Small trucks aren’t what they used to be. Many modern pickups boast complex hybrid powertrains and advanced suspension systems, a far cry from the simple workhorses of the past. However, the 2025 Nissan Frontier refreshingly sticks to its roots, offering a straightforward and capable truck that prioritizes function over unnecessary frills. For those seeking a no-nonsense mid-size pickup with a proven V6 engine, the Frontier remains a compelling option, even in an increasingly complex market.
Old-School Charm Meets Modern Needs: The 2025 Frontier Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the 2025 Frontier boasts a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine, a rarity in today’s segment where many competitors have shifted to turbocharged four-cylinders or hybrid options. This robust V6 delivers a solid 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for daily driving and demanding tasks. Unlike some rivals, the Frontier avoids forced induction, offering a more traditional and arguably more reliable powertrain.
Mated to this V6 is a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission. Power is delivered to either the rear wheels or all four wheels depending on the configuration. While it might not offer the immediate low-end grunt of the Toyota Tacoma’s hybrid four-cylinder, the Frontier’s V6 provides plenty of power off the line and maintains strong acceleration at highway speeds. The nine-speed transmission operates seamlessly, ensuring smooth gear changes and optimal power delivery across various driving conditions. For those planning to tow, the 2025 Frontier offers a maximum towing capacity of 7,150 pounds, making it capable enough for hauling boats, trailers, and other recreational equipment.
Ride and Handling: A Truck That Feels Like a Truck
The 2025 Nissan Frontier delivers a ride experience that is unmistakably truck-like. While some modern mid-size pickups like the Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado have prioritized car-like comfort, the Frontier retains a more traditional, rugged feel. Its rear leaf spring suspension contributes to a ride that can be bouncy over bumps and firm on uneven pavement. While not the most plush ride in the segment, this setup provides a sense of robustness and durability that many truck enthusiasts appreciate. It feels like a truck built to work, and its ride quality reflects that.
Handling in the Frontier also leans towards the traditional truck experience. The steering is weighty, requiring deliberate input, and body roll is noticeable in corners. The turning circle is also wider than some competitors, which can make maneuvering in tight parking lots a bit challenging. It’s a truck that feels substantial on the road, reinforcing its robust and capable nature. However, for drivers who prefer a more connected and controlled feel, the Frontier might feel a bit less refined compared to some of its competitors.
Practicality and Versatility: Bed Size Matters
A significant upgrade for the 2025 Nissan Frontier is the expanded availability of the long bed option. Nissan now offers the 6-foot bed on the SL and Pro-4X trims, providing significantly more cargo space compared to the standard 5-foot bed. This longer bed enhances the Frontier’s practicality for work and recreation. Whether hauling construction materials, camping gear, or even larger items like furniture, the 6-foot bed offers greater versatility. The author even mentions easily fitting an 8-foot Christmas tree in the extended bed, highlighting the real-world benefits of this increased cargo capacity.
Interior and Technology: Upgrades in Comfort and Tech
The SL trim of the 2025 Nissan Frontier elevates the interior with added comfort and convenience features. Standard equipment on this trim includes a heated six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a leather-wrapped shifter, and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort in colder climates. Notably, Nissan has finally added a tilting and telescoping steering wheel to the Frontier, a feature that greatly improves driver ergonomics and comfort for a wider range of body types.
The leather seats in the SL trim are well-padded and contribute to soaking up some of the truck’s firmer ride characteristics. The cabin is generally quiet, with engine noise becoming more prominent at higher RPMs, providing a reminder of the powerful V6 under the hood. Technology in the 2025 Frontier sees welcome updates. A prominent 12.3-inch center touchscreen display dominates the dashboard, offering a modern and visually appealing interface. While Nissan’s infotainment system might not be the most cutting-edge in terms of graphics and responsiveness, it is functional and user-friendly. A crisp 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster ahead of the driver provides essential vehicle information in a clear and customizable format. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with Bluetooth, satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a premium 10-speaker Fender audio system on the SL trim, ensuring connectivity and entertainment for occupants.
Pricing and Value: Is the 2025 Frontier Worth It?
The 2025 Nissan Frontier starts at a competitive $33,560 for the base King Cab S model, making it an accessible entry point into the mid-size truck segment. However, the top-of-the-line Crew Cab SL trim with the long bed comes with a significantly higher price tag. The tested model, with options like premium paint and floor mats, reached an as-tested price of $47,750. While the base models offer good value, the higher trims can become quite expensive, approaching the price range of more feature-rich and refined competitors. Potential buyers will need to weigh the Frontier’s strengths – its V6 engine, traditional truck feel, and updated technology – against its price and consider if it aligns with their needs and budget.
Conclusion: A Dependable and Simple Truck
The 2025 Nissan Frontier is a testament to the enduring appeal of simplicity in the truck market. While it may not be the most technologically advanced or the most comfortable truck in its class, it offers a compelling blend of capability, reliability, and value. The addition of the long bed option to higher trims and the welcome inclusion of a tilting and telescoping steering wheel address key shortcomings of previous models. The upgraded technology also brings the Frontier more in line with modern expectations. For buyers seeking a straightforward, dependable mid-size truck with a proven V6 engine and a traditional truck feel, the 2025 Nissan Frontier remains a solid choice worth considering.
