2026 Nissan Frontier

2026 Nissan Frontier Review
Pros
- Smooth ride quality
- Stable and secure handling
- Helpful storage spaces for small items
Cons
- Odd layout of some controls and on-screen menus
- Steering is overly heavy
- Less rear seat space than other midsize crew-cab trucks
What's new
- No significant changes expected for 2026
- Part of the third Frontier generation introduced for 2022
Overview
When the 2026 Nissan Frontier arrives in dealers, don't expect there to be much, if anything, different from what you'll find for 2025. The Frontier, Nissan's midsize pickup, tends to evolve on more of a geological scale; the previous generation lasted for 16 model years and its frame still underpins today's model. But Nissan did make a few improvements last year. It gave the Frontier updated styling, a big 12.3-inch touchscreen on all but the base trim level, and, wait for it ... a standard telescoping steering wheel. Twenty years too late? Sure, but again, this is the Frontier we're talking about. If anything, we wouldn't be surprised to see a special edition or some minor feature additions for 2026.
Edmunds spotlight: Rare body and bed options
The Nissan Frontier is one of only two midsize pickup trucks that can still be had with a choice of cab style: the extended King Cab or a four-door crew cab. The Toyota Tacoma is the other. Not only that, but they're also the only trucks that give crew-cab buyers a choice of bed length. In the Frontier's case, that means one can pick between the standard length that's a little less than 5 feet long and the 6-foot-1-inch bed that comes standard on the King Cab. The situation is similar with the Tacoma, but the Ford and GM trucks have 5-foot beds only. Whether you're looking to toss lumber in the back or have a surfboard to take to the beach, this can be a big deal.
Competitors to consider
Given its common bed/body combo availability, the Toyota Tacoma is probably the best place to start when looking for a Frontier alternative. The Tacoma was completely redesigned for 2024, and it's doubtful many substantial changes will occur for 2026. The Ford Ranger was also new for 2024 and should similarly receive only minor updates, if any. The Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon were new for 2023, which does increase the possibility that they'll see more substantive updates for 2026.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our Verdict
Performance
Confident handling is another bright spot for the Frontier. The truck feels planted around turns, even with the Pro-4X test truck's all-terrain tires. But the very heavy steering is a head-scratcher. It requires a considerable amount of effort to maneuver the Nissan through a parking lot or over a trail at low speeds. On the upside, the Frontier can take on its fair share of rugged terrain.
Comfort
The climate control system is relatively straightforward to operate and is able to maintain a comfortable temperature on a hot day. But we were disappointed that our Frontier didn't have air vents for rear passengers. We also noticed an excessive amount of wind noise on the highway.
Interior
Rear passengers won't be too happy since the Frontier's rear legroom is definitely on the tight side for adults. Outward visibility is on par for the class. There is an optional surround-view camera system for the Frontier. It can help make parking easier, but the camera views are disappointingly low-resolution and grainy.
Technology
Standard on all Frontiers are driver assist features such as driver attention warning, automatic emergency braking and trailer sway control. We found the systems to work well and they gave no false alerts in our testing.
Towing and Storage
There's ample storage inside the cab thanks to a large tray in front of the shifter, cupholders and the space where the optional wireless charging tray sits. As a bonus, the underarm center console is large enough to hold a couple of water bottles. The door pockets for front and rear passengers are about average size.
Fuel Economy
Value
Wildcard
Which Frontier does Edmunds recommend?
Nissan hasn't released official information on the 2026 Frontier as of this writing. We'll update our recommendation if anything changes, but based on last year's Frontier, we would recommend the SV. Unless you're just looking for a stripped-down truck for business purposes, the SV's power driver's seat and infotainment upgrades are going to be very much appreciated. We would also strongly consider opting for the long-bed option if you're looking to get a crew cab since it provides capability you won't find in most competitors.




2026 Nissan Frontier video
OFF-ROAD BATTLE: Nissan Frontier vs. Toyota Tacoma | Has the Tacoma Met Its Match?
NOTE: This video is about the 2025 Nissan Frontier, but since the 2026 Nissan Frontier is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
Related 2026 Nissan Frontier info
Similar Vehicles
Research more upcoming vehicles
- 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA News
- 2026 Ford Transit Cargo Van News
- 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan News
- 2026 Kia EV9 News
- Lotus Emeya
Shop used vehicles in your area
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- 2025 911
- New Porsche 911
- New Jeep Gladiator
- 2025 Tiguan
- 2024 Nissan Titan
- 2025 Ford Mustang
- 2024 Nissan Rogue
- 2026 BMW M4
- Chevrolet Camaro 2024
- New Honda HR-V
Vehicle rankings by type
- Hybrid Plug In Hybrid SUVs
- Sedan Small
- Best Crossover Rankings
- Best Minivan Rankings
- Best Coupe Rankings
- Best Convertible Rankings
- Hybrid Luxury
- Electric Car Luxury Electric Cars
Other Nissan models to consider
- New Nissan Pathfinder
- 2025 Nissan LEAF
- New Nissan Versa
- New Nissan Altima
- 2024 Truck
- Nissan Murano 2025
- Nissan Armada 2024
- Nissan Murano 2024
- Nissan Sentra 2024
- 2024 GT-R
Research other Trucks
Other models
- Used Pontiac Vibe in Lebanon, NH 2010
- Used Hyundai Ioniq-5-N in Annapolis, MD 2025
- Used Lexus Rz-450E in Delray Beach, FL 2023
- New BMW 8-Series for Sale in Tahlequah, OK
- Used Saab 9-3 in Pleasant Grove, UT 2011
- New Kia Sportage for Sale in Saint Charles, MO
- Used BMW 8-Series-Gran-Coupe in Newark, CA 2026
- Used Saturn L-Series in Olean, NY 2003
- Used Audi Allroad in Poughkeepsie, NY 2017
- Used Buick Encore in Voorhees, NJ 2022