2025 Nissan Frontier

The Frontier nameplate first debuted in 1997 and entered its third generation in 2022. Rolling in to 2025 it gets refreshed with enhanced capabilities, new front fascia, increased towing capacity, and more intuitive technology. The Frontier is available in a wide variety of configurations across five primary grades: S, SV, PRO-X, PRO-4X, and SL with either a King or Crew Cab. King Cab models are offered in 4x2 or 4x4 in both S and SV grades. Crew Cabs are also offered in both 4x2 or 4x4 S and SV grades, as well as the PRO-4X (4x4 only), PRO-X (4x2 only), and SL. All crew cabs feature a 5-foot bed except the SV LWB model which features a 6-foot bed. And new for 2025, a 6-ft bed is now available across the Frontier lineup.

 

All Frontiers get the same 3.8L V6 that delivers 310 horsepower and 281 lb. ft. of torque mated to a 9-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. When properly equipped it can tow up to 7,150 pounds (up from 6,720 pounds) and haul up to 1,620 pounds. Prices range from $32,050 for an S King Cab 4x2 up to $45,610 for an SL Crew Cab 4x4 (6’ bed). Competition in the midsize truck class includes the Chevrolet Colorado, Ford Ranger, GMC Canyon, Jeep Gladiator, and Toyota Tacoma. I spent a week in a Frontier SL Crew Cab LWB loaded up with options that came to $47,750... here is what stood out.

 

When it was refreshed a few years ago, the Frontier made a big splash with bold new looks that stood out with a rugged design. Now for 2025, it builds on that tough squared off appearance with a revised front fascia, grille and bumper design. It still has a chiseled hood that sits atop a large squared off grille and headlights. The design evokes both a wider and taller stance. Fenders are enhanced with body cladding and room for upgraded tire sizes. Around the back, Frontier is stamped into the lower half of the tailgate flanked by available LED taillamps. Nissan offers a variety of accessories to make it your own that include a rugged sport bar for the bed, hood graphics, side steps, 17” beadlock alloys (PRO-4X), a bed access package with a rear bumper step, bedliner, and bed tent and more. PRO-X/PRO-4X models also get new wheel designs and an unmissable Afterburn Orange paint for 2025. Regardless of the trim you opt for, the Frontier is also primed for personalization with a solid base design. It's an athletic looking truck that seems to be the perfect size for someone looking in the mid-size segment.

 

New for 2025, the Frontier expands availability of the Crew Cab long-wheelbase configuration from SV to SV, PRO-4X and SL grades. With a 6-foot bed, this caters to Frontier drivers looking to carry larger loads, whether for the job site or weekend hobbies. To securely carry almost whatever driver’s need, Frontier offers a Utili-Track system for its bed with adjustable tie-down cleats, and available spray-in bedliner . The bed also has an available 120-volt power outlet. The longer bed measures 73.3 inches long, 61.4 inches wide, and 19.4 inches deep and between the wheel wells, it’s 44.5 inches wide. The Standard Bed is 59.5 inches long, 61.4 inches wide, and 19.4 inches deep and between the wheel wells, it’s 44.5 inches wide. The difference is significant enough for those using their trucks for hauling. It is also noticeable in the ride as you can feel the extra foot of length when turning and trying to maneuver the long wheelbase Frontier.

 

Frontier also boasts an increased maximum trailering capacity this year of up to 7,150 pounds, enabling more work and adventure. Towing capacities increase by around 500 pounds on all grades and configurations compared to the 2024 Frontier. Payload capacity also sees improvements, with the King Cab SV 4x2 offering up to 1,620 pounds. To assist with towing, the Frontier is equipped with several features that include Tow-Haul Mode which optimizes transmission settings for towing and Trailer Sway Control which helps maintain trailer stability. The Frontier is also equipped with an Intelligent Around View Monitor that provides a 360-degree view to aid in hitching and maneuvering.

 

The same 3.8L V6 that gets 310 horsepower and 281 lb. ft. of torque comes standard in all models. Rear wheel drive is standard, but four-wheel drive is available. It mates to a 9-speed transmission and horsepower is higher than all its core competitors. Acceleration was generally smooth as it went from 0-60 in around 7.4 seconds. However, there were moments in quick changes (up and down) that the shifts were less smooth as it seemed to hesitate looking for the appropriate gear. Handling was appropriate and it's an easy truck to maneuver with minimal body roll at sharp turns. Steering is less nimble, but also sufficient considering it is a truck. The Frontier SL's steering is notably heavy, which can be cumbersome during low-speed maneuvers or tight parking situations. However, this characteristic contributes to a more stable feeling at higher speeds and off-road conditions.

 

It offers a smooth ride with a suspension that absorbs road imperfections. Equipped with 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, the SL trim provides a comfortable ride. The suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections, ensuring a smooth ride on highways and city streets. The updated suspension with hydraulic cab mounts reduces road vibration and new jounce bumpers make it smooth on and off-road. It's much more refined than some competitors that have not been updated in a while. The Frontier feels grounded to the pavement with all four tires and at highway speeds is controlled and never felt loose. The Frontier's turning radius is relatively wide, especially with the 6’ bed, which can make navigating tight spaces challenging. While its handling characteristics may not be as agile as some competitors, its stability and off-road capabilities make it a solid choice for daily driving and light off-road excursions. 

