Vehicle Overview
Nissan’s Frontier compact pickup truck comes in King Cab (extended cab) and Crew Cab forms. For 2008, the Frontier remains relatively unchanged except for minor option and feature changes. It is available with a Utili-track system that features movable, heavy-duty tie-down cleats and a spray-in bedliner. Utili-track accessories include sliding trays, bike racks, sliding dividers and modular storage systems. The Frontier is in the same market segment as the Chevrolet Colorado, Dodge Dakota and Ford Ranger.
Both a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that develops 152 horsepower and 171 pounds-feet of torque and a 4.0-liter V-6 that generates 261 hp and 281 pounds-feet of torque are available. For 2008, the SE trim can be ordered with the four-cylinder. Both rear- and four-wheel-drive models are offered. A Nismo package is available that ups the ante for offroad use and includes performance shock absorbers and alloy wheels.
The Long Bed Crew Cab SE and LE models have a bed that is more than 13 inches longer than the standard Frontier Crew Cab. A front passenger seat belt reminder light and auxiliary audio input jack are standard. A King Cab XE Appearance Package includes a chrome front bumper and 16-inch steel wheels.
Exterior
The Frontier is 205.5 inches long overall and uses a 125.9-inch wheelbase. King Cab models are 69.7 inches high, while Crew Cab trucks stand 70.1 inches tall. Both are 72.8 inches wide. Crew Cabs have four conventional front-hinged doors, whereas King Cab trucks have rear-hinged back doors.
Nissan’s Utility Bed package — a protective bedliner — is now standard on Nismo-equipped King Cab Frontiers.
Styling features include a grille with angled chrome inserts and chrome-plated bumpers. Nissan says the Frontier has short front and rear overhangs and large geometric fender flares. A tube-style roof rack can be installed, and wheels as large as 17 inches in diameter are available. Frontiers use a double-wishbone front suspension, rear leaf springs and rack-and-pinion steering.
Interior
Because of its increased exterior dimensions, the Frontier also has grown on the inside. King Cab models get flip-up rear seats. Leather-appointed power seats are available, as are heated seats and mirrors.
Under the Hood
The Frontier’s base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that develops 152 hp and 171 pounds-feet of torque; it has continuous variable valve timing and teams with either a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic. Most trims are equipped with the 4.0-liter V-6, which is rated at 261 hp and 281 pounds-feet of torque. The V-6 can work with either the five-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual. Nissan’s part-time four-wheel-drive system includes a Low range.
Safety
All-disc antilock brakes are standard. Seat-mounted side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags with rollover protection for both rows of seats are optional.
