2007 Nissan Frontier Review

The Frontier pickup truck originally debuted for 1998. It was Nissan’s first new pickup design in a decade and the first to actually have a model name. A four-door crew cab model was introduced for 2000, and the exterior was restyled in 2001. The second generation debuted for 2005.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Nissan Frontier is a tough, efficient mid-size truck. More than capable on or off the road, Nissan created a real winner with its drivetrain. Unfortunately, the competition hasn’t been asleep at the wheel, and you can find more features and payload capacity for less.

What’s New For 2007:

The crew cab is available with a long bed. Also standard is a passenger seatbelt light, auxiliary input jack, and improved emissions. The CD changer is now MP3 compatible.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Frontier 3 stars for overall mechanical quality and 4 stars for overall design quality. The original Frontier was nearly flawless, only having early issues with engine noise. However, it was recalled eight times. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Frontier earned 4 stars in government frontal tests and 5 stars in side tests. The IIHS gave it a “Good” rating for frontal impacts and “Poor” in rear tests. Anti-lock brakes come standard. Side airbags are optional. A traction package is available on the LE and Nismo trims that offers hill assist and stability control.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Capable off-road
+ Elegant interior
+ Good fuel efficiency

Cons
– Poor value
– Underwhelming payload capacity
– Lacking in safety features

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Chevrolet Colorado LT1 costs $1,100 less, and adds a CD player, AC, 30 more hp, and more payload capacity. The Ford Ranger Sport short bed costs the same, but offers a V6, CD player, AC, and more payload capacity. However, it gets slightly worse gas mileage. The Toyota Tacoma l4 costs $1,000 less, has a standard automatic, CD player, and more payload capacity.

What Others Are Saying:

“The Frontier isn’t the biggest or baddest truck on the road, but it’s a muscular middleweight.” – U.S.News & World Report

“With solid engineering and an enhanced feature set, Nissan’s new Frontier presents a formidable challenge to the Tacoma’s primacy in the midsize pickup realm.” – Automobile Magazine

“Nissan has sold small pickups in the USA 40 years or so. That enormous experience, coupled with Nissan’s innovations and big-truck ruggedness, make Frontier a likely candidate for the small-truck crown.” – USA Today

Read more about the 2007 Nissan Frontier at the Nissan manufacturer web site.