Specials & Features

The Nissan Frontier is 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 redesigned 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. TruckXcessory.com writes, "This new truck offers more of everything truck users and truck lovers want: lots more power, more room; great off-road potential, and more utility, all wrapped up in a more luxurious package."

For all its good points, some reviewers note room for improvement. The Washington Post says the Frontier "handles ponderously -- like a truck," while others complain of cheap-feeling cabin materials. All in all, the majority agrees that these are minor hang-ups for such a quality pickup.

The 2008 Nissan Frontier gets good scores for value over time, and Car and Driver states that even loaded down with options, the Frontier was "cheaper than the bare-bones Dakota." IntelliChoice has not yet rated the 2008 Nissan Frontier, but for 2007 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. Other Frontier trims receive "Better Than Average" and even "Excellent" value ratings, based on the total cost of ownership compared to others in its class.

The 2008 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. For 2008, few changes were made to the Frontier, but some optional features were added.

Frontier Performance - 8.2 (Very Good)
The 2008 Nissan Frontier tops its class in performance, thanks to ample power and good utility. Four Wheeler notes, "This is an amazingly nimble package for a pickup … the awesome drivetrain leaves the competition and some larger trucks in the dust."

Frontier Exterior - 7.9 (Good)
The 2008 Nissan Frontier's appealing exterior leads the compact pickup rankings. According to the Washington Post, the Frontier "has the demeanor of a physically fit young man who as enough money, time and sense of adventure to do and go where he wants when he wants."

Frontier Interior - 7.2 (Good)
The four- or five-seat 2008 Nissan Frontier has a stylish and comfortable cabin, but is in need of an upgrade for quality. The Frontier receives its lowest scores for its interior, and places toward the middle of its class.

Frontier Safety - 7.9 (Good)
The 2008 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."

Frontier Reliability - NA
We are still compiling data on the 2008 Frontier's predicted reliability. However, Nissan provides a limited warranty for the first three years or 36,000 miles.

Nissan Frontier Specifications
Engine
3.3L displacement single overhead cam (SOHC)
V6 cylinder configuration gas engine
12 valves supercharger
231 ft-lbs. @ 2800 rpm premium unleaded fuel

DriveTrain
5-speed manual transmission rear wheel drive
rear limited slip differential
Suspension
front independent suspension front and rear stabilizer bar
Instrumentation
tachometer clock
display external temperature low fuel level warning
compass

Exterior Features
Tires and Rims
alloy rims 17 x 7 in. rims
P265/55R17 tires all season tires
fullsize reduced spare tire steel spare wheel
underbody mounted spare tire
variable intermittent wipers privacy glass
Exterior Features
skid plates
Truck Features
side-impact door beam

Safety Features and Ratings
ventilated front disc / rear drum brakes 4-wheel ABS
passenger airbag deactivation switch front seatbelt pretensioners
child seat anchors 2 front headrests
front fog lights
Comfort and Convenience Features

Front Seats
4 person total seating capacity bucket front seats
cloth upholstery height adjustable driver seat
driver seat with adjustable lumbar support

Rear Seats
jumpseats

Power Features
remote power door locks power windows
power mirrors

Convenience
cruise control power steering
tilt-adjustable steering wheel audio and cruise controls on steering wheel
front cupholders front door pockets
front 12v power outlet(s) front console with storage

Comfort
air conditioning front reading lights
passenger vanity mirror leather-wrapped steering wheel
leather trim on shift knob cargo area light

In Car Entertainment
AM/FM in-dash 6 CD player stereo 100 watts stereo output
7 total speakers mast antenna.