Used 2019 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab
Used Frontier for sale
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Edmunds' Expert Review
byDan Frio
Reviews Editor
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.
Pros
- The Pro-4X model is a capable off-roader
- Available with automatic or manual transmission
Cons
- Doesn't steer or handle with confidence on pavement
- Fuel economy lags far behind rivals' mpg
- Uncomfortable crew-cab rear seats have tight legroom
- Interior materials look and feel cheap
What's new
- Larger 7-inch touchscreen display added to S and SV trims
- Part of the second Frontier generation introduced for 2005
If ever a company subscribed to the product theory that "if it ain't broke, don't fix it," it's Nissan and its 2019 Frontier. This truck hasn't changed in three presidential administrations, not even in the face of renewed competition from rivals such as the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon and Honda Ridgeline. The Frontier lopes along with mechanicals that are more than a decade old. Inside, it's about as utilitarian as you can get, and modern tech is nowhere to be found.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2019 Nissan Frontier SV 4dr Crew Cab 5.0 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 5A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.31 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$216/mo
Frontier SV
vs
$229/mo
Avg. Compact Truck
Changes for 2019 are predictably minimal. The base and next-up trim levels get a larger touchscreen display, and the slick Midnight Edition style package returns for another year. But in just about every other area, the 2019 Nissan Frontier is outdated. The interior, though durable, has a low-buck look and feel. The cabin allows in plenty of noise. The Frontier's engines burn fuel with the abandon of a failed missile test, and technology and advanced safety features are few and far between.
Yet, the Frontier still appeals. It offers a surprisingly comfortable ride, a bed with all manner of useful cleats and tie-downs, and legitimate off-road fun and capability when equipped in the Pro-4X trim. It's also relatively affordable compared to its newer rivals. If you have modest requirements for modern creature comforts in a pickup, the Frontier is still a good deal.
But if you like this kind of no-frills pickup, act soon. A redesigned Frontier is due for 2020 (for real this time, really). And while it's likely to remain a good midsize pickup value, the Frontier will face its stiffest competition yet when a new Jeep Wrangler pickup arrives along with the reintroduced Ford Ranger. The 2019 Frontier could be a good pick for truck shoppers seeking simple utility and fun. But for a more modern take on a midsize pickup, you'll want to look elsewhere.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
6.8 / 10Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Nissan Frontier SV Crew Cab (4.0L V6 | 5-speed automatic | 4WD).
Scorecard
| Overall | 6.8 / 10 |
| Driving | 7.0 |
| Comfort | 7.0 |
| Interior | 7.0 |
| Utility | 7.0 |
| Technology | 6.0 |
Driving
7.0The Frontier's on-road manners aren't that impressive, but it's fun and playful, especially in the dirt. The steering is a little sloppy and the use of the brakes requires some early planning, but the truck's compact size helps make its movements predictable. Engine torque and response are better than in rivals.
Comfort
7.0The Frontier won't win awards for cabin comfort, but it's no penalty box either. Long suspension travel helps absorb most road blemishes without shock and jar, but there's a good bit of ocean-boat float and a tolerable degree of wind noise. The seating is basic but comfortable.
Interior
7.0The interior layout is easy to navigate thanks to the physical controls. No touchscreen menu-diving here. Wide-opening doors and well-placed hand- and footholds make it easy to get in and out. Rear legroom is lacking, so passengers won't want to ride back there too long.
Utility
7.0The Frontier's short bed is a compromise. It's too short for big cargo jobs but it's small enough to increase maneuverability. Bed rails and tie-downs enhance versatility. The flexible rear seating makes for more cargo space in the cabin, but you won't find a lot of room for personal items. It trails the competition in terms of rated payload and towing capacity.
Technology
6.0The Frontier's tech is about as old-school as it gets, with only minimal concession to modern needs. The stereo system is good, the voice controls are basic, and smartphone integration rudimentary. A lack of driver aids probably won't bother many truck buyers, but these features are still conspicuous by their absence.
Which Frontier does Edmunds recommend?
The Frontier's appeal spans from work truck to dirt jumper, so the best Frontier for you depends on your plans. Of the Frontier's five trim levels, we think the Pro-4X is the best all-arounder. A strong V6 peels off loads of low-end torque and its off-road worthiness is nearly equal that of its rivals.
2019 Nissan Frontier models
The 2019 Nissan Frontier is a midsize truck offered in two body styles (extended cab or four-door crew cab) and with 5-foot and 6.1-foot bed lengths. Two engines are available: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder (152 horsepower, 171 pound-feet of torque) or a 4.0-liter six-cylinder (261-hp, 281 lb-ft). Both can pair to either a manual transmission (five speeds for the four-cylinder or six for the V6) or a five-speed automatic transmission.