2001 Nissan Frontier: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A supercharged V6 and leather upholstery are newly available, and all Frontiers get revised styling and a locking tailgate for 2001. Regular-cab models have a 6.5-ft bed, 2-dr extended King Cab models have a 6.2-ft bed, and 4-dr Crew Cabs get a 4.6-ft bed. Regular cabs have 2WD, other Frontiers offer 4WD that must be disengaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. The base engine is a 143-hp 4 cyl. A 170-hp V6 is standard in 4x4s, Desert Runner, and Crew Cabs. SC versions of the King and Crew cabs have a 210-hp supercharged V6, 17-inch wheels, and stiffer suspension. Manual transmission is standard, automatic optional. V6 models have 4-wheel ABS.

COMPETITION

Among compact pickups two vehicles really stand out: The Dodge Dakota and the Ford Ranger (and clone Mazda B-Series). Dakota is the only one to offer a V8 engine and near-full-size cargo and towing capacity. Ranger is the most refined and probably the best daily use vehicle.

This year we are limiting our Recommended choices to the Toyota Tacoma. It's every bit as good as the Ranger in daily use, just a tad more expensive.