 

Not only does it look ready for the trails, but the Frontier is definitely capable, especially in PRO-4X form. I was fortunate to drive this truck both on and off-road and can testify to its capability. The most capable version is the PRO-4X model which comes standard with a 4-wheel limited-slip differential, hill start assist, hill descent control, an electronic locking rear differential, Bilstein off-road shock absorbers, a front aluminum and three steel underbody skid plates. All combined, this provides a great base for someone looking for an adventure at a price that's lower than the competition. On the off-road course at the Midwest Automotive Media Association Rally, the Frontier navigated through large boulders, steep inclines/declines, and water fording with ease. The standard P265/70/R17 all-terrain tires were sufficient, although meatier off-road tires would certainly improve traction and smoothness. The Off-Road Mode will automatically turn the cameras on inside when the vehicle is in 4LO which provides a full view of the trails and off-road obstacles ahead for optimal off-roading without a spotter. New for 2025 are enhancements to the Intelligent Around View Monitor that make the camera system even more effective. The Off-Road Mode viewing function can now be used while driving at up to 12 mph, covering a greater range of typical technical off-road speeds and helping drivers spot obstacles. One notation to keep in mind if you plan to off-road, is that the Nissan step rails look good on pavement but significantly lower its clearance for off-road. Fortunately, they can be easily removed for an off-road adventure.

 

When the Frontier arrived with a full 21-gallon tank it offered a range of approximately 440 miles. Fuel economy estimates are 17/21/19 MPG city/highway/combined and after a week of driving I averaged 17 MPG. Ratings are slightly better for the rear-wheel drive version but still tend to be below average for the class.

 

Interior improvements for 2025 include comfort enhancements such as a standard telescopic steering wheel and standard two-way power lumbar for the driver's seat on SV grades and higher. The cabin also features soft-touch plastics on the dashboard and an improved fit and finish, addressing previous concerns about interior quality. The Frontier offers improved storage compartments, including a lockable lower glove box, front console storage with a lid, and 32-ounce cupholders, catering to those trendy large water bottles.

 

The cabin of the Frontier offers a respectable amount of space to accommodate up to five passengers in the Crew Cab. King Cab models feature pillarless rear doors with two forward facing "jump" seats for when you need them to accommodate four. Seats are very comfortable and supportive with Nissan's zero-gravity technology that are designed to reduce fatigue and provide optimal comfort. Seat positioning is good and an available power-adjustable driver's seat will aid in finding the perfect position. Both heated seats and steering wheel are also available, as is a power sliding glass sunroof to let the outdoors in. Rear seats comfortably accommodated my three kids with plenty of head and leg room that was on par with a compact crossover. The rear bench seat features a 60/40 split seat that folds to create a flat surface and hidden storage. Interior materials are class appropriate with cloth upholstery standard, but also synthetic and genuine leather available as upgrades. Frontier SL brings a more plush, highly equipped option inside with features including leather-appointed front and rear seating, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, 4-way power adjustable front passenger seat and a Fender Premium Audio system with 10 speakers. All models also come with a sliding rear window and a sunglasses holder in the overhead console. Overall, the inside feels modern without being overly stylized which should align with its target consumers.

 

Technology inside is also enhanced as the SV trims and higher now boasts a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, replacing the previous 9-inch display. Frontier now supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well for seamless smartphone integration. SL trims offer wireless charging with a tray appropriately placed behind the gear shifter for easy access. Also standard on the SL trim is a 10-speaker Fender Premium Audio System that delivers high-quality sound for enhanced in-cabin audio experience.

 

The Frontier is also the first model to get the new Nissan Intelligent Around View Monitor with moving object detection and the aforementioned Off-Road Mode. This monitor provides a great bird's eye view display of the area surrounding the truck for maximum visibility and limits blind spots. Other available features include NissanConnect Wi-Fi Hotspot, navigation, and USB-C charging ports.

 

Nissan Safety Shield 360 Driver Assistance and safety features have been added and enhanced across the board… thank you Nissan. On the 2025 Frontier, numerous driver assistance and safety technologies are now standard across all grades, from S through SL. Those include Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Parking Sensors, High Beam Assist and Intelligent Cruise Control. Frontier SL also features Traffic Sign Recognition and the Intelligent Around View Monitor.

 

Nissan delivered a worthy follow-up in its third generation back in 2022 and they’ve only made it better for 2025. The addition of the more street / luxury SL trim adds to the Frontier’s versatile lineup. I really like the refreshed front fascia that still conveys a rugged vibe. While the Frontier may not be the first truck that comes to mind in this segment, it definitely should be considered. It’s priced competitively and is highly capable across the board. For prospective truck buyers, this one is a must-see.

 

 

Test Vehicle: 2025 Nissan Frontier SL Crew Cab LWB

Exterior Color: Bluestone Pearl

Interior Color: Charcoal Leather Options: Premium Paint ($425), Carpeted Floor Mats ($205)

MSRP as tested: $47,750 (With Delivery/Destination) 

 

Pros: Increased Towing Capacity, Strong V6, Standard Nissan Safety Shield 360, Modern Technology

Cons: Below-Average Fuel Economy, Limited Rear Seat Space, Cabin Noise on the Highway