2020 Nissan Frontier Review
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2020 Nissan Frontier Review
byMark Takahashi
Correspondent
Mark Takahashi has worked in the automotive industry since 2001. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Mark has also contributed to Motor Trend, Auto Aficionado, Chevy High Performance and several motorcycle magazines in various roles. Mark is also a juror on the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards and can be seen regularly on the Edmunds YouTube channel and sometimes representing the company in media interviews.
Pros
- New 3.8-liter V6 packs plenty of punch
- The Pro-4X model is a capable off-roader
Cons
- Doesn't steer or handle with confidence on pavement
- Fuel economy lags far behind rivals
- Uncomfortable crew-cab rear seats have tight legroom
- Interior materials look and feel cheap
What's new
- All-new 3.8-liter V6 with 310 horsepower replaces previous engines
- New V6 is paired exclusively with new nine-speed automatic transmission
- Push-button start and redesigned center console
- Part of the second Frontier generation introduced for 2005
Overview
The Nissan Frontier is a midsize pickup that competes with trucks such as the Ford Ranger and the Toyota Tacoma. This current-generation truck is quite old — its last full redesign was during the second George W. Bush administration — but it is getting a few updates for 2020.
The most important development is that Nissan has outfitted the 2020 Frontier with a new 3.8-liter V6 engine making 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. This V6 is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission that's similar to the one in its Titan and Titan XD full-size trucks. The combination replaces both previously available powertrains in the Frontier, a weaker 4.0-liter V6 and four-cylinder paired to a choice of two manual transmissions or a five-speed automatic.
Inside, the Frontier is a throwback in more ways than one. Compared to other midsize trucks, it has a rudimentary interior with limited small-item storage. It feels well built — there are tight panel gaps, and our test truck didn't have any squeaks or rattles — but none of the interior surfaces feel as if they're made from high-quality materials. What's more, it's missing many of the modern amenities that are either standard or optional on competitors. Looking to get a truck with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility, multiple USB ports and adaptive cruise control? You're out of luck here.
Overall, the 2020 Nissan Frontier isn't as appealing as its rivals. The new V6 engine is nice, but there are too many other drawbacks compared to the Chevrolet Colorado, Honda Ridgeline, Jeep Gladiator and Tacoma. The main reason to consider the Frontier is if you're simply looking for an inexpensive, no-frills midsize truck.
Edmunds Expert Rating
below avg
6.6/10
Edmunds Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Engine performance, thanks to the Frontier's newest 3.8-liter V6, is pleasing. Unfortunately, technology features, towing and hauling capabilities, on-road comfort and overall refinement are still way behind segment standards. There are simply too many drawbacks compared to other top rivals. The main reason to consider the Frontier is if you're simply looking for an inexpensive, no-frills midsize truck.
Rated for you by America's best test team.
Which Frontier does Edmunds recommend?
We think the SV is the best all-arounder of the Frontier's lineup. It gives you the most flexibility for configuration (it's the only trim to offer the 6.1-foot cargo bed, for instance) and it's more affordably priced than the decked-out Pro-4X.
2020 Nissan Frontier models
The 2020 Nissan Frontier is available in King Cab (extended cab) or four-door crew-cab body styles in S, SV and Pro-4X trim levels. The standard bed length is 5 feet; Nissan offers a 6.1-foot bed for the crew-cab SV. All Frontiers are powered by a 3.8-liter V6 (310 horsepower, 281 lb-ft of torque) that's connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and four-wheel drive is an option.