2007 Nissan Frontier [ 2008 ]
Nissan Frontier
Overall Score - 8.7 (Very Good)
The Frontier offers great off-roading and hauling capabilities and ample power packaged in an attractive exterior, but it doesn't have the quality materials or interior space of some of its competitors. If you're in the market for a compact truck, you should also consider the Toyota Tacoma or Dodge Dakota.
Since its redesign in 2005, the Nissan Frontier has been appreciated as a compact pickup truck with more power for the highway, more utility for hauling and more oomph for off-roading. USA TODAY notices Nissan "seems to have exorcised the rude, crude behavior common to small trucks" with the 2005-2007 models. However, U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman likes that "this is no frumpy grocery getter, though. Nissan has seen to it that the Frontier carries forward the rough and rowdy image" of its platform-mate, the full-size Nissan Titan. Consumer Guide is specific with its praise, stating that the "Frontier carves out a nice niche for itself in the compact-pickup market with a powerful V6 engine, middle-of-the-pack size, and options that appeal to off-road enthusiasts."
For all its good points, some reviewers note room for improvement. The Washington Post complains that the 2007 Frontier "handles ponderously -- like a truck," while Consumer Guide finds "cabin materials predictably workmanlike." Edmunds responds to the Frontier's detractors: "But let's face it: These are minor hang-ups in a truck that's as tough as Texas, especially one that turned the roughest Texas territory into a joyride." Car and Driver thought the problems with the Frontier were so minor that in a 2005 comparison test drive, it placed the Frontier above the Chevy Coloroado, the Dodge Dakota and the Toyota Tacoma.
Reviewers also recognize the 2007 Nissan Frontier as a good value, and Car and Driver states that even loaded down with options, the Frontier was "cheaper than the bare-bones [Dodge] Dakota." IntelliChoice gives both the Nissan Frontier's Crew and King Cab SE models an "Average" value rating, based on total cost of ownership compared to others in its class.
The 2007 Nissan Frontier's two-door King Cab is available in four trims -- the base XE, SE, NISMO (short for Nissan Motor Sports) and LE. The four-door Crew Cab is available in three trims -- the SE, NISMO and LE.
Frontier Performance - 8.2 (Very Good)
Reviewers overlook mediocre handling in favor of the 2007 Nissan Frontier's ample power and good utility. Kelley Blue Book captures consensus, calling it "a truck that hauls, tows and loves to get dirty ... the Nissan Frontier will impress you with its ability, utility and refined ride." continue
Frontier Exterior - 7.9 (Good)
Many find the 2007 Nissan Frontier's exterior appealing, with the Washington Post noting that it "has the demeanor of a physically fit young man who has enough money, time and sense of adventure to do and go where he wants when he wants." continue
Frontier Interior - 7.2 (Good)
Stepping inside the four- or five-seat 2007 Nissan Frontier, many describe the cabin as stylish and comfortable, but in need of an upgrade for quality. Edmunds reports, "Only NBA-size giants would call the new, larger interior cramped ... fit and finish is stellar ... our only complaint with the Nissan Frontier is that every interior panel is made of rock-hard plastic." continue
Frontier Safety - 7.9 (Good)
The 2007 Nissan Frontier does well in federal government crash tests, which auto reviewers such as Newsday say is the result of "about as modern a package of safety features as you'll find in a pickup." continue
Frontier Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2007 Nissan Frontier reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Frontier is covered by a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty. continue
