The 2025 Nissan Frontier is a versatile mid-size pickup truck that blends rugged capability with practicality. Whether you need a reliable worksite companion or a capable off-road explorer, the Frontier has a configuration to meet your needs. Starting with the base S trim, ideal for work duties, all the way up to the trail-ready PRO-4X, this truck offers a range of features and configurations to suit different missions.
Power and Performance: Strong V-6 Across the Lineup
All 2025 Frontier models are equipped with a 310-horsepower, 3.8-liter V-6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup provides plenty of power for both daily driving and more demanding tasks. The Frontier comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but a four-wheel-drive system is available for those looking to tackle more challenging terrains. Unlike some competitors, like the Honda Ridgeline and Jeep Gladiator, the Frontier offers both extended-cab and crew-cab body styles, the latter of which can be paired with either a five-foot or six-foot bed.
What’s New for 2025: Fresh Looks and Enhanced Features
For 2025, Nissan has refreshed the Frontier with some key updates. The exterior now features a revised grille and front bumper, as well as new wheels for the PRO-X and PRO-4X trims. A bold new paint color, Afterburn Orange, has also been introduced. Inside, drivers will find a larger optional 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with newly standard wireless Android Auto, a 360-degree exterior camera system for better visibility, and more ergonomic features like a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and power lumbar support for the driver’s seat on higher trims. Additionally, the truck’s towing capacity has been increased to 7,150 pounds, making it a capable contender for towing duties.
Trim Levels and Recommendations
The 2025 Frontier is expected to start around $33,000 and can go up to $43,000, depending on the trim and options. The SV trim is often considered the sweet spot for its balance of features and value. Opting for the SV with the crew cab and four-wheel drive provides practicality and comfort. The SV comes with a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Adding the Convenience and Technology packages brings even more features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, heated front seats, a trailer hitch, and a spray-in bed liner—perfect for enhancing both comfort and utility.
Driving Experience: Smooth and Capable
The Frontier’s V-6 engine delivers solid acceleration and smooth operation, making it a reliable choice for a variety of driving conditions. In performance testing, the PRO-4X model went from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds, which is competitive but slightly slower than some rivals like the Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road. The Frontier also benefits from a refined steering system that provides a more responsive and composed driving experience, whether on the highway or on rugged trails. Its off-road capabilities, especially in the PRO-4X trim, make it a solid option for adventure seekers, even if it doesn’t quite match the hardcore off-road performance of a Jeep Gladiator.
Interior and Technology: Comfort Meets Functionality
Inside, the Frontier’s cabin is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. While not as upscale as newer rivals like the Chevrolet Colorado or Toyota Tacoma, the Frontier’s interior still offers soft-touch surfaces and modern features. The available Zero Gravity seats are particularly comfortable for long drives. Interior storage is practical, with compartments on top of the dashboard and under the rear seats. Depending on the cab style, buyers can choose between a five-foot or six-foot bed, providing flexibility for cargo needs.
Infotainment and Connectivity: Modern Tech at Your Fingertips
The Frontier offers a standard 8.0-inch touchscreen, with a larger 12.3-inch screen available on higher trims. Both screens feature user-friendly controls, including physical knobs for volume and tuning, making them easy to use on the go. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, keeping you connected without the hassle of cords. The Frontier also offers options like a Wi-Fi hotspot and a premium nine-speaker Fender audio system for those who want an enhanced entertainment experience.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features: Equipped for Peace of Mind
Safety is a priority in the 2025 Frontier, which comes equipped with Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite of driver-assistance technologies. Standard features include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beam headlights. These features help provide a safer driving experience, whether you’re navigating city streets or rough backroads.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The 2025 Frontier offers decent fuel efficiency for its class, with rear-wheel-drive models rated at 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Opting for four-wheel drive drops these figures slightly to 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. During real-world highway testing, a 2022 Frontier PRO-4X achieved 20 mpg, showcasing its capability to handle long-distance drives efficiently.
Warranty and Maintenance: Competitive Coverage
Nissan provides competitive warranty coverage for the Frontier, including a three-year or 36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, unlike some competitors, Nissan does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance, which is something to consider when comparing options.
The 2025 Nissan Frontier stands out with its combination of rugged capability, practical features, and modern technology. Whether you’re looking for a reliable work truck, a comfortable daily driver, or a capable off-road companion, the Frontier has something to offer. With a range of configurations and options, it’s ready to take on whatever challenges you throw its way.
