Nissan's coarse 2.4-liter twin-cam four-cylinder engine does not have enough get-up-and-go for even base model 2WD regular cabs. However, manual-transmission clutch and shift actions are light and smooth and the automatic shifts crisply and kicks down quickly for more passing power. The new V6 engine made available for 1999 brought a welcome power boost for 4x4s, but was needed almost as much in 4x2 models. Though stronger than a 4 cylinder, however, the V6 engine still is less robust than most rivals. The Supercharged V6 introduced in 2001 gives Frontier a needed shot in the arm, even though it feels little faster than the top V6s in most rival compact pickups. A 4x4 King Cab V6 with manual shift took a leisurely 11.2 seconds to hit 60 mph, while the Supercharged V6 with automatic did 0-60 mph in an estimated 9.2 sec. Ride and handling are strong points, both ranking with the best small pickups. Bumps are taken in stride, and there's only moderate body lean in corners. Stopping power is only adequate with rear-only antilock braking, but swift and stable with the all-wheel system. Beware of the optional Off-Road Package, which makes the going a lot bouncier. Frontier has a fresh, carlike interior. That's pleasing, but the old-fashioned pull-out, umbrella-style hand brake is not. In addition, the automatic transmission's column-shift lever interferes with wiper stalk and climate controls. Climate and radio controls are mounted high, and within easy reach. All told, the interior design is far more modern than that of Nissan's previous pickup. Front head and leg room are generous for even 6-footers. As in every other extended-cab compact pickup, the King Cab's jump seats are child size. Crew Cabs, added for 2000, maneuver just as easily as King Cab models. The Crew Cab's aft entryways are quite narrow, and there's little leg room ahead of the hard back bench unless a front seat is shoved far forward. Entry/exit is good to the front, and 4WD Frontiers do not have as high a step-in as some competing 4x4 models. Interiors use plenty of hard plastic. All but the base 2WD model have front-door map pockets. Cloth trim on seats and door panels is more upscale than in the typical compact pickup.

Value for the Money
Neither the brawniest nor the most refined compact truck of them all, Frontier is still worth a close look. If the truck you find fits your needs, Frontier rates among the better small pickups.