHealingU@reddit
The new Tacoma has come back around in favor as people notice them and like how they look and drive more. The Colorado has gotten quite popular in the last year or so and a comparable Colorado is not really different at all from a Frontier besides being a bit nicer, newer, and faster at the same price so people choose it. Plus, Frontier production was decreased for cost savings at the end of last year and probably hasn’t increased since then.
man__i__love__frogs@reddit
Really? I thought it was the opposite with the issues plaguing the new Taco and 4Runner, too much plastic cladding, price increase after price increase. And stuff like Toyota putting in Hybrid systems that don't increase fuel economy since they just maintain lugging the extra battery weight around.
They should be making simplistic series hybrid systems like Honda where the engine is just a generator to power the body and therefore the components end up being much more reliable.
ImHealingU@reddit
As far as I’m aware they infrequently have reliability issues with their hybrids or their turbo 4’s. The non hybrids sell more units anyways. The price increases are ridiculous but Toyota people will pay it. Series hybrids are less efficient at highway speeds for long straights as well as not being as efficient for larger vehicles.
Windows-XP-Home-NEW@reddit
I completely agree. I love the new Frontier. I think it’s the best small truck on the market hands down, not even a competition. Tacoma is vastly overrated and overpriced now, and ugly as well to be honest.
Bosfordjd@reddit
It wasn't redesigned for 16yrs, so it was "old" and the interior was dated. Personally I love the interior of the last Gen because it's durable AF and easy to clean.
The current drivetrain is already 5yrs old, they put it in the last 2yrs of prior gen, and the frame etc is basically the same. So 3.8 has already been pretty reliable. The last few years of prior gen actually had record sales because the price wasn't bloated and the trucks were mostly bullet proof. But they also didn't exactly have mass appeal since they didn't come with a ridiculous over styled and bloated front end every truck suffers from now, or a ridiculous ride and bed height that's popular.
I wasn't looking for a frontier when I bought my 2007 in 2014 with 27k miles on it. I was looking for a beater ranger just for weekend projects, but they were ridiculously priced even with 150k+ on the odo. So for around 2x as much as beat to shit ranger I got a 4x2 fully loaded long wheel base frontier that I've driven for 140k miles and only pay $85/mo to insure WAY above minimum coverages and haven't had a car payment in almost 10yrs.
man__i__love__frogs@reddit
I agree with this. I own a 2019 Frontier Pro4x, it was $7-10k CAD cheaper than an equivalent year Taco, but rust kills all vehicles here, even Tacomas, so the newer the vehicle, the better the buy.
The fact that the 2019 was the same tech as 05 is a selling point to me, but it's not how you generate new interest in the lineup lol.
potatoboy247@reddit
because the new one is ugly as sin
Super_Baime@reddit
My buddy finally gave up on his old rusted out Tacoma, and he bought a new Frontier. Just like you.
I have a 2020 Colorado, and it has been a great truck so far. Not one issue.
Good luck with your new truck.
MrPsychoanalyst@reddit
Im sold!
TSLAog@reddit
Nissans get a bad rap. Sure the CVTs were junk, but the other models are actually quite nice.
My friends have a Nissan Ariya and it’s legit as nice as a Lexus RX.
My 2018 Nissan Leaf has been flawless for 72K miles.
V8-Turbo-Hybrid@reddit
No much battery degradation ? Most EV buyers didn't want to look these old Leaf hatchback because old Leafs come with terrible cooling design.
TSLAog@reddit
2018 and newer have a vastly improved chemistry and a larger battery allowing heat to dissipate easier. Using LeafSpy (3rd party diag system) my battery is at 94.7% last I checked.
nicholt@reddit
In Canada I definitely see way more new frontiers than Tacoma's. I think they look really great and I imagine they are actually a pretty good truck. Despite the Nissan hatred. Imo dodge is so much worse than Nissan it's not even close, yet people are still comparing the two.
dsquared45@reddit
I’m happy to read this review because I really like the current Frontier. I’m not exactly in the market for a mid-size truck, but I would be lying if I said I didn’t window shop Pro4x Frontiers semi-regularly. Enjoy your truck!
Particular-Wind-609@reddit
I looked at Frontier but ultimately went with the Ranger. I think they all have issues today but Frontier is a good looking truck imo
Jlx_27@reddit
Its a Nissan.
jmardoxie@reddit
The new Tacomas have 4 cylinder engines. Frontier still has a 6 if that makes a difference.
peakdecline@reddit
Because it's not well assembled and it feels outdated in numerous important ways. Be they capability, driving and handling, or technology.
The sales accurately reflect it's reality, meanwhile Reddit give mind comments just reflect "muh NA V6."
HeshootsHescores88@reddit
Personally, it was the dealers. I tried to buy one from 3 different local dealers and every time it was a horrible experience. Outrageous “mandatory” fees, shady salespeople, and ludicrous financing rates.
I really liked the truck and it fit my needs but I was so frustrated by the whole ordeal I took my business elsewhere.
spongebob_meth@reddit
I would have loved to buy a new frontier instead of a Tacoma, but the jerks stopped putting manual transmissions in them a few years ago. Toyota it is. I'll admit Tacomas are overpriced and overrated. They have average reliability for a truck.
MrKayfabe@reddit
I've been driving a frontier as a rental for the past 6 weeks. I agree 100 percent. To the point that I'm considering one for a next vehicle - really surprised how much I like it.
Very simple car - big n/a V6, torque converter auto, hydraulic steering. Drives like you expect it to - no weird throttle or brake pedal behavior like I experience in other new cars. No auto start/stop. Very durable interior. Like you said, only the tech you want - auto sensing wipers, heated cloth seats, big screen for car play/Android Auto.
degggendorf@reddit
I felt both those things when I drove a Frontier. Weird power surges when shifting, and brakes that felt like they didn't want to stop the truck.
Risen_Warrior@reddit
That's exactly why I bought my 2022 Frontier. Old school truck with only the modem tech I actually want.
LuminousNoodle@reddit
Owned a 2010 for a while, and I agree with everything here except the brakes. They always feel "soft" compared to most cars, and I tried to diagnose/fix it for years, but apparently that's just a result of the design. It's possible they fixed it on the newer gen though.
ruraljurorrrrrrrrrr@reddit
My dad had a titan and the brakes were hilariously bad.
degggendorf@reddit
For me, because it was absolutely awful to drive and has terrible fuel economy.
The Maverick was cheaper, more comfortable, and uses way less gas.
droid6@reddit
That truck is the the worst in the category.
OldRed91@reddit
I'm just here to say that I think the Frontier is excellent and underrated. Easily better than the Ranger or Colorado in my opinion.
jrileyy229@reddit
Used from the factory? What does that mean?
Devious_Bastard@reddit
MorpheusHe’sBeginningToBelieve.gif
Jaymez82@reddit
I didn’t look at the current generation of Frontier but the last one was around for something like 15 years and it barely saw any improvements.
Each time I have looked at Nissan trucks, I’ve been unimpressed. I don’t mind Fisher Price quality plastics in my interior and every Frontier I looked at made them look like an upgrade.
They were also near the bottom of the pack when it came to fuel efficiency.
kdesu@reddit
Because the frontier is the truck for old men cruising in the left lane at 55 mph.
In all seriousness, Nissan is not a brand that most people willingly go to. They buy Nissan because the cars are dirt cheap and they cater to buyers with super low credit scores. Nissan is the brand for people who think "All new cars are shit, so I might as well buy the cheapest shitmobile I can find."
Self-MadeRmry@reddit
For me personally I think it’s the least attractive truck in its class, which is a shame because I see the value in it
meuria132@reddit
because nissan's only good points are their AC's. everything else is sub-par compare to other japanese brand
Joneywatermelon@reddit
I had a frontier pro 4x that was great. No issues at all and the v6 had plenty of power. Terrible MPG though. 15 around town vs 20 in the f150 i drive now.
GT3Racer@reddit
I'm actually planning on buying a Pro4x. It's ticks all the boxes for me and the price is fine with me. I've seen a good amount of newer ones on streets in AZ. I have no need for a full size truck and the Tacoma is stupidly expensive
4o4_0_not_found@reddit
Nissan earned their reputation making dollar store vehicles
chlronald@reddit
It does everything for me except no lane keep control
ScorpionT16@reddit
For me it was the simple fact that steering wheel doesn't even telescope out. Making it uncomfortable and cheap as heck for the price vs the competitors
DodgerBlueRobert1@reddit
They fixed that last year for MY2025.
ohwell_______@reddit (OP)
If it helps you reconsider, mine has a telescoping wheel. I believe 25 was a mid generation refresh, and this is one of the things they've added.
jamesgilboy@reddit
It's mostly the name recognition of the Tacoma and Nissan failing to update the Frontier for the longest time—momentum. IMO the Frontier is a considerably better truck for most drivers; it has better seats, more coherent styling, better handling, and a simpler drivetrain. But it does get awfully bouncy off-road due to the lack of sway bar disconnect, and the lack of a hybrid option is now kind of a weakness.
Educational_Age_1333@reddit
I had a similar experience with the new pathfinder. I looked at traverse z71, telluride xpro, pilot trail sport and I could not justify the 50-55k price tag when the Pathfinder Rock Creek has 90% of the amenities and capabilities for 38k.
I fell for the Toyota premium price tag on a hybrid case RAV4 and it was the worst vehicle I've ever owned from a build quality perspective. So far the Pathfinder has been flawless and I actually enjoy driving it compared to the pure appliance feeling of the RAV4.
Otherwise_Rub_4557@reddit
Nissian sold millions of Frontiers and X-Teras. When is last time you saw one on the road.
Educational_Age_1333@reddit
This is always a criticism with Nissan side by side with the rhetoric of altimas falling apart and 10+ years old clapped out and still on the road.
ChaLenCe@reddit
Today, saw both.
printaport@reddit
It's a Nissan.
gooneryoda@reddit
Nissan is a financial company that happens to make vehicles now. Been than way since 2005. Their models go through much longer cycles than most other brands as a result of lower investments in R&D. The D41 platform will probably be around for at least 15-years unless something dramatic happens to the company for better or worse